Forgotten Reformer

This book examines Robert McClaughry's impactful career in criminal justice reform, highlighting his contributions to modern practices and policies. Forgotten Reformer is a significant exploration of this legacy.

The book Forgotten Reformer delves into the transformative journey of criminal justice practices in late nineteenth-century America, focusing on the influential career of Robert McClaughry. As a prison warden, chief of police in Chicago, and a reformatory superintendent, McClaughry played a pivotal role in shaping reform movements that continue to echo in contemporary discussions about justice and rehabilitation. His efforts were not limited to juvenile offenders; he successfully advocated for the integration of reformative principles into adult prison systems, emphasizing the need for a more humane approach to incarceration.

In Forgotten Reformer, readers will discover how McClaughry's vision led to the establishment of innovative practices such as probation, parole, and new sentencing structures. His commitment to reform extended to the creation of the first identification bureaus in the United States, utilizing the Bertillon system to enhance criminal identification. These initiatives laid the groundwork for modern identification methods and contributed significantly to the evolution of law enforcement and corrections.

Additionally, McClaughry's involvement in the founding of the National Association of Chiefs of Police and the National Prison Association highlights his dedication to professionalizing the fields of policing and corrections. The book emphasizes how McClaughry's legacy continues to influence current reform debates, making Forgotten Reformer an essential read for anyone interested in the history of criminal justice reform in America.