Crime affects the entire community. It destroys trust, security, and safety. Not only is it a mark on the lives of its victims, but it also impacts the livelihoods of the loved ones of the victims and the people who commit the crime. American Quittance Society is designed to bring all affected by crime together to seek solutions to the trauma and hardship of crime.
Excessive prison sentences do not detour crime. Incarcerated people state that sex offenders continue to commit crimes behind prison walls (Oxyword). Incarcerated addicts continue to abuse opioids within the penal system. Supportive programs are either restricted, ineffective, or nonexistent. Not all incarcerated people wish to end their criminal activity - rehabilitative programs will not benefit them. But for those who wish to quit criminal activity, these rehabilitative programs may have a positive effect on the participants. Those who actively seek support should have these resources available during their entire sentence.
The penal system should focus on discovering the cause of the criminal activity and work on the resources needed to reduce the prison population and prevent recidivism. The trauma caused by incarceration can be eliminated with alternative sentencing.
American Quittance Society relies on supportive relationships to build a stronger community. We believe alternative sentencing (especially for single parents and those requiring long term medical care) can provide a safe community and strengthen the work force.
QUITTING FOR GOOD
