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Document Type

Thesis

Date of this Version

9-1970

Citation

Thesis (M.A.)—University of Nebraska—Lincoln, 1970. Department of Political Science.

Comments

Copyright 1970, the author. Used by permission.

Abstract

This study discusses the misdemeanant correctional facilities and services of the state of Nebraska.There is a narrowed focus on the population, administration, program, and physical facilities.

From the standpoint of the number of city and county jail facilities which exist in the state, this state is grossly overbuilt.It is obvious that we do not need 268 jail facilities for an estimated average daily jail population (county and city) of 584.

Supervision in many of Nebraska’s county jails is dangerously inadequate.Unsupervised inmates might very well be hopelessly trapped in the event of a fire.In addition, when staff supervision is not provided, inmates frequently establish their own “supervision” procedures, a practice which sometimes results in the subjugation and humiliation of the weak by the strong.Also, there is no uniformity in record-keeping.In some instances records are very inadequate.Statistical information about jail population is necessary for good planning.Such information is not available unless adequate records are kept.Furthermore, statutory requirements relating to jail inspections are, in many cases, not being met.

Very few programs of a correctional nature exist in Nebraska’s county jails.Also, Nebraska communities exhibit very little interest in jail and the people who are incarcerated in the facilities.

Finally, Nebraska’s county jails are not designed to reflect a correctional philosophy.There are no uniform standards for cleanliness, health, and safety; in many cases these matters are seriously neglected.

Advisor: Arthur Bruce Winter

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