Reopening Alcatraz as a Federal Maximum Security Prison

SOURCE www.npr.org
President Trump is ordering federal agencies to rebuild and reopen Alcatraz, the notorious maximum security prison that closed over 60 years ago. The historic former U.S. Penitentiary Alcatraz, also known as 'The Rock,' once housed infamous criminals such as Al Capone. Trump wants to restore Alcatraz to its original dual purpose of housing dangerous and violent offenders.

Key Points

  • Alcatraz to be rebuilt and expanded to house America's most ruthless and violent offenders
  • Original purpose of Alcatraz was to concentrate difficult prisoners in one facility
  • Operating Alcatraz was three times more expensive than other federal prisons due to isolation

Pros

  • Restoring a historic landmark
  • Addressing the issue of housing dangerous criminals
  • Sending a message of law, order, and justice

Cons

  • High cost of construction and operation
  • Challenges of transporting supplies to an island prison