Reducing recidivism rates in California is vital to lowering California state prison populations. One way to keep men and women from returning to incarceration is to provide support following release, without it the risk is high.

The Custody to Community Transitional Reentry Program (CCTRP) allows eligible offenders with serious and violent crimes committed to State prison to serve their sentence in the community at a CCTRP instead of confinement in State prison. According to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation CCTRP provides rehabilitative services that assist with alcohol and drug recovery, employment, education, housing, family reunification, and social support.

Another program available to state prisoners meant to reduce recidivism rates is the Male Community Reentry Program (MCRP). The program permits eligible offenders to serve the end of their sentences (up to one year) in the community. MCRP provides a range of community-based, rehabilitative services that assist with substance use disorders, mental health care, medical care, employment, education, housing, family reunification, and social support.

Naturally, the above initiatives are only for prisoners in California. Unfortunately, there is a shortage of similar options for men and women serving time in Federal prisons in California and beyond.

The First Step Act

Programs like the Custody to Community Transitional Reentry Program and the Male Community Reentry Program have helped thousands of people make a smoother transition back into society. There is ample evidence to suggest that working with inmates before their release can better ensure successful outcomes following parole. By assisting prisoners long before they are paroled, it can have a significant impact on both convicted felons and the communities they return to down the road.

In December, The First Step Act was signed into law to support federal inmates through the utilization of in-prison programs. The New York Times says the legislation will deliver “the most significant changes to the criminal justice system in a generation.”

The First Step Act authorizes $75 million per year for five years for in-custody programming that prepares inmates for life after release, The Mercury News reports. The funding will expand the number of inmates who can participate and support them better along the way.

Orange County Attorney At Law

The Law Office of Ronald G. Brower invites Californians who are facing legal trouble to contact our team for support. With decades of criminal justice experience, Attorney Brower is the best candidate to advocate for your freedom. 714-997-4400