Punishment This week’s discussion will continue in the area of punishment, and will look at two very controversial topics: First, consider the idea of conjugal visits for prisoners. Some states allow inmates private visitation time with their spouses. Imagine that you are the warden of a prison that, at present, does not allow conjugal visits for prisoners. You are considering adopting this procedure. What data would you need to gather in order to make an informed decision? After looking at the research, what would you decide? Explain your reasoning. Explain what possible opposition could you face, and whether these programs have disadvantages. Next, consider the case of Dean Claude Odermatt. His conviction for sexual battery on a child carried with it a sentence that includes 25 years in prison and chemical castration upon his release. Is chemical castration an effective sentence for sex offenders such as Odermatt? Only a small number of states allow chemical or surgical castration as punishment. Do you support laws like this?
