decarcerate

American  

[dee-kahr-suh-reyt] / diˈkɑr səˌreɪt /

verb (used without object)

1. to pursue policy or actions aimed at reducing the number of people in prison.

   Local judges are making efforts to decarcerate by replacing prison sentences with time in rehabilitation programs.

---

verb (used with object)

1. to pursue policy aimed at reducing the number of people in prison in (a country or region).

   We aim to decarcerate our state by repealing mandatory minimum sentencing laws.

2. to free from prison.

   The county has moved to decarcerate prisoners being held for possession of marijuana.

Etymology

Origin of decarcerate

First recorded in 1900–05; de- ( def. ) + (in)carcerate ( def. )

Example Sentences

Lawmakers haven’t used their legislative power, nor the governor her clemency powers, to decarcerate.

From Slate

The U.S. must commit to two broad-scale efforts to secure the rights of this community: decarcerate and evacuate to ensure that the horrors of Orleans Parish Prison are relegated to history.

From Slate

Emily Harris, co-director of the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights, said the pandemic “showed us that we can decarcerate quickly and safely,” and is proof that more can and should be done.

From Los Angeles Times

Since Jared’s father had gone to federal prison, someone who knew I was working to decarcerate the federal prison system told Jared to call me.

From Los Angeles Times

But the plan — labeled as a motion to “Depopulate and Decarcerate the Los Angeles County Jails” — drew criticism from justice reformers and law enforcement alike.

From Los Angeles Times