If you`ve been following the latest criminal justice reforms, you`ve probably heard of the mutual agreement parole program. Also known as MAPP, it`s a relatively new program that is already showing promising results in reducing recidivism rates and helping inmates successfully reintegrate into society.
Here`s what you need to know about MAPP.
What is MAPP?
MAPP is a collaborative effort between the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (DOC) and the Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole (PBPP). It`s designed to provide eligible inmates with an expedited path to parole if they meet certain criteria.
Under MAPP, inmates can earn credits for completing rehabilitative programs and making positive changes during their incarceration. These credits can be used to shorten their minimum sentence, making them eligible for parole sooner than they would be otherwise.
Who is eligible for MAPP?
MAPP is available to inmates who meet the following criteria:
– They are serving a minimum sentence of at least three years.
– They have completed at least 18 months of their minimum sentence.
– They have not been convicted of a violent crime or a crime against a person.
In addition, inmates must meet certain behavioral and programmatic criteria to be eligible for MAPP. This includes demonstrating a commitment to rehabilitation, participating in educational and vocational programs, and maintaining good behavior while incarcerated.
How does MAPP work?
Under MAPP, inmates earn credits for completing rehabilitative programs and making positive changes while incarcerated. These credits can be used to shorten their minimum sentence, making them eligible for parole sooner than they would be otherwise.
For example, an inmate who completes a vocational training program may earn one credit, while an inmate who completes a drug and alcohol treatment program may earn three credits. The number of credits required to shorten a minimum sentence varies depending on the severity of the inmate`s offense and other factors.
Once an inmate has earned enough credits to shorten their minimum sentence, they are eligible to participate in a “pre-release review” by the PBPP. If the review is successful, the inmate may be granted parole and released from prison.
What are the benefits of MAPP?
MAPP has several benefits for both inmates and society as a whole. For inmates, it provides a clear path to parole and incentivizes them to participate in rehabilitative programs and make positive changes during their incarceration. This can help reduce recidivism rates and improve the chances of successful reintegration into society.
For society, MAPP can help reduce the cost of incarceration by shortening the amount of time inmates spend in prison. It can also help reduce recidivism rates, which can lower crime rates and make communities safer.
In conclusion, the mutual agreement parole program is a promising new approach to criminal justice reform. By incentivizing inmates to participate in rehabilitative programs and make positive changes during their incarceration, MAPP can help reduce recidivism rates and improve the chances of successful reintegration into society. As more states consider criminal justice reform, programs like MAPP will likely become an increasingly important part of the conversation.
