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Stocks at the Townsquare

Women who are convicted of certain minor crimes (such as theft, minor drug offenses, drinking and driving, various driving offenses, and similar crimes) are not required to serve time in prison, as are other types of more serious criminals and men. Because various studies have found that women are more affected by public embarassment, and because women are more likely to be needed at home by their families, these women are given a choice of getting thirty days of prison "credit" for each day they choose to serve in the town stocks. For example, a six month prison sentence may be served in less than one week under these circumstances. Unless the prisoner chooses the stocks, there is no requirement that her sentence be served that way. Instead, she may choose the standard prison sentence.

The sentencing process

Over 95% of the women who have the choice select the stocks. By far, the most common reason given for the stocks is to shorten the confinement period. Other reasons given include a desire for true punishment and a desire to be closer to family. For those selecting the stocks, the sentencing process is similar to those who are going to prison. A judge gives the option of stocks once a finding or plea of guilt is made. When the stocks selection is made, a guard then takes the prisoner officially into custody.

Taking the prisoner into custody

Upon order of the judge following imposition of sentence, the prisoner is taken into custody. The prisoner is ordered to remain standing at the defendants table, and is required to stretch her arms out to her sides. A waist chain is wrapped around the prisoner, and the prisoner's hands are locked into the cuffs to the sides. Once that is completed, the prisoners shoes are removed, and leg irons are placed around the prisoner's ankles. The prisoner walks this way to the town square.