Introduction

This document is a summary of recommendations of the John Howard Society regarding the Corrections and Conditional Release Act (CCRA). The CCRA is the primary legislation that governs the conduct of correctional officials in carrying out the sentences of the court. As such, it is of great interest to the Society.

The Society has made a number of recommendations for changes to this act in accordance with the Society's mission. Those recommendations, as well as a brief description of the society are contained in this document in the following order:

• The principles of the CCRA
• The recommendations of the Society
  • Correctional Investigator
  • Internal Investigations
  • Independent Adjudication to Segregation
  • Statutory Release with Residence
  • Programs and Services
  • Gradual Release with Higher Risk Offenders
  • Accelerated Parole and Statutory Release
  • Graduated Presumptive Release: A proposed model
• About the John Howard Society

The Principles of the CCRA

The CCRA sets out two goals or principles of corrections. These principles should be central to all actions of corrections officials. The recommendations of the Society are made according to these stated goals. According to the Act, the purpose of the federal correctional system is to contribute to the maintenance of a just, peaceful and fair society by:

• Carrying out sentences imposed by the courts through the safe and humane custody and supervision of offenders, and
• assisting the rehabilitation of offenders in their reintegration into the community as law-abiding citizens through the provision of programs in penitentiaries and in the community.

These goals are to be achieved through:

• The fair and legal treatment of prisoners,
• Professional treatment and programs, and
• Properly operated gradual release programs.