Cooper Houston Ms. Stidham English II 1 March 2024 Restorative Justice Recidivism rates in the U.S. are some of the highest in the world with almost 44% of criminals returning to prison and a life of crime within their first year out. The restorative justice system has been put off as unnecessary as many see crime as a personal choice. Many are inconsiderate of those who struggle with abuse, mental health, and financial issues as some people have no choice but to turn to a life of crime. While some may argue that if the Justice System issues harsh and extensive sentences, then more people may act without impulse and foresee extensive punishments, the United States Justice System should implement a more representative, rehabilitative, and just
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In Just Mercy, Stevenson writes, “I've been in a group therapy class here. You're supposed to be real honest. I finally told the group, ‘Well I can top all of you, I put a damn man on death row by lying in damn court.’ After I told all of 'em what I’d done, everybody said I needed to make it right.” (113). This example of group therapy in a prison of no hope provides an insight into the regret and remorse one can feel for their entire life before coming out to admit and take responsibility for their crimes. This quote shows that after many people lie in court, they have incredible regret for their actions and without this rehabilitative group they might never have the courage to repent for the crime of lying in court. Furthermore, the different inmates in that group would go on to encourage him to take action and make it right for the community of falsely accused inmates. Not only should rehabilitative groups be provided in prison, but lenient sentences for the underdeveloped should be taken into consideration. The sentences for adolescents have been seen as fair to an
In Just Mercy, Stevenson writes, “I've been in a group therapy class here. You're supposed to be real honest. I finally told the group, ‘Well I can top all of you, I put a damn man on death row by lying in damn court.’ After I told all of 'em what I’d done, everybody said I needed to make it right.” (113). This example of group therapy in a prison of no hope provides an insight into the regret and remorse one can feel for their entire life before coming out to admit and take responsibility for their crimes. This quote shows that after many people lie in court, they have incredible regret for their actions and without this rehabilitative group they might never have the courage to repent for the crime of lying in court. Furthermore, the different inmates in that group would go on to encourage him to take action and make it right for the community of falsely accused inmates. Not only should rehabilitative groups be provided in prison, but lenient sentences for the underdeveloped should be taken into consideration. The sentences for adolescents have been seen as fair to an