not 'bellyaching' but just thinking it through

I believe in the principle/law of 'sowing and reaping'  (the sixth principle of Spiritualism which is also in Galatians 6:6-18). We have to face the consequences of our actions (all of us).

What does locking 'em up teach 'em - besides just taking away their freedom but still ensuring they have a bed to sleep in, a roof over their heads and food to eat - paid for by the taxpayer - in already crowded prisons with plenty of 'reoffenders' in there - who obviously haven't learnt their lesson?

I also agree that the COmmunity Service theory needs over hauling...

It does if criminals believe it to be an easy ride. I wonder about getting those convicted to doing some of the community work which councils don't have the money for anymore (properly supervised of course)