Thursday, November 20, 2008

Diminution Credits

What are diminution credits?
Diminution credits are mechanism to reduce prison terms. Credits are given as a reward for good behavior and the engagement in activities such as educational programs, special projects and work programs. Each credit reduces prison term by one day.

What’s wrong with diminution credits?
There is no evidence that diminution credits have any effects on successful correction or rehabilitation.

The allocation of credits is plagued with serious errors. An audit from the Office of Legislative Audits in 2004, found that the Department of Corrections misallocated diminution credits in 1/3 of the cases studied. Approximately 78% of these errors were in favor of inmates, with an average early release of 19 days. The average release for offenders serving 10 or more years was even higher (32 days average early release). More importantly, the auditors found lack of documentation for credits received for specific work assignments.

Currently there are no restrictions on credits for individuals convicted of crime in which a firearm was used.

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