NCJ Number
76791
Date Published
1981
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Presented at the 110th Congress of Correction of the American Correctional Association, this paper describes a parole supervision approach based on management by objectives that is used in Kentucky.
Abstract
As resources available to parole and probation supervisors decline, administrators must focus on the provision of basic services rather than trying to find the most innovative method for carrying out activities. To meet current needs, a supervision system should be uniform and should provide opportunities to hold parole officers accountable. This supervision system, developed in Kentucky, attempts to accomplish the following goals: (1) establish parole supervision uniformity; (2) enhance staff and client accountability; (3) provide a guide for developing a formal case management training program; (4) provide a basis for discussion with the community, legislators, and corrections officials about supervision practices; (5) provide support for future staffing and budgetary requests; and (6) provide realistically defined expectations for the offender on parole. The program consists of three phases. In phase one, the parole officer conducts an assessment of the offender's assets (such as employment potential, financial status, and family relations) and liabilities (weaknesses identified in the areas considered above). The second phase is devoted to establishing goals and objectives designed to deal with the problems identified in phase one. The offender and parole officer come to agreement on the ability of each goal to realistically deal with a specific problem, and measurable objectives are written. During the third phase, the parole officer prepares an objectives-based supervision plan stemming from the goals and objectives established during the first two phases.