Time After Time: Repeat Offenders - the Inside Stories

In Time After Time, Chris Atkins explores the reasons behind why the state fails to keep repeat offenders out of trouble, using his unique access to the criminal underworld to understand why the system makes reoffending all but inevitable for ex-prisoners.

Format: Hardback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 07 September 2023
Publisher: Atlantic Books

From the bestselling author of "A Bit of a Stretch," comes a captivating and thought-provoking book that delves into the hidden stories of the British justice system. Eloquent, witty, engaging, and enraged, "Time After Time" is a must-read for anyone seeking a unique perspective on the complexities of our criminal justice system.

Chris Atkins, the author, brings a unique perspective, an unflinching eye, and a dark sense of humor to these hidden stories. With his engaging writing style, he exposes the underbelly of the British justice system, offering a glimpse into the lives of prisoners and the challenges they face.

"Time After Time" is a captivating and entertaining read that will leave readers both unsettled and enlightened. It is a powerful indictment of the prison crisis that plagues our society, shedding light on the systemic failures that perpetuate reoffending.

The book features a diverse range of prisoners who have experienced the extremes of the justice system. From those who have escaped jail by pretending to be their twin brother to those who have lived in luxury hotels for nine months masquerading as the Duke of Marlborough, the stories are both hilarious and shocking. Atkins' access to the criminal underworld provides a rare insight into the minds of these individuals and the factors that contribute to their reoffending.

One of the key themes of the book is the staggering number of reoffenders in the British system. According to statistics, 80% of criminals who receive cautions or convictions are reoffenders, and 46% of ex-prisoners are re-convicted within a year of leaving prison. This costs the taxpayer £18 billion per year, a staggering amount that could be better spent on rehabilitation and prevention programs.

Atkins' investigation reveals the underlying reasons behind these numbers. He explores the systemic flaws in the justice system, such as overcrowding, inadequate rehabilitation programs, and a lack of support for ex-prisoners upon their release. He also exposes the biases and prejudices that exist within the system, which often lead to unfair treatment and discrimination against certain groups of prisoners.

Through his compelling stories and insightful analysis, Atkins challenges readers to think critically about the criminal justice system and its impact on individuals and society. He advocates for a more compassionate and effective approach to rehabilitation and prevention, one that focuses on addressing the root causes of reoffending and providing support for ex-prisoners to reintegrate into their communities.

"Time After Time" is not just a book about prisons; it is a call to action. It is a testament to the resilience and determination of prisoners and their families, and a reminder of the importance of empathy and compassion in our society. It is a powerful reminder that we all have a role to play in creating a more just and equitable criminal justice system, one that values rehabilitation, prevention, and the well-being of all individuals involved.

In conclusion, "Time After Time" is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of the British justice system and the challenges faced by prisoners and their families. It is a powerful indictment of the prison crisis and a call to action for a more just and equitable system. Chris Atkins' unique perspective and engaging writing style make this book a valuable addition to the literature on criminal justice and social reform.

Weight: 600g
Dimension: 234 x 153 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781838954666
Edition number: Main