Understanding the Hidden Costs of the Criminal Justice System
Grab Your Calculators. We’re Going to Jail.
In the video above, we introduce viewers to a character named Mike. While he may not be a real individual, he represents a composite of countless experiences faced by individuals navigating the complexities of the American criminal justice system. His challenging journey is not merely fictional; it draws upon factual data and real-world narratives that many endure.
Mike serves as a guide through a lesser-known and often overlooked aspect of punishment: criminal justice fees. These fees are imposed at various stages of the judicial process, from the moment of arrest to incarceration. They can be substantial, such as the costs associated with posting bail, or seemingly minor, like the fees charged for medical visits while in prison. However, these costs accumulate rapidly and can lead to overwhelming debt.
Our narrative surrounding Mike allows us to illustrate the numerous ways in which these fees are extracted from individuals entangled in the justice system. But why should we be concerned if someone who breaks the law is required to cover certain costs? The answer is straightforward: these fees can have devastating effects on people’s lives.
It’s important to clarify that we are not discussing fines, which are monetary penalties imposed by judges on offenders, nor are we talking about restitution, which aims to compensate victims for their losses. Instead, we focus on fees, which function more like predatory taxes designed to generate revenue for governmental entities. These fees can differ widely, varying from state to state, city to city, and institution to institution.
The economic impact of these fees can be severe, especially for individuals who are often already financially vulnerable when they encounter the legal system—an unfortunate reality for many who face legal issues. The debts incurred can lead to a cascade of negative consequences, including:
- Destruction of credit scores
- Inability to vote
- Challenges in securing employment
- Difficulty in obtaining housing
In summary, the hidden costs associated with criminal justice fees can perpetuate cycles of poverty and disenfranchisement, making it crucial for society to recognize and address these issues.
