Interview: Dr. Kenneth Kerle, Ph.D., editor of American jails magazine and author of American jails: Looking to the future

Abstract

In the past 30 years, Dr. Kerle has had extensive experience with jails both in the United States and abroad. In this interview, conducted by Judith Sturges, he discusses his perspectives about jails. He explains how he became involved with jails and describes how conditions have changed in these facilities during the past three decades. Dr. Kerle discusses how the public's perception about the purpose of jails affect funding and programs. Contrary to the public's belief, changes which address the human needs of inmates as well as foster justice and fairness have resulted due to direct supervision and better trained jail staff. Dr. Kerle suggests that jail administrators take an active role in their communities to inform citizens about jail issues. He also emphasizes that community support is needed so collaboration can begin between community groups and the jails in order to reduce crime rates during the 21st century.