Instead of punishing people for their poverty or addictions, the underlying socio-economic issues have to be addressed. An unconditional basic income or free public transportation are much more likely to meet the basic human needs behind offenses than additional punishment. Locking people up is wrong and should under no circumstances be relegated to an automated process. In general, a deeper discussion is warranted around why certain acts are criminalized and why punishment is accepted as a way to address socio-economic problems.
