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There is such a tremendous need for intermediate sanctions because of the current status of the criminal justice system. Jails are overcrowded and the probation system, which is also being pushed to its limits, is not necessarily the right option for all offenders.
The concept of intermediate sanctions offers a wide range of options that can meet the wide-ranging needs of offenders. It is believed that it can help an offender see the seriousness of his or her crime without being incarcerated. It can save a tremendous amount of money. It can be a terrific opportunity to help offenders make amends for their crimes and make some changes without being pulled out of society to be jailed, something that may add to their difficulties upon returning to the community. With intermediate sanctions, offenders could benefit from treatment, support, community service, groups, education, training, etc. and learn the necessary skills that will help them to turn their lives around.
Drawbacks include the fact that a variety of sanctions must be available and the programs running efficiently in order for the idea to be successful. Whether you’re talking house arrest, electronic parole, shock incarceration, boot camps, restitution, or some other sanction, the staff has to be adequate and competent— and this may not always be the case. Lawyers and judges must be able to match offenders with the program that can most successfully meet their needs, which may be difficult. There is also the chance that an offender who is allowed to do intermediate sanctions will take advantage of not being incapacitated and offend again, perhaps more seriously than before. The community could suffer the consequences of that.
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