NCJ Number
133447
Journal
American Jails Volume: 5 Issue: 5 Dated: (November-December 1991) Pages: 74-78
Date Published
1991
Length
5 pages
Annotation
The position of minimum security facilities in the criminal justice system maximizes the need for comprehensive chemical dependency treatment programs and the effectiveness of those services once they are offered. In Elkhart County (Indiana), the Work Service Program -- comprised of work release, a community restitution program, a wide range of educational services, an electronic monitored day supervision program, and an intensive chemical dependency treatment program -- is one of the best recognized programs in the State.
Abstract
While there was early recognition of the need for chemical dependency treatment, initial efforts consisted solely of sending offenders to Alcoholics Anonymous meetings. It soon became clear that many offenders needed a different type of program. As a result, a 4-part model was developed to address the unique needs of chemical dependency treatment in a minimum security facility. The assessment consists of a personal interview, use of a wide range of testing instruments, initial drug screen, and diagnosis and recommendations. Because of the high denial in most offenders, the motivation section is essential to the entire success of this model. The third step, intensive treatment, is seen as a goal rather than an end. It includes group therapy, education, family participation, recreation, Alcoholics and Narcotics Anonymous, and individual reading and writing assignments. Finally, an individualized aftercare program is developed by each participant and is implemented even before the offender is discharged from the addiction treatment program. The offenders have made community contacts, attended community programs, found sponsors, and developed clearly defined goals and plans.