NCJ Number
158405
Journal
Perspectives Dated: (Spring 1991) Pages: 40-44
Date Published
1991
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This study was conducted to gain a clearer understanding of the role and function of community probation and parole agencies and drug abuse treatment programs in selected areas.
Abstract
As the initial needs assessment phase of a joint venture by the American Probation and Parole Association and the National Association of State Alcohol and Drug Abuse Directors, the study was planned as an initial step toward developing coordinated interagency drug training and technical assistance activities and was implemented with several objectives in mind. A major objective was to better describe and understand coordinating activities between probation and parole agencies and drug abuse treatment providers. The study focused on roles, coordination, client assessment and treatment, drug testing, confidentiality, and evaluation and training. About 75 percent of probation and parole officer respondents indicated their primary role in managing drug offenders was control rather than treatment. Certain factors inhibited communication between probation and parole agencies and treatment providers, but 44 percent of respondents said sanctions were agreed upon with treatment providers before sanctions were imposed. About one-third of respondents reported their agencies conducted drug abuse assessments, and more than two-thirds felt drug treatment services were appropriate for offenders. Almost all respondents indicated drug testing was used for offenders. Although 70 percent of probation and parole agencies provided orientation to confidentiality laws, 76 percent of respondents said confidentiality limitations were imposed by treatment personnel. Joint training involving probation and parole agencies and drug abuse treatment program staff was available in only 12 percent of jurisdictions, but training was offered in 65 percent of jurisdictions. 12 references and 4 tables