Corrections – Alternative Sentencing Options

You work for a state judge as an administrative assistant. The judge is a proponent of alternative sentencing options but is frequently criticized for sentencing defendants to home detention, probation, community service etc. She has asked you to prepare an evaluation of the effectiveness of such options because he is scheduled to speak at a judge’s conference dealing with sentencing issues.

1. Prepare a report on the effectiveness of alternative sentencing options and support your conclusions with data on rates of recidivism and savings of tax dollars earmarked for penal institutions.
2. What types of individuals should be considered for such programs? Please include references.

I need ideas and information to get me started. Thank you.