Other Countries Have Successfully Reduced Incarceration Rates Without Increasing Crime: We Can Do It!

The United States incarcerates more people than any other developed country despite little evidence that high incarceration rates reduce crime-and evidence they can actually increase crime. In this paper, we review research on reducing incarceration rates through diversion and early release programs as well as effective rehabilitation and correctional interventions. We also discuss how such research can guide policy decisions. We examine how other developed countries have kept incarceration rates low, especially those that have successfully reduced incarceration rates without a corresponding increase in crime. These nations suggest how we can move from a "lock 'em up" mentality to rational correctional policies.