NCJ Number
141494
Journal
Large Jail Network Bulletin Volume: 2 Issue: 5 Dated: (September 1991) Pages: 11-13
Date Published
1991
Length
3 pages
Annotation
Although characterized as a "boot camp" program because of the regimented discipline involved, the About Face program of the Orleans Parish Criminal Sheriff's Office (Louisiana) has more rehabilitative components than most boot camp programs.
Abstract
The program has eight key elements: commitment from participants, discipline, one-on-one counseling, substance abuse programs, community service work, education, vocational training, and life skills training. Participants for the program are chosen from sentenced offenders after a rigorous screening process. Typically, an inmate chosen for the program is male, between the ages of 17 and 40 years, who may have up to a 5-year sentence but must have at least 6 months remaining of his sentence. The sentence may be a State or municipal sentence, but must be for a nonviolent offense. The inmate must also be in good physical condition. Trainees become part of a platoon, which initially consists of 30 to 35 trainees. Each platoon begins and ends the program as a unit. Trainees are allowed, with supervision, to participate in activities outside the jail complex. Each platoon is supervised by full-time drill instructors who lead military-style drill and ceremony, conduct inspections, and oversee physical exercise and team athletics. Trainees are expected to stay in the program a minimum of 6 months. Trainees graduate through a 3-platoon system. The first platoon is considered the elite and given the most benefits. The third platoon consists of new pickups and those trainees with attitude and discipline problems. The Sheriff's Office is in the process of developing a precise method of followup to determine the full effect of this program. Initial study, however, indicates a recidivism rate of less than 9 percent for those who have completed the program.