The problem with sentencing for people with addiction problems – Deseret News

I am a doctoral student at the University of Utah and I am writing to address concerns about the criminal justice system and the inadequate rehabilitation process, particularly for individuals accused of drug and alcohol offenses – those struggling with addiction. I worked for over a year at a local outpatient psychiatric clinic and found that our courts display a tremendous disproportionateness in sentencing individuals from diverse backgrounds.

In drug and alcohol offences, the offender is often offered the option of completing the conditions rather than a prison sentence. The basic idea is admirable: it offers the opportunity to retain freedom and avoid significant disruption to work and family life. Unfortunately, it is difficult to overlook the inequality and financial motives, which I believe are the real incentive behind such sentences. Certain individuals are immediately disadvantaged both in terms of their financial capacity and the number of conditions required. Insurance coverage also plays a large role, and often individuals spend a lot of time and money completing the conditions, which still ends up resulting in a prison sentence. A more person-centered approach is needed!

Thomas Tabish

City