Death by Prison: The Emergence of Life without Parole and Perpetual Confinement

Life imprisonment without the possibility of parole (LWOP) has become a common practice in the US, but its origins remain unclear. This book combines historical analysis with state- and institutional-level research to challenge this problematic practice and shed light on the shifts in penal practice and social imagination that have led to its acceptance.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 12 July 2022
Publisher: University of California Press

In recent decades, life imprisonment without the possibility of parole (LWOP) has emerged as a distinct penal form in the United States, deeply ingrained in policy-making, judicial and prosecutorial decision-making, correctional practice, and public discourse. While LWOP has become a routine practice, the origins and evolution of this phenomenon remain a subject of debate. Fifty years ago, the imprisonment of a person until death was considered an extraordinary punishment. However, today, it constitutes the sentences of an increasing number of prisoners in the United States. This shift in penal practice and social imagination has led us to become accustomed to the idea of imprisoning individuals until death without the possibility of reevaluation or release.

To address this deeply problematic practice, Death by Prison offers a provocative new foundation for questioning. Drawing from a wide historical lens and conducting detailed state- and institutional-level research, the book delves into the historical, legal, and social factors that have contributed to the prevalence of LWOP. It explores the changing attitudes towards punishment, the role of race and class in sentencing, and the impact ofarceration on individuals, families, and communities.

Through its comprehensive analysis, Death by Prison challenges the notion that LWOP is a just and effective form of punishment. It highlights the flaws in the criminal justice system, including the overreliance on punishment, the lack of evidence-based decision-making, and the disproportionate impact of LWOP on marginalized communities. The book calls for a reexamination of this practice and the development of alternative sentencing options that prioritize rehabilitation, restoration, and the protection of public safety.

In conclusion, Death by Prison is a crucial contribution to the ongoing debate about the use of life imprisonment without the possibility of parole in the United States. By providing a comprehensive and nuanced analysis of this practice, the book offers a valuable foundation for questioning and reforming the criminal justice system. It is a must-read for policymakers, legal professionals, activists, and anyone interested in understanding the complexities of punishment and the impact of incarceration on society.

Weight: 412g
Dimension: 151 x 230 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520379985