Whether all criminals should be sent to jail is a controversial question. While some think that it is police choice, others argue that there are other alternatives for petty offences. I personally support the latter statement.
On the one hand, sending all criminals to prison whether they committed major or minor crimes can be beneficial for several reasons. Individuals who committed crime once, for instance, would not even think about doing such thing again later on. This also increases public awareness of what is going to happen with those who break the law or acts violently. As a result, people would think twice before taking any actions which may put them in a disadvantage, directly resulting in fewer offenders.
On the other hand, belief that every criminal should be treated equally no matter what circumstances are is absurd and unjust towards those who accidently have done it. For example, sending a driver to prison who crashed into a pedestrian unintentionally can be clear example of it. Another example involves self-defense situations where people try to protect themselves from thieves, murderers or from anybody else who tries to harm them and accidently kills the offender. In such situations ordinary people are victims here not the other way around; therefore, they should be considered as innocents and given adequate support. Before, deciding on penalties cases should be observed and ulterior motives of criminals should be taken into account.
In conclusion, putting everyone in jail can have it own benefits like raising public awareness or preventing potential crimes; nevertheless, making decisions without a thorough investigation can lead to wrong decision and scapegoat.