Female Inmate Population Growth One of the growing problems facing the correctional profession today is the increase in female offenders. The rate of growth for female inmates far exceeds their male counterparts. Mecklenburg County has not been immune to the growth. In 1997 the average daily female population was 110 inmates, and currently the average is 145.
Growth is only one aspect of the problem.
Female offenders also have special needs unique to their gender differences and they are more likely to have been physically, emotionally, and sexually abused prior to incarceration. Correctional officials, decision-makers, and public officials must be prepared to face the challenge of growth and meet the special needs of female inmates. Agencies must gather and share information to enhance knowledge and guide decision-making. This report has been created to provide a comprehensive profile of the female inmates in Mecklenburg County. The report includes a wide variety of information pertaining to demographics, social history, criminal history, and mental health information.