decarcerate

[ dee-kahr-suh-reyt ]

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of decarcerate¹

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

Example Sentences

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

The random stops are meant to terrorize, said Hunter Demster, organizer for Decarcerate Memphis.

From Seattle Times

“It just so happens that in the case of Tyre, those cameras worked out in that way,” said Chelsea Glass, an organizer with Decarcerate Memphis, a group pushing for overhauling the criminal justice system.

From New York Times