[secabeen]

Okay, this are good numbers. However, I would also draw your attention to Table 7. Only about half of the prisoners released who were re-arrested were re-arrested for violent crimes. So, the question I ask is, are these released prisoners actually getting the support they need to succeed after release, are are they so weighed down by the stigma of prison that they can't reasonably obtain a non-criminal life?

[fckthisguy]

Absolutely the latter. There simply isn't any support for the vast majority of people.

Yes, you can argue that some communities have support groups or employment opportunities specific for ex-prisoners, but this isn't available universally, isn't well funded, and most people won't turn to help even if it's offered. That last part is true of free people as well: think of how many people in need refuse to reach out.

The stigma is real and crime is only ever a few inches away from most people.