This passage examines the view that the punishment of criminals is the underlying aim of the criminal justice system, rather than rehabilitation. When looking at the criminal justice system in the United Kingdom, statistics suggest that those convicted of crimes are more likely to re-offend if given a prison sentence than any other sentence, such as community orders or mandatory alcohol or drug dependency support. In addition, those with dependency problems are more likely to further develop their dependency in prison. However, many sectors of society continue to see non-custodial sentences as the ‘easy way out’ for offender. In this way, the underlying aim of the criminal justice system continues to be attempting to punish rather than rehabilitate.