NCJ Number
93859
Date Published
1983
Length
13 pages
Annotation
In addition to presenting the background, objectives, organization, and funding of the Texas Adult Probation Commission, this report presents Texas probation statistics, economics, program descriptions, and future plans.
Abstract
The Texas Adult Probation Commission is charged with establishing uniform State probation standards as well as providing for and improving adult probation services through the disbursement of State aid to local adult probation departments in compliance with State standards. Specific objectives are to provide alternatives to incarceration through financial aid for (1) the establishment and improvement of adult probation services, (2) community-based correctional programs, (3) restitution centers, and (4) facilities other than jails or prisons, as well as to assist local adult probation departments choosing to implement and maintain pretrial diversion programs. Regarding the appointment of Commission members, the Chief Justice of the Texas Supreme Court appoints three of the district judges and two of the citizen members, while the Presiding Judge of the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals appoints the remaining members. Each member serves 6 years. The Commission employs an executive director whose qualifications comply with those for a probation officer as well as having a minimum of 2 years experience in the administration and supervision of adult probation services. As a State agency, the Commission receives the bulk of its funding from State general revenue appropriated by the legislature biennially. The programs supported by the Commission include intensive supervision, residential services, case classification, a project for recidivist drunk drivers, and the inservice training of probation officers. Future plans are to establish restitution centers, enhance intensive supervision, continue support for specialized caseloads, fund the preparation of felony presentence reports, and expand the number of training staff. The following statistics cover 1978-1985 (by year): success rate average, caseload ratios (officers to probationers), total adults on probation, total felony probationers, and total misdemeanor probationers. Economic data cover 1979-1983 and include costs per day per probationer and per prison inmate, restitution paid victims, court costs paid, and probation fees paid.