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Overworked prison guards part of broken system -- Michael Nichols | Opinion | host.madison.com
Overworked prison guards part of broken system -- Michael Nichols | Opinion | host.madison.com
The July 27 letter to the editor "Wisconsin is suffering from eroded support" from a frustrated parent of an overworked Wisconsin Department of Corrections officer is spot-on in identifying the staffing shortages and the dysfunction of Gov. Scott Walker's Department of Corrections.
I would argue, however, that the suggested solution of "paying a little more in taxes" is misplaced. Continuing to engorge the Department of Corrections' already hefty $2 billion share of the biennial budget is unlikely to achieve sustainable remedies. Less expensive and more effective options are, or should be, obvious. Revising or repealing the state's so-called "truth-in-sentencing" law and implementing rational sentencing guidelines with an emphasis on incarcerating violent offenders should be at the top of that list. Curtailing probation officers' penchant for revoking supervision for technical violations and crediting violators for time successfully served on supervision would also lower costs, lessen staff workload and reduce overcrowding at centers and institutions.
Regrettably, I am forced to concur with the letter writer's conclusion that the current Legislature and administration are unlikely to muster the political fortitude to effect the changes -- whatever they may be -- that are so desperately needed.
-- Michael Nichols, inmate, Oregon Correction Center
Tuesday, August 2, 2016
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