NCJ Number
69962
Date Published
1980
Length
139 pages
Annotation
Programs, activities, and statistical information provided by the Nassau County Probation Department of Mineola, New York, are presented; adult and juvenile supervision data for 1979 are emphasized.
Abstract
Predictions that the nation's crime rate would begin to decline in 1979 did not materialize. On the contrary, the year witnessed considerable increases in all categories of crime. In the adult division alone, where the caseload is age 16 and over and the median age is 23, investigative assignments from the courts increased by 27.7 percent, a record high. Among juveniles under age 16, delinquency and status offenses increased by 11.2 percent. Investigations and related activities, e.g., inquiries from other jurisdictions, totaled 29,794 for 1979. In addition, 9,497 cases were supervised during the year. The development of probation programs was a major focus of department activities. All of the programs were made possible by State and Federal monies which came at a time when escalating costs and budget constraints seriously threatened to curtail probation services. The programs include the Probation Employment Program, the Adjudicated Delinquent Restitution Program, the Intensive Supervision Program, and a special warrant unit. In Nassau Couty all administrative staff and programs are under the direct supervision of the director of probation. During the year the department provided training, research, and special projects for staff development. Public information and education efforts included 160 speaking engagements and interviews for the media, students, agencies, and community groups. The 'Dial-A-Teen' program of providing part-time employment for youth between the ages of 14 and 17 is indicative of community service efforts. The department relies heavily upon the involvement and participation of various community groups and agencies to provide community-based alternatives to incarceration. Extensive tables, graphs, and charts are included in the report.