Misuse of Internet Facility in the Prisons

Scott Peterson's case forces us to think whether a prisoner should be allowed internet access, giving the opportunity to interact with the outside world. Scott was convicted for the murder of his pregnant wife, Laci Peterson and may be facing a death penalty. The exclusive video interview of Sharon Rocha, mother of Laci Peterson by CNN highlights how Scott Peterson is writing blogs and creating links to his family websites telling the world that his case is a "wrongful conviction."

The article by Kristina Jones illustrates what people think about this issue. According to a former police officer, internet can be used to manipulate the cases. Prisons are made for punishments and not for spending leisure time. This statement stresses that internet should not be considered a right but a privilege. But should prison be considered only as a place for punishment and not a place that provides rehabilitation? The article by Henry Blodget highlighted the other aspect of correctional centers. Statistics prove that 1 out of every 100 Americans are in prison. Internet is one of the biggest sources of education and can help people make positive changes to their lives. The intention is to make prisoners self dependant who can find jobs and social acceptance once they are released. Internet access can play an important role in redefining their lives as it keeps them connected with the outside world.

Creating websites and blogs have become so common that it can be easily misused by prisoners’ friends and families. These internet interactions can be documented and made accessible to the prisoners. Keeping this in mind, should internet access be blocked for the prisoners or should the severity of crime define the rights & privileges? It can be argued there should be a life behind the bars and a motivation to restart life after the release.

Scott Peterson’s case and similar cases of prisoners creating their profiles on social networking sites are being perceived as a threat to people. What do you think?