The mission of work release facilities is to promote public safety through the successful reintegration of offenders returning to the community. Work release facilities serve as a bridge between life in prison and life in the community. Offenders at work release focus on transition, to include finding and retaining employment, re-connecting with family members, and becoming productive members of the community. Work release is an opportunity for self-improvement, while assisting offenders in creating a safe and productive lifestyle that can be sustained upon release. Offenders who complete the work release program are more likely to be successful in maintaining employment and stable housing. An offender with 3 years or less left to serve may be eligible to participate in a work release facility, if specific criteria are met. For example, an offender must have a record of good behavior. Additionally, there must be available bed space at a work release facility. Offenders in work release facilities must follow all program rules. They must retain employment and will be monitored to ensure compliance. Frequent testing for substance abuse will be administered. Offenders may only leave the facility for work or other specific activities, such as appointments, treatment. There are several programs for offenders such as AA, NA, educational, anger management and religious programs. Failure to abide by the rules may result in sanction and/or termination from the program. |
