NCJ Number
97742
Date Published
1984
Length
223 pages
Annotation
This text describes a study that examined Texas incarceration rates and changes in the characteristics of admissions to regular probation. The study assessed the diversionary impact of the Texas Intensive Supervision Probation (ISP) program, designed for felony offenders who would have otherwise been incarcerated.
Abstract
The literature on intensive supervision is reviewed, the background of ISP is reported, the Texas program is described, and results of previous evaluations are offered. Attention focuses on the study methodology. The target population consisted of the 4,647 probationers assigned to intensive supervision from September 1, 1981, through August 31, 1983. Two comparison groups were used: (1) a sample of 8,391 regular felony probationers from 5 selected Texas counties placed on probation during the study period and (2) a sample of 44,028 felons admitted to the Texas Department of Corrections (DOC) during the same period. In-program analysis, which compared the intensive probation group with the regular probationers on risk/needs scores, criminal history, and growth trends, is described. Also addressed is a diversionary impact statement, which compared differences between the ISP group and the group at the Texas DOC. The Kolgomorov-Smirnov Two Sample Test, used for between-group comparisons and growth trends, is also described. Results reveal that the ISP probationer was a more serious offender than the maximum-security probationer and that the ISP was serving appropriate offenders, as intended by the legislative mandate. Future evaluation efforts are recommended. Approximately 200 references and 22 tables are included.