TREATMENT AIDS CONS, STUDY SAYS

Canada's prisons are trying to help those who want to help
themselves, especially drug addicts.

Addiction units have been established at all federal penitentiaries
to help inmates deal with drug and alcohol problems after a pilot
project found those who completed the program were less likely to
return to crime.

"If only 100 offenders participated successfully in the (intensive
support units), the savings would exceed $800,000," says the report,
obtained through an access to information request.

That's because it's much cheaper to supervise an offender in the
community than in prison, said lead researcher Brian Grant.

About 80% of inmates admitted to federal prisons have substance abuse problems.