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Dr. Joseph Roy, former superintendent of the Bethlehem Area School District, was our guest speaker at our January 23, 2025 meeting where he shared his experiences volunteering at the Northampton County Prison since his retirement. He has created a discussion group to assist inmates prepare for reentry into society. Dr. Roy indicated that the prison's minimum security unit, where he is working, has limited resources and services for inmates, many of whom are in for parole or probation violations, drug and alcohol DUI charges and are awaiting adjudication of their cases. He highlighted the challenges inmates faced in maintaining communication with the outside world and accessing information about available resources. Dr. Roy emphasized the importance of inmates being productive while incarcerated to improve their chances upon release. He discussed the challenges faced by defendants in the criminal justice system, particularly those who are unable to bail out at arraignment, noting that 65% of defendants are unable to bail out, and the cost of bail can be prohibitive.
Dr. Roy shared his experiences and observations from working in the minimum security prison unit. He noted the unique culture among the inmates, who despite being strangers, worked effectively together and supported each other. They were willing to participate in discussions, reflecting on their lives and challenges. Dr. Roy emphasized the challenges facing the inmates for reentry into the community after being incarcerated, as lives were disrupted and inmates had to start anew. 80% of criminal cases are settled prior to trial, and the average number of days for a case resolution is 90 to 180. He emphasized the high recidivism rate of 65% and the difficulties faced by defendants in accessing resources such as cell phones, email, and housing upon release. Dr. Roy stated that the criminal justice system can be a vicious cycle, with defendants unable to escape the costs and restrictions imposed upon them.
CLICK HERE to see Dr. Roy's presentation.