The main distinction between federal and state prison is that federal prisons are managed by the Federal Bureau of Prison, while state prisons are managed by the state. Furthermore, federal prisons house white-collar criminals, whereas state prisons hold more hardcore criminals.
Key Takeaways
- Federal prisons are managed by the Federal Bureau of Prison, while state prisons are managed by the state.
- Federal prisons house white-collar criminals, while state prisons hold more hardcore criminals.
- State prisons are considered more dangerous due to housing a higher number of violent criminals.
What is a Federal Prison
Federal prisons accommodate individuals who violate federal laws. The federal prison system was established under President Hoover in 1930 when the federal government began building federal incarceration facilities. The federal system was needed due to a rise in crimes that violated federal laws. Federal prisons operate according to different security levels, such as low, medium, or high security. Most inmates in federal prisons are drug peddlers and political prisoners. Those committing bank robberies and white-collar crimes are also sent to federal prisons.
What is a State Prison?
State prisons are maintained by state authorities. Violent offenders, such as murderers, rapists, and other criminals guilty of gun-related offenses are sent to state prisons. Thus, they are considered to hold more violent criminals.
State prisons are typically isolated from their surrounding cities and are enclosed by high walls and other security features. There are more state prisons in the US than federal prisons.
What is the Difference Between Federal and State Prison?
Federal prisons are managed by the Federal Bureau of Prison, while state prisons are managed by the state. Moreover, federal prisons hold white-collar criminals, whereas state prisons hold more hardcore criminals. Thus, state prisons are often considered unsafe as they house a higher number of violent criminals. In addition, there are more state prisons in the country than federal prisons. However, federal prisons have higher levels of security than state prisons.
Summary – Federal vs State Prisons
State prisons and federal prisons are two types of prisons in the US. Those who violate federal law are sent to federal prisons, while those who violate state laws are sent to state prisons. The difference between federal and state prison stems from the type of prisoners they hold, their management, security, and facilities.
