Audit finds unequal spending on Utah inmate education

SALT LAKE CITY — A newly released audit has found the state is spending more on inmate education programs than on traditional adult education clients.

The Salt Lake Tribune reports the audit of the Utah State Office of Education shows there is little data on how academic achievement boosts job prospects or reduces recidivism rates.

The audit found some inmates take hours of classes that provide little advancement, while others continue education after earning diplomas, consuming resources officials say could be used to help other inmates or spent on other programs.

Prison administrators say the education programs have benefits beyond just working to reduce recidivism rates and offering inmates set to be released a path to employment. They say it helps manage inmates and their behaviors by keeping them engaged and avoiding confrontations.