Tottenham riots last night........

[Pete/London]

From interviewing people in prison, who were convicted (pleaded guilty) in connection with the Broadwater Farm riots in 1985, I can say that many young blacks, not all, were totally unaffected by being locked up.

If my impression was correct, that means the threat of prison is not a deterrent and officialdom must look for other solutions.

While I would wish for prison to help reform criminals I am just pleased to have them taken out of circulation, if they offend again then catch them and keep them in prison longer.
I would also like to see more restitution taken against all criminals to make sure crime does not pay.

[johncar54]

While I would wish for prison to help reform criminals I am just pleased to have them taken out of circulation, if they offend again then catch them and keep them in prison longer.
I would also like to see more restitution taken against all criminals to make sure crime does not pay.

I see your point but it might be more cost effective not to send offenders to prison (the cost is around £40,000 p.p. per year). So maybe pay them the £760 p w. prison would cost and fine them if they do anything wrong. (I am not serious, or at least I didn't think I was ...... )

As for them paying restitution. Most criminals who affect our every day life don't have anything. Blood from stones springs to mind.