The study compared the exit status of probationers and prison-bound offenders in an electronic monitoring home detention program.
The primary purpose of this study was to compare the exit status of probationers and prison-bound offenders in an electronic monitoring home detention program. The study found a significant difference between completion rates for the probation group as compared to the prison-bound group. It was found that probationers were more likely to successfully complete their sentences compared to non-probationers. In addition, the study found that younger offenders from either group were more likely to complete their sentences compared to older offenders; offenders with prior offense records were less likely to complete their sentences, regardless of which group they were in; and offenders from either group with records of prior detention were also less likely to complete their sentences compared to offenders with no record of prior detention. Data for this study were obtained from individual offender case files maintained by the County Community Corrections Office in Palm Beach County, FL. The sample included 246 offenders (124 probationers and 122 prison-bound offenders) sentenced to the EMHD (Electronic Monitoring Home Detention) program and who had completed their sentences during the period 2007 through 2010. The data was analyzed to determine which factors were more likely to affect an offender's ability to successfully complete their sentences. The findings suggest that the courts should use more discretion when sentencing offenders to the EMHD program, especially for those with prior offense and detention records. Table and references