NCJ Number
198866
Journal
Federal Probation Volume: 66 Issue: 3 Dated: December 2002 Pages: 55-58
Editor(s)
Timothy P. Cadigan
Date Published
December 2002
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This author describes a model program to aid effective reintegration of offenders into society emphasizing collaboration within the segments of the criminal justice system.
Abstract
In order to avoid further harm to the community, this author describes how society can aid offenders in their return to its midst by providing for positive change. A brief review of material published on this subject is provided. A paradigm shift is described as being needed, one that accepts the fact that prison or jail seldom if ever has changed behavior. This entails a need to revisit mandatory sentencing, local policies on parole and probation violations, redirect financial resources to a network of more effective community correction centers, and halfway houses, and offer judges a menu of various intermediate sanctions to impose in lieu of incarceration. Focus areas include building a true criminal justice system, coalition building with non-criminal justice agencies, restorative justice programs, program evaluation, and a model in progress in Massachusetts, a collaborative process between the community correctional and institutional correction staffs plus various public and private agencies in the area to help provide the returning offender with a safety net of needed services. It is this model that the author advocates in his conclusion. A source list of references is included.