Michigan’s criminal justice system has come under scrutiny for its long sentences and lack of earned-time incentives. The state, known for its progressive policies, has some of the worst carceral instincts and politics in the country. This was highlighted when a colleague and friend of the writer was sentenced to 17 years in prison for possession with intent to deliver cocaine. Despite having strong community support and a history of hard work and volunteerism, he was deemed unworthy of society for over 6,000 days.
Michigan’s high average sentence lengths can be attributed to several factors, one of which is the absence of any ability to earn time off a sentence since 1998. Unlike other states, Michigan does not offer disciplinary or productivity credits, also known as “good time.” This policy was implemented after a 1978 ballot initiative removed most of the state’s good time credits. The 1994 Crime Bill further exacerbated the issue by incentivizing states to adopt “truth in sentencing,” which requires individuals to serve their entire sentence without any possibility of early release based on their behavior or rehabilitation efforts.
The consequences of these policies are dire. Overcrowding, staff shortages, and a pervasive sense of hopelessness have created an apocalyptic environment within Michigan’s prisons. The lack of meaningful activities and opportunities for personal growth has led to increased incidents of violence and substance abuse among incarcerated individuals. The detrimental effects of truth-in-sentencing laws are evident not only from the personal accounts of those inside but also from national public safety experts who recommend the expansion of earned-time incentives to promote rehabilitation and shorten sentence lengths.
Advocates, including those who have been incarcerated themselves, are pushing for the reinstatement of “good time” credits. They argue that hopelessness kills and that providing incentives for good behavior and rehabilitation can create a culture of productivity and reduce recidivism. Stories like that of Shavonne Davis, who has been incarcerated for over 20 years for a home invasion charge despite having a clean record, highlight the injustice of keeping individuals locked up for extended periods without the possibility of early release.
While some states have embraced the research supporting earned-time incentives, Michigan’s policymakers and leading prosecutors remain committed to truth in sentencing. They argue that these policies support victims, but fail to consider the diverse experiences of victims and the statistical overlap between victims and those responsible for crimes. In fact, a comprehensive survey conducted by the bipartisan Alliance for Safety and Justice found that three in four victims support incentive-based policies for individuals to earn time off their sentences.
The consequences of Michigan’s carceral politics extend beyond the prison walls. The state is facing a staffing crisis within its Department of Corrections, with nearly 900 vacancies and high turnover rates. Correctional officers are forced to work under appalling conditions, including mandatory overtime. Michigan also spends the highest percentage of its budget on incarceration, allocating $2.1 billion this year alone. By implementing earned-time credits and reducing inflated sentences, the state could free up funds for other urgent priorities, such as infrastructure updates.
The solution seems clear: policy changes that reduce sentence lengths, improve prison culture and environment, and ultimately decrease the incarcerated population. However, the Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan and Attorney General Dana Nessel continue to oppose these reforms. The writer emphasizes that if those in power experienced the realities of prison firsthand, they would be more inclined to support policies like “good time” credits. It is essential to challenge the prevailing carceral instincts and politics in Michigan and work towards a more just and rehabilitative criminal justice system.
Original Story at www.thenation.com – 2023-09-18 09:21:51
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