The Corrections Management Industry

Public-Private Partnerships in Corrections

More than 25 years ago, CCA founded the corrections management industry. Today, the company remains the provider of choice in this specialty, partnering with the federal, state and local government as an integral and proven component of their strategic and comprehensive correctional plan. Discussions about the benefits of public-private partnership continue in the media, academia and think tanks. Such partnerships have been forged to provide the public with many other services historically under the exclusive purview of government, such as public utilities, waste management and education. Since being established more than a quarter-century ago, privatized corrections has become a viable means of managing offenders classified at all levels, with unique rehabilitative and daily needs, as well as assisting agencies faced with budgetary shortfalls, inmate overcrowding and staffing deficits. Such alliances enable the public sector to benefit from the efficiencies and innovations of private industry.

Currently, approximately five percent of all offenders in the United States are housed in privately managed correctional facilities. In coming years, independent reports project a steady increase in the nation’s incarcerated population. At such a rate, government agencies are expected to enter into – or expand – partnerships with companies such as CCA, which provides customized corrections management services guided by industry best practices, the high standards of the American Correctional Association, contractual mandates, and fire, health and building codes.

This section features up-to-date studies on cost, quality and safety that suggest private prisons measure up to – and sometimes exceed – governmental performance. This reference center also explains common myths and misconceptions associated with private corrections management. For more information on privatization, corrections organizations and other industry resources, visit the Industry Links section.