IPS overhauls inmate rehabilitation, officer responsibilities as prison security upgraded
Requirements include obeying rules, maintaining appropriate behavior, and participating in supplementary educational programs that involve group discussions and work.
The Israel Prison Service (IPS) is making significant changes to inmate rehabilitation, prison security, and the duties of correctional officers, as reported by Maariv during a visit to Dekel Prison. One of the key programs is behavioral rehabilitation, aimed at preparing prisoners for reintegration into society. The department, known as SHADEH, focuses on altering behavior patterns through educational and personal work.
Prisoners in the department are given unique resources, such as an educational center and an attention center for those with attention deficit disorders, rather than relying on medication.
Discipline is an integral part of the rehabilitation process. The prisoners in the department adhere to strict rules, maintaining appropriate behavior throughout the day, participating in group discussions, and working on maintenance duties in their living quarters. Although these requirements may seem simple, many inmates struggle to adapt, as they have not practiced them outside prison walls. The ultimate goal is to enable society to accept them as individuals with equal rights.
Approximately 20 inmates were present for a farewell gathering for one of their fellow prisoners, maintaining discipline by rising together and participating in light refreshments. Chief Superintendent Shahar Raymond explained that these behaviors are part of their rehabilitation efforts.
Dekel Prison houses around 700 inmates, who are generally not the most dangerous but rather individuals serving up to seven-year sentences. About 40% of the inmates participate in educational activities, primarily religious studies or factory work, while the rest prefer to sleep or remain absorbed in their thoughts. Some inmates are serving sentences for traffic offenses that caused fatal accidents, while others have been convicted of negligence leading to deadly incidents.
The changing role of correctional officers is also evident at Dekel Prison. They are now referred to as correctional officers, rather than prison guards. The officers focus on ensuring discipline and maintaining order within the prison environment.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
