
penitentiaries
Penitentiaries are secure facilities where individuals convicted of serious crimes are confined for long-term sentences. They are designed to uphold safety, enforce legal penalties, and rehabilitate inmates through various programs. Penitentiaries typically feature high security measures, including walls, guards, and surveillance, to prevent escapes and ensure order. The goal is to protect society, serve justice, and, where possible, help inmates reintegrate into the community upon release. They differ from jails, which usually hold individuals awaiting trial or serving shorter sentences.