Assignment:
Discretionary Parole versus Mandatory Parole?
Sixteen states and the federal government abolished discretionary parole release from prison in favor of mandatory parole. Another four states abolished it for certain violent offenses or other crimes against a person. Proponents of discretionary parole release argue that abandonment of discretionary parole has a detrimental effect. They believe that parole serves a beneficial purpose by requiring inmates to focus their efforts on successful reentry from prison to the community or risk revocation and possible reincarceration. They argue that without the prospect of discretionary parole, inmates have fewer incentives for cognitive transformation and, in turn, opportunities for work, reuniting with families, and finding housing.
Research and include the following in your paper:
1. What advantages and disadvantages would you see in abolishing discretionary parole in favor of mandatory parole? Explain.
2. If you were a state legislator, what advantages and disadvantages would you see in abolishing discretionary parole in favor of mandatory parole? Explain.
Your paper should be submitted in a Word document and include proper incorporation of APA 6th edition format (title page, in-text citations, and a reference page). Your paper should be between 2 to 3 pages in length and should use 12-point, Times New Roman font.