Megan McArdle’s column (“Oahu cell gives insight on criminal justice reform,” Star-Advertiser, Jan. 2) added first-hand experience to the subject of Kat Brady’s commentary, “State fails at inmate rehabilitation” (Star-Advertiser, Island Voices, Dec. 5). Both speak to the critical need for prison reform.

Certainly, it’s well documented that more prisons aren’t the answer for our failing system of justice. On the other hand, treatment programs and transitional shelters have proven to be much more effective and less expensive than incarceration. This is especially true of those who have used drugs.

There is also documentation that supports restorative programs in prisons rather than the more costly, dehumanizing retribution programs; they work for those in prison because of non-violent behavior and could probably work for those guilty of violence.

It seems that reforming the justice system has two major components: Changing the criminal code to reduce the number sent to prison, and transforming incarceration from punishment to rehabilitation. More bridges and fewer walls.

John Heidel

Kailua

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