Non-custodial sentencing and reduction of overcrowding in Ghana prisons: Case study of Nsawam male prisons

Abstract

This research focused on investigating issues related to non-custodial sentencing and reduction of overcrowding in Ghana prison. The study was limited to male prison inmates at the Nsawam prisons. Specifically, the study examined the nature of non-custodial sentencing, decongestion mechanisms and the well-being of prisoners. The study adopted a qualitative study approach using interview as a data collection tool. The study focused on using sixteen (16) prison inmates and four (4) prison officers to explore these objectives; adoption of non-custodial sentencing, decongestion mechanism and well-being of prison inmates. The exploration dwelt on the use of non-custodial sentencing in Ghana which is unattended to hence, the criminal justice system needs to be amended by introducing non-custodial sentencing. Also, there was no defined procedure for decongestion activities at the prison. Again, the wellbeing of prison inmates was identified to be in a deplorable state. Health, food and mental instability were significant issues related to the well-being of prison inmates. The study recommended the enactment of the non-custodial laws as well as initiating a long-term decongestion of prison facilities including Inmates’ food program was featured to ensure that diet/food is balanced enough to keep them healthy.