Non-Violent Drug Offenders Need Drug Rehab Not Bars By Mary C Hines

Our prisons are full. This is true from coast to coast. This is despite the reported decrease in numbers incarcerated. As of the beginning of 2013 the figure was approximately 1.6 million prisoners behind bars. Some have quoted it as 2.2 million. But what about the numbers of those who are non-violent drug offenders? Seems that the quoted figures again vary quite a bit, but we might be safe to assume that at least 22 percent of all prisoners in the U.S. are non-violent drug offenders. Legislation to Change Matters Many states are introducing legislation that would send drug offenders to rehabilitation rather than putting them behind bars. New Jersey is one, with the Governor last year proposing to put the non-violent drug offender through a drug rehab rather than stick him in prison. It is less expensive to put an addict through rehab than to support him for one year in prison. Additionally, drug addicts usually go right back out and begin using drugs again. The New Jersey Governor estimated that 50 percent relapsed and would end up back in jail. Recently in Indianapolis it was reported that the Indiana Legislature approved a bill which overhauls penalties on drug offenses, putting those convicted of non-violent offenses on work release programs. That is a step in the right direction, although nothing goes into effect until 2014. There are about 2,700 drug courts in the U.S. and these courts have the ability to sentence an offender to a drug rehab program. However, currently this is coming after the person has already spent time in jail. What do these people learn in prison? They are not addressed regarding their addiction. They don't learn life skills important in maintaining a drug-free life. Longer Sentences for Non-Violent Drug Offenders It seems that prison sentences for non-violent drug offenders are longer than for someone who has molested a child, robbed a bank or committed rape. Supporting this was one lady commented on a blog post that she was raising eight of her grandchildren because two of her daughters were in prison for meth use. One of these women had never been in trouble before but received a sentence of 28 years. Cravings Drive an Addict Addicts who commit non-violent crimes are normally trying to get their next fix, driven by uncontrolled cravings. In talking with numerous addicts who were going through rehab programs, they admitted doing things they never would have normally done due to the desire to get money for more drugs. They manipulate people, steal, lie - whatever it takes to satisfy their urges. You hear it time and time again, addiction destroys lives. It's true. It is of the highest necessity to save addicted lives as well as protect our society by getting non-violent drug offenders into an effective drug rehab program that will allow them to live a life without drugs, where they can be contributing members of society and live productive and happy lives. Solution to Addiction is an effective drug rehab referral service committed to finding the right drug rehab facility for those addicted to any drugs. Those addicted to prescription drugs, cocaine, heroin need to get the best help obtainable. Drugs really can be left behind for good. We help find the right drug rehab program for you or your loved one. Call us today. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7794726