Geographic Information Systems: Helping Corrections Inside and Outside Prison Walls

• NCJ Number: 211615
• Journal: Corrections Today
• Author(s): Joe Russo
• Date Published: 2001
• Length: 3 pages
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored
• Publication Type: Report (Technical)

Annotation

This report describes the many uses of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and mapping technology for the corrections community.

Abstract

While GIS and crime mapping are not new to the criminal justice community, correctional agencies have recently begun exploring expanded ways of utilizing GIS and mapping technologies to improve the efficiency of their daily operations. Many of the ways in which mapping technologies can aid corrections are described, such as in the management of sex offenders, who are geographically restricted in their movements, and in the geographic deployment of officers and resources. GIS can identify where most offenders live in the community, enabling administrators to assign caseloads geographically, conserving resources and targeting supervision where it is needed most. GIS can also aid correctional institutions in the management of inmates for example, mapping where most of the institutional infractions occur. The report also describes how to plan for and implement a GIS program, focusing on technological and training needs as well as barriers to implementation. References