Entries in Corrections (2)
AP/Austin American Statesman: U.S. Prison Numbers Up, S.D. Has Largest % Increase
The AP via the Austin American Statesman reports that U.S. prison numbers are up. Read: 7M in U.S. Jails, on Probation or Parole
Interestingly and disturbingly, South Dakota leads the nation in the highest percentage increase in incarceration rates.
Excerpt:
Certain states saw more significant changes in prison population. In South Dakota, the number of inmates increased 11 percent over the past year, more than any other state. Montana and Kentucky were next in line with increases of 10.4 percent and 7.9 percent, respectively. Georgia had the biggest decrease, losing 4.6 percent, followed by Maryland with a 2.4 percent decrease and Louisiana with a 2.3 percent drop
We obviously need to put the really bad people away to protect society. But for many behind bars, drugs and alcohol and mental problems have led them astray. While punishment might make us feel better, it does nothing to get to the root problems of crime and helping individuals become productive citizens.
Jack Billion, in his campaign for governor, had some excellent ideas in this area. I hope our state can give some thought to doing more than simply locking people up.
Todd Epp
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PrintCorrection: Jer Bear First Broke Thune NYC Fundraiser
An alert reader sent the following:
I believe that Jer was the first SD blogger to talk about and post the invitation from the NYC $25,000 fundraiser on May 12th.
http://dontworryaboutthegovernment.blogspot.com/2005/05/senator-thune-to-raise-obscene-amount.html
I had previously reported I broke the story. That was incorrect. I added some additional details, but Jer Bear broke the story. The credit should go to him.
While the Rightwingers might not believe it, S.D. Watch strives for accuracy and to give other media sources their appropriate attribution and recognition.
Jer Bear, my apologies and, as usual, good work!