MAKE ALTERNATIVE SENTENCES THE RULE, NOT THE EXCEPTION

It seems every time Pennsylvania faces a budget crunch, the
astronomical cost of incarceration is exposed.

Predictably, increased utilization of alternative sentences occurs as
a means of diffusing the financial crisis created by mandatory
sentencing laws and other ineffective, ''get tough on crime'' measures.

After decades of recycling this dysfunctional dance, it's about time
we start to address causes. Taxpayers can no longer afford the luxury
of perpetuating the myth that harsher punishment rehabilitates
criminals, especially those with addictions.

Here's a thought: Maybe if we make alternative sentences the rule,
rather than the exception, we won't find ourselves revisiting this
issue.

Bruce J. Walters

Allentown