How can we Change Prisoner's Lives to Make it Better?
In places such as Tuscon Arizona, the penal system is starting to try to disband gangs
In a novel experiment, the state Department of Corrections is shipping prison gang leaders to other facilities across the country where they'll find themselves in the racial minority.
The aim: to curb one of America's most persistent causes of violence behind bars.
Transferring gang leaders "makes it very, very difficult - because of time and distance - for them to effectively become involved in any command and control of organized gang activities in our prison system," says Arizona Department of Corrections director Terry Stewart.
Gang violence remains one of the most stubborn problems for corrections officials at all levels, and if it proves successful, Arizona's nascent program could end up being duplicated by other states across the country.
In a novel experiment, the state Department of Corrections is shipping prison gang leaders to other facilities across the country where they'll find themselves in the racial minority.
The aim: to curb one of America's most persistent causes of violence behind bars.
Transferring gang leaders "makes it very, very difficult - because of time and distance - for them to effectively become involved in any command and control of organized gang activities in our prison system," says Arizona Department of Corrections director Terry Stewart.
Gang violence remains one of the most stubborn problems for corrections officials at all levels, and if it proves successful, Arizona's nascent program could end up being duplicated by other states across the country.
What Happens when we Move Around Prison Gangs?
Terry Stewart is a firm believer in this idea
Stewart defends the program. "I noticed a difference after I sent out the first one. I had [gang members] standing in line saying, 'I don't want to go out of state. Let me tell you what I know.' "His wardens report that their yards are easier to manage now that the first five ringleaders have been relocated. As for creating a new breed of gang leaders, he adds, they will be inexperienced and easier to deal with. "It is an unfortunate fact that someone will step up to take their place," he says. "It's a continuing fight."
Stewart defends the program. "I noticed a difference after I sent out the first one. I had [gang members] standing in line saying, 'I don't want to go out of state. Let me tell you what I know.' "His wardens report that their yards are easier to manage now that the first five ringleaders have been relocated. As for creating a new breed of gang leaders, he adds, they will be inexperienced and easier to deal with. "It is an unfortunate fact that someone will step up to take their place," he says. "It's a continuing fight."