NCJ Number
137143
Journal
Probation Journal Volume: 38 Issue: 2 Dated: (June 1991) Pages: 63-67
Date Published
1991
Length
5 pages
Annotation
An evaluation of four completed programs provides support for the use of a group program designed to provide a credible non-custodial option and to change offending behavior of house burglars through encounters with victims and prisoners.
Abstract
Only one probationer house-burgled again after participating in the program yielding a reoffending rate of 6 percent. The most recent official figures show reoffending rates after custodial sentences of 62 percent for the 17-20 age group within 2 years. The questionnaires completed before and after the meetings by four groups show victims found the meetings worthwhile and interesting and felt less "angry" and "worried" subsequently. The burglars found the sessions "interesting" and felt that attendance had increased their awareness of the effects of house burglary upon victims. There are major resource implications to running the program including heavier than usual demands on staff resources. 2 references