What is the purpose of prisons maintained by federal and state governments?

The primary purpose of prisons maintained by federal and state governments is the confinement of convicted felons. These institutions serve as a means of enforcing criminal justice by removing individuals from society who have been found guilty of serious offenses through due legal processes. Upon conviction, offenders are sentenced to serve time in prison, which is intended to serve multiple purposes, including punishment, deterrence of crime, and public safety.

While other functions like housing individuals awaiting trial, providing education and rehabilitation programs, or engaging in community service may occur in various correctional settings, they do not encapsulate the main purpose of prisons. Prisons are specifically designed for the long-term confinement of those who have already been adjudicated guilty of crimes, ultimately aiming to facilitate their rehabilitation and reintegration into society, even if that aspect is often a secondary goal compared to confinement and punishment for the crime committed.