Punishment

Punishment

This week’s discussion will continue in the area of punishment, and will look at two very controversial topics:

First, consider the idea of conjugal visits for prisoners. Some states allow inmates private visitation time with their spouses.

Imagine that you are the warden of a prison that, at present, does not allow conjugal visits for prisoners. You are considering adopting this procedure.

• What data would you need to gather in order to make an informed decision? After looking at the research, what would you decide? Explain your reasoning.
• Explain what possible opposition could you face, and whether these programs have disadvantages.

Next, consider the case of Dean Claude Odermatt. His conviction for sexual battery on a child carried with it a sentence that includes 25 years in prison and chemical castration upon his release.

• Is chemical castration an effective sentence for sex offenders such as Odermatt? Only a small number of states allow chemical or surgical castration as punishment. Do you support laws like this? (See PDF file of th case attached)