NCJ Number
111528
Date Published
1987
Length
70 pages
Annotation
Kentucky's intensive supervision program (ISP) was designed to enhance public safety and relieve prison overcrowding by providing an alternative to incarceration for felons.
Abstract
Under ISP, caseloads are limited to 25 clients, and a wide range of sanctions and controls are enforced. Probation and parole conditions govern the residence of the offender, inhibit movements, require regular reporting, forbid the use of alcohol and nonprescription drugs, forbid contact with certain persons or areas, and require participation in treatment programs. There is surveillance, and curfew checks are made in person and by telephone. During the program's second year, 1985-1986, the ISP caseload increased 200 percent to 1,337 cases. Despite this increase, only 17 percent of cases resulted in failures: 15 percent resulted in reincarceration for technical violations, and 2 percent were for a new felony conviction. Probation cases had a 91-percent success rate. Success rates also were higher in rural areas. Of cases, 72 percent were parole cases. Clients were predominantly white, male property offenders with an average age of 29. Total days on ISP varied by type of entry, type of case, outgoing action, and supervisory district. ISP continues to meet its program goals while resulting in substantial savings to the Commonwealth. 19 tables.