NCJ Number
182717
Journal
Journal of Drug Issues Volume: 27 Issue: 2 Dated: Spring 1997 Pages: 379-397
Date Published
1997
Length
19 pages
Annotation
This study evaluated the development, implementation, and effectiveness of a day reporting center (DRC) for drug-using offenders in Cook County, Ill.
Abstract
At the time of the evaluation, the program primarily offered services to African-Americans with limited education and job experience and extensive histories of opiate and cocaine use. Upon referral, participants are assessed and put into a track system. All participants are required to complete the 15-day Track Z orientation program. This track includes assessment, discussion of program expectations, violence interruption programming, AIDS education and prevention, daily drug testing, introductory substance abuse treatment, and treatment readiness services. On the final day, there is a ceremony that recognizes the participants' successful completion of the program. Depending on assessed needs, participants are then assigned to other needed service tracks. The largest proportion of program participants are assigned to track A or track B. Track A cultivates resistance, personal control, and responsibility. This track focuses on substance abuse treatment, anger management, drug testing, and other programming that emphasizes personal control and responsibility. Track B provides intensive outpatient substance abuse treatment services. The evaluation shows that while in the program, participants reduced their drug use, significantly improved the rate of their appearance for court dates, and had a very low rate of arrests on new charges. The program had difficulties in integrating its services with other community services after participants left the program. Conclusions support the use of day reporting programs for drug-using offenders as an effective means to reduce drug use. It is crucial to integrate this type of pretrial service with other needed community services. 4 tables, 4 figures, and 16 references