What is the Pennsylvania corrections model?
Pennsylvania system, penal method based on the principle that solitary confinement fosters penitence and encourages reformation. The idea was advocated by the Philadelphia Society for Alleviating the Miseries of Public Prisons, whose most active members were Quakers.
How many state penitentiaries are in Pennsylvania?
23 state correctional institutions
Location and historical information for the 23 state correctional institutions and motivational boot camp under the supervision of the Department of Corrections is detailed in this section.
Where is the Cresson Sanatorium?
Cambria County
The Cresson Sanatorium was located in the mountain near the present-day town of Cresson in Cambria County. The “San” as it was known, was in existence from 1913 and 1964 and treated people diagnosed with tuberculosis.
What is the difference between the Pennsylvania and Auburn systems?
The Auburn system was criticized for its being too harsh on punishment and lack of having rehabilitative potential. The Pennsylvania system was criticized for its being too costly due to their focus on solitary confinement.
Why did Eastern State abandon the Pennsylvania system?
The solitary confinement system eventually collapsed due to overcrowding problems. By 1913, Eastern State officially abandoned the solitary system and operated as a congregate prison until it closed in 1970 (Eastern State was briefly used to house city inmates in 1971 after a riot at Holmesburg Prison).
What does the PA Department of Corrections do?
Our mission is to reduce criminal behavior by providing individualized treatment and education to inmates, resulting in successful community reintegration through accountability and positive change. DOC is responsible for overseeing the operation of: 24 state correctional institutions and one motivational boot camp.