Sen. Jim Webb, D-Virginia, wants to reform the country’s prison system and is on a campaign to do just that.
Earlier this week, he visited jails and rehabilitation centers in Richmond and Fredericksburg and will address an annual conference of Virginia-based federal public defenders and attorneys today in Charlottesville.
Webb said it is in the self-interest of every American that the country’s prison system be evaluated and improved, citing the Bragg Hill Family Life Center in Fredericksburg and The Healing Place in Richmond as “great models” for nationwide alternatives.
“The U.S. criminal justice system is in serious need of repair, and the people we’ve met this week understand first-hand the need for comprehensive approaches and solutions,” he said.
Bragg Hill, housed in a former juvenile detention center, offers education, nutrition, wellness, employment training and social services to disadvantaged citizens in the Fredericksburg area, according to a release from Webb’s office.
The Healing Place in Richmond provides overnight shelter and recovery programs for homeless men addicted to drugs and/or alcohol.
Wednesday, Webb toured the Richmond City Jail with Richmond Sheriff C.T. Woody, Richmond Mayor Dwight Jones and several deputies.
“Over the last few years, Sen. Webb has been Washington’s most outspoken voice in the efforts to improve our nation’s prison system,” said Woody.
Last month, Webb introduced legislation — the National Criminal Justice Commission Act of 2009 — that seeks to establish a blue ribbon commission charged with conducting an 18-month, top-to-bottom review of the nation’s entire prison system. The group would also offer recommendations for reform.
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