THE CHALLENGE IN COMBATING THE ACTIONS OF CRIMINAL ORGANIZATIONS WITHIN THE PENITENTIARY SYSTEM

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the structural flaws and obstacles of the Brazilian prison system, with a particular focus on the State of Paraná. By examining the influence of criminal factions and the government’s responses, this study seeks to propose guidelines for more efficient prison management and the reduction of criminal recidivism. The methodology consists of a bibliographical analysis aimed at establishing the historical evolution of factions such as the PCC (First Command of the Capital — one of Brazil’s most powerful criminal organizations) and at examining the applicability of maximum-security regimes such as the RDD (Differentiated Disciplinary Regime) and Italy’s 41-bis regime (a special prison system designed to isolate high-risk inmates from their criminal organizations), as well as successful rehabilitation models, including Brazil’s APAC system and the prison approaches adopted in Norway and the Netherlands. The results show that overpopulation, the policy of mass incarceration, and the ineffectiveness of rehabilitation programs have created an environment conducive to the strengthening and spread of organized crime nationwide. The analysis of the State experience has revealed the failure of reactive measures, such as the outsourcing of prison management and the adoption of supermax regimes (RATP), which did not alleviate the crisis and even allowed the emergence of groups such as the PCP (First Command of the State). In conclusion, this study suggests a differentiated management approach based on the strategic separation of inmates according to their profiles, in order to optimize security and rehabilitation policies. Beyond repression, it is essential that the State intervenes by investing in policies that support intelligence mechanisms, address the structural causes of criminality, and effectively implement alternative sentencing and social reintegration programs.