Graying prisoners

There is an excellent article in today's New York Times by Jamie Fellner which talks about the fact that "the old and the very old" make up the fastest-growing segment of the prison population. Mr. Fellner discusses what it's like for someone in their late 80s or even their 90s to live in prison and what it's like for the prison system to try to look after them.

I tend to be one of the people who believes that if you can't do the time, don't do the crime. I really don't like the idea of people victimizing others. But I have to say, this article makes a very compelling argument for early, compassionate release for certain elderly prisoners. Click here to read the article; I think you'll find yourself reacting strongly to it.