[JumpCrisscross]

> the single most reliable way to reform a criminal is to let them get older without going to jail

I think it’s just getting older. If they’re a recivifism risk, locking them up until they’re older can be argued to serve the public good. If they’re not, you’re right, don’t jail them. The argument is essentially against short prison sentences; either find another way to punish or commit to locking them up until they’re 60.

[Lerc]

I don't think that is supported by the evidence. A custodial sentence can counteract any benefits of age because it isn't the age itself that matters, it's the increased life experience.

Subjecting people to a fairly brutal environment for that time provides a completely different set of experiences.

The long standing dichotomies of crime management is whether reduced crime is more, or less important, than justice. On top of this is is punishment retribution, deterrent, rehabilitation, or mere isolation.

Many people disagree on these points. Some refuse to acknowledge the possibility that some of the goals might be in conflict.