This year's total already is 1,420, Hansen said. He said Portage County deals with overcrowding by putting some prisoners on portable bunks and shipping an average of 11 prisoners per day to the Clark County Jail in Neillsville. One problem is trying to balance lack of room with keeping the community safe, according to officials. But officials stressed that overcrowding is not a determining factor during sentencing. In fact, statutes stipulate that sentences must begin within 60 days of sentencing, he said.
Incarceration also is expensive.
It is gaining insight from court personnel, citizens and providers of human services. Home detention program - Also known as home monitoring and electronic monitoring, options include electronic bracelets worn in the home. Anything that would put them out of range, such as work, must be authorized. With 25 bracelets out of a computerized system that can monitor up to 100 bracelets, Hansen said this option easily could be expanded. Home sobrietors also give law-enforcement officials the capability to monitor if someone has been drinking.