The Virginia State Crime Commission was directed by legislative mandate to study all areas of public safety including the causes of crimes, ways to reduce and prevent it, and the examination of methods of rehabilitation for convicted criminals.

A comprehensive study of the Virginia correctional system was therefore begun in 1973 and has continued over the past two years. Three major reports detailing the prevailing conditions at the Virginia State Penitentiary, Bland Correctional Farm, and selected field units have been published along with an in-depth study of capital outlay needs for the Department of Corrections. Numerous recommendations for the improvement of the penal system have been included in each of the Commission's reports.

This report is also included with other information as a part of the Annual Report of the State Crime Commission.

Respectfully submitted,

/s/ Stanley C. Walker,
Chairman