México tras las rejas. La crisis del sistema penitenciario

Abstract

To date in mexico attempts to curb the trend to increase the incidence of crime have failed. We have allowed a monster to grow that far exceeds the current capacity of our institutions to investigate, process and / or treat criminals, therefore, it is necessary to aim for prevention. It is clear that we are talking about a problem that involves many elements; personality, social inequality, poverty, lack of opportunities, unemployment, inadequate education, corruption, addictions and other problems. Identifying the causes of crime, taking into account the particularities of each case and the similarities between groups is essential to address this problem efficiently. It is in the penitentiary system where we can access this information, conduct relevant investigations and intervene with those who have not adjusted to the standards. But our penitentiary system is overpopulated and in critical conditions; there are more and more inmates and repeat offenders, despite the fact that they denounce, investigate and identify criminals less. Increased crime, impunity, prison overcrowding, and recidivism are elements of a vicious circle. One way of entry to dismantle this problem is the restructuring and depressurization of the penitentiary system. Changes are needed to make productive use of the available resources and in accordance with the rights of the inmates, also to take advantage of their productive capacity, for their own benefit and that of society.