An alternative to imprisonment : is combination order effective?

Abstract

Alternatives to imprisonment are a broad concept applied worldwide. They form part of the criminal justice system and, under certain circumstances, are given to offenders instead of incarceration. This research explores different forms of alternatives to imprisonment, their uses and effectiveness. It aims to understand whether these corrective measures, particularly combination order, are locally viewed as a better form of punishment and why they can be considered so. Moreover, the study examines if alternative sanctions provide the offender with a second chance to rehabilitate and reintegrate into society while serving justice for the wrongdoing committed. This study adopts a quantitative research approach through the use of an online questionnaire. The questionnaire was administered among University of Malta (UoM) students above the age of 18. There were 101 respondents in all. The data collected shows that even though the majority of UoM students have an idea of what alternatives to imprisonment are, they are not knowledgeable enough aboutwhat such alternatives entail. Results also show that the majority of respondents believe that the punishment inflicted should be relative to the severity of the crime committed. Above all, participating students agree that alternatives to imprisonment do give the offender a second chance at a better life respectful of law.