Goodwill - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]
Establishment of goodwill	This goodwill was established in connection with the acquisition of Correctional Alternatives, Inc. ("CAI") during the third quarter of 2013, and the acquisitions of two service companies during 2000.
Goodwill	$ 15,155		$ 16,110
Asset impairment charges	955
Operating income (loss)	68,826	63,066
Winn Correctional Center
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]
Asset impairment charges	1,000
Operating income (loss)	$ (2,500)	$ 200