I read many examples of why this is acceptable, but they are all based on the concept that lowering the bar is the way, that because there some (many?) bad guys

I read many examples of why this is acceptable, but they are all based on the concept that lowering the bar is the way, that because there some (many?) bad guys then all must accept what for me are incredible life limitations, it seems being imprisoned is not enough. USA prison system is designed to perpetually preserve it self.