NCJ Number
166145
Date Published
1997
Length
54 pages
Annotation
This report synthesizes the experiences of probation and parole agencies in the United States that have experimented with innovative policy approaches to violations and revocations.
Abstract
The report indicates many probation and parole agencies have begun to reshape how they handle technical violations, due in part to concerns about resources. The experience of these agencies indicates exploring and updating responses to violations can reduce prison admissions and free up local jail space, result in fewer delays in placing offenders into treatment, and result in less burdened court and parole board dockets so that more attention can be focused on more serious violators. In New York, Illinois, Missouri, and South Carolina in particular, changes in probation and parole policies have been associated with better offender outcomes. Each jurisdiction has taken a somewhat different approach to probation and parole violations. The report shares some of what was learned about the violation process, the potential impact of changes, and some of the tools developed to introduce policy-driven consistency in responses. The information is intended to help other jurisdictions evaluate probation and parole violation practices and to provide practical guidance on how changes can be effectively implemented. Appendixes provide supplemental information on the violation process and available sanctions. 19 references, 16 endnotes, and 20 exhibits