Crimes have always been a controversial subject in today’s society, causing loss of wealth, leaving trauma, if not deaths. Therefore, in an attempt to lower the crime rate, it has been suggested that criminals face a strict sentence. However, some people think that there are better ways to prevent crime. In this essay, I will shed light on both view and give the final judgement.
To commence with, it is acknowledged that longer prison sentence can effectively reduce crime rate. First of all, with a severe punishment, not only does it serve as a warning for people who are thinking about committing crimes but it also guarantees that the offender won’t commit crime again as the thought of getting an even longer punishment will appear in their mind. Furthermore, the longer the sentence also allows for the criminal to repent for their mistake. Beside, longer sentence also bring time for the prisoners to rehabilitate, get some vocational training skills so that when they are out of prison, they can redeem themselves and become a good citizen.
On the other hand, it is true that some measures are superior in certain situations. Firstly, most crimes can be avoided if not for the carelessness of the person. For example, burglary can easily be avoided if the house is locked and surveillance cameras are placed. If the criminal can’t find a way to commit crime, they will eventually give up. Secondly, instead of a 3-year-sentence for stealing a few bucks, there are better ways to punish the offender. For instance, many countries have implemented the punishment of house arrest which a bracelet containing a GPS will be put around the criminal ankles. When they go out of the house or break the bracelet, a warning will be issued and the crime can be stopped before it even happens.
In conclusion, both views have their ups and downs or loopholes that can be abused. Therefore, it is vital to integrate both longer prison sentences and alternative ways to ensure that criminals don’t have their chances to break the law.