Daily Prison Life (Crime and Detection Series)

The U.S. prison system is the largest and most innovative in the world. It has some of the most technologically advanced prisons in existence and every day meets the highest standards in security, using computers, cameras, and highly trained personnel. As a result of "tough on crime" policies introduced in the United States during the 1980s, the U.S. prison population has recently swelled to a staggering two million. In order to meet this rising demand for prison cells, new prisons have been constructed across the nation, and many private prison companies have helped to refine and modernize prison design. Inside these vast, specialized structures thousands of inmates -- many of whom are dangerous gang members and drug dealers removed from the streets of America's cities -- are contained and rehabilitated. Highly trained corrections officers use technology to anticipate outbreaks of violence and to prevent riots and escape attempts. Many other prison system professionals contribute to a tightly regulated system. Counselors, drug rehabilitation staff, medical personnel, and kitchen staff are among the committed prison personnel who each day face some of the world's most hardened criminals. America's prisons also serve as crime-prevention centers by teaching offenders new trades and by offering them the chance to learn life skills. Daily Prison Life covers every aspect of the U.S. prison system, from the first day of entry, to parole and release.