Controlling corruption in a prison system: The New York State Department of Correctional Services, 1970-1990.
Item
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Title
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Controlling corruption in a prison system: The New York State Department of Correctional Services, 1970-1990.
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Identifier
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AAI9808010
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identifier
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9808010
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Creator
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Straub, Frank G., Jr.
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Contributor
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Adviser: Warren Benton
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Date
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1997
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Language
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English
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Publisher
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City University of New York.
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Subject
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Sociology, Criminology and Penology | Political Science, Public Administration
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Abstract
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Corruption presents an ongoing challenge for correctional administrators. Corruption can undermine programs and administration, erode the control structure, contribute to prison violence, demoralize correctional workers, and negatively impact the trust and confidence that the public places in the criminal justice system. As a result, the issue of corruption and its control can not be ignored. It must be placed on the agenda of academics, politicians, the media, and the public.;This study explores the evolution of anti-corruption strategies in the New York State Department of Correctional Services (DOCS) during the period 1970-1990. The research identified nineteen formal strategies used to prevent, detect and deter corruption in the prison system. Each of the nineteen anti-corruption strategies was evaluated with respect to a series of factors: the theoretical perspective that informed the strategy; initiation factors; implementation; goals; persistence; and organizational focus. In addition, the impact of leadership changes, scandals, and external investigations and/or monitoring were explored.;The present research concluded that the evolution of DOCS' anti-corruption strategies followed patterns similar to those in other criminal justice, specifically the post-Knapp NYPD. Additionally, the study found that 74% of DOCS' strategies were event driven, that crime control strategies were used most frequently (47%), and that 78% of the strategies targeted correction officers and other low level employees. Once implemented, the strategies remained in place for extended periods of time implying the need for periodic review and evaluation.;During the twenty years considered, DOCS showed a strong pattern in corruption control. The central element of DOCS' anti-corruption program is the Inspector General, the agency's internal investigations unit. Additionally, background investigations, psychological screening, drug testing, and integrity training are used to prevent, detect, and deter corruption in the Department. In 1996, the jurisdiction of the New York State Inspector General was expanded to include DOCS. As a result, DOCS' contemporary program incorporates internal and external measures that are consistent with anti-corruption efforts in the broader field of public administration.
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Type
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dissertation
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Source
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PQT Legacy CUNY.xlsx
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degree
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Ph.D.
