NCJ Number
154827
Journal
CURA Reporter Volume: 25 Issue: 1 Dated: (March 1995) Pages: 10-13
Date Published
1995
Length
4 pages
Annotation
In a joint venture, University of Minnesota computer simulation experts worked with Hennepin County's Department of Corrections to predict how changes in existing practices would affect probation and parole supervision.
Abstract
In order to maintain caseload integrity, it was decided that probation and parole officer caseloads would not exceed 75 cases at any point in time. Computer simulation offered a way of telling how proposed contact standards would affect caseloads and probation and parole system performance. The computer simulation was designed so that each offender could be represented individually and be tracked through each appointment. Using information collected in Hennepin County, the computer system was loaded with data on a random number of offenders. Offenders were assigned to probation and parole officers based on their arrival type. An event list was used to store essential information about each offender. Different scenarios were used in order to identify changes in probation and parole caseloads. The computer simulation confirmed the need for flexibility in appointment length and demonstrated that probation and parole officer caseloads could not be held to a maximum of 75 offenders. Future work involving computer simulations is suggested. 4 tables and 2 photographs