This issue makes for quite an interesting topic. I'll chime in, even though I'm relatively new to the server.
My character apparently has a tendency of getting into prison a fair bit for his lifetime ICly. As someone who wishes to start out and interact with the world and criminal environment, I would require funds, as the value of the currency is literally nothing. And start-up crime really doesn't pay. (We can't all be cops.) Most expensive burgers of my life. But I digress.
First and foremost, time spent in prison with active interaction (non-afk at least) is really long. I understand devoted RPers tend to lean towards OOCly reprimands, but doing an entire IRL work shift within a single prison sentence is just hilarious. RP or not, a game is still a game and it should incentivize people to do SOMETHING. These should be shortened to something far more reasonable, while at the same time making it a memorable experience. My first visit was kinda cool, 4 hours but the guards were plenty and interacting. Still, it's 4 out of my daily 24, and I'd seriously prefer to spend them with my friends, rather than random 'REEEEE' individuals.
Suggestion? Reading rights is cool, but why not make a court hearing? Having a lawyer would be neat, and actually getting trialed awesome. Might get you bailed out too! Given that you are detained during that time period, it should be taken into consideration while calculating the sentence. It sure beats getting screamed at by other prisoners who just want to DM, and you can't really make a case or report every time that happens. Time consuming for the admins, breaks the RP atmosphere... all the usual jazz.
Maybe implement a prison tattoo artist? Designs you can only get in prison (that perhaps prevent you from getting a 'normal' job would be awesome tho'). Prejudice is kinda real.
To make it up for lessening the time spent in prison, a system can be created which prevents a person from getting 'normal' employment. Who would let a hard-core robber drive and refill ATMs anyway? Governmental side can take care of those yearning ICly for the civilian lifestyle to apply for a 'reform' maybe?
Understandable, mania-like behavior should not be tolerated. To be fair, that stands for IRL as well. Nobody can be an embodiment of insanity, and foster positive RP vibes that way. But for now, prison is just a huge time sink, most of the people are AFKing or DMing, and real life enjoyment of gaming should not be reprimanded when there are many other ways to penalize criminal behavior other than actually wasting time of individuals dedicated to the server.
Don't crucify me, but 4 to 6 hours and even above? Not everyone has that much free time on their hands, and there are better ways of spending it anyway. Activities while inside? I've seen more admins and mods there trying to contain RP-breaking moments there, than anywhere else.
Anyways, have fun everyone!
