New York Times Article, "Incarceration Helped Reduce Crime," by Michael Rushford, Author Challenges Past Diversion Programs . He points out, “…after 45,000 criminals were placed in [California’s] program, California’s violent crime rate had increased by 218% compared to the national increase of 198%.” Rushford argues that criminals are more likely to act again if they are spared harsh punishments. However, we must expect increased crime rates if we are not willing to treat the mental illness endured by countless criminals. Simply putting criminals in prison has no value for anyone, as the individual and society suffer the consequences