Punishing crime : obtaining value for money in corrections

Abstract

This thesis is an examination of the field of criminal corrections services and administration in New Zealand directed at the development of effective and efficient practice and management. Sociological and economic theory is used to build a framework for the discussion of options for adjusting the allocation of punishment - the range of sentence options available and the development of policies which encourage allocative efficiency in the distribution of sentenced offenders in ways which are consistent with the aims of an effective criminal justice system. It is concluded that strategic policy options to achieve these goals include refining the use of fines to increase the usage of monetary penalties and reduce the flow of offenders into community based sentences, increasing the sentencing utility of community based sentences to reduce the flow of offenders into custodial corrections and providing coherent prison programme structures which are directed more clearly towards reducing the propensity to re-offend. The overall strategy in terms of the allocation of punishment is to develop effective strategies to substitute expensive sentencing options with less expensive ones, consistent with maintaining or improving the goals of punishment. The remainder of the thesis is concerned with the development of service delivery methods and organisational structures which promote effectiveness and efficiency in the administration of punishment. Key organisational theories are discussed, followed by an examination of the effects of competition and the contracting out of correctional services to private providers. It is concluded that the effects of competition can yield identifiable efficiency and effectiveness improvements provided that proficient management structures and methodologies are purposely built to retain control and secure genuine positive competition among service providers. Finally, attention is given to the development of a management structure for New Zealand corrections which fills these requirements. One unique aspect of this study is the utilisation of Total Quality Management in the public sector environment of corrections as a strategy to secure long-term effectiveness and competitive advantage. It is argued that final cost effectiveness can only be obtained if sufficient attention is given to empowering the people within organisations who actually deliver the services.