Research Paper Melissa

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Melissa Marquis
Composition 101
Essay #3
Alternatives to Incarceration
Drug use can negatively impact all facets of one’s life. The backlash caused by
addiction is widespread and can compromise home life, work and the community. One of the by-
products of addiction is crime, which can inevitably lead to incarceration. Drug-related crime can
range from possession, distributing, stealing in exchange for drugs, violence, and destructive
behavior. Historically, punishment for addicted criminals has been harsh, as society views
addiction as a choice. However, in recent times, there has been more empathy surrounding drug
addiction. More and more, society is looking upon drug use as a treatable disease. This has
started to change the methods society uses to deal with drug-related crimes. According to The
National Association of Drug Court Professionals, “80% of offenders abuse drugs or alcohol.
Additionally, 60% to 80% of drug abusers commit a new crime (typically a drug-driven crime)
after release from prison.” (1) Alternatives to incarceration for non-violent drug offenders should
be instituted for many reasons, including combating the primary cause of the addiction,
decreasing prison costs and cutting recidivism.
Drug addiction is a multifaceted disease. According to The National Institute of Drug
Abuse, “While the path to drug addiction begins with the voluntary act of taking drugs, over time
a person's ability to choose not to do so becomes compromised, and seeking and consuming the
drug becomes compulsive. This behavior results largely from the effects of prolonged drug
exposure on brain functioning.” (2) This means that, although the first act of taking drugs is
voluntary, it sets off a compulsion to act out of character and commit crimes. There are many
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treatment options used as alternatives to incarceration. Treatment, instead of incarceration,
confronts the root cause of addiction. It helps to stop the negative behavior that is sometimes a
direct result of addiction. The treatment resolution attacks the core of the issue versus putting a
band aid over a much larger problem.
Residential treatment programs are structured, secure environments – places where
inmates can receive intensive therapy. Treatment can help find what caused the addiction in the
first place, how to deal with negative thoughts, and provide the necessary tools to help addicts
become functioning members of society. Outside of treatment programs, Drug Court is also an
effective deterrent. According to ‘Promises Treatment Centers’ website, “Drug courts offer an
effective alternative with a blending of justice and treatment. Drug court participants undergo
intensive substance abuse treatment, case management, drug testing, supervision, and
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