Out Of Sight, Out Of Mind: Analyzing Inhumane Practices In Mississippi's Correctional Institutions Due To Overcrowding, Understaffing, And Diminished Funding

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to examine the political, social, and economic factors which have led to inhumane conditions in Mississippi's correctional facilities. Several methods were employed, including a comparison of the historical and current methods of funding, staffing, and rehabilitating prisoners based on literature reviews. State-sponsored reports from various departments and the legislature were analyzed to provide insight into budgetary restrictions and political will to allocate funds. Statistical surveys and data were reviewed to determine how overcrowding and understaffing negatively affect administrative capacity and prisoners' mental and physical well-being. Ultimately, it may be concluded that Mississippi has high inmate populations which are disproportionate to that of staff. This conflicting reality is a result of improper funding by the Mississippi legislature, failure of legislators to prioritize the issue of correctional reform on the agenda, and general disinterest from the public. Several recommendations are made in the final chapter to address why the legislature should increase funding and how the funds should be used when obtained to improve the incarcerated population's quality of life and prepare them for, if eligible, a smooth transition back into society.