NCJ Number
91393
Date Published
1982
Length
0 pages
Annotation
Presentations discuss the development and use of the Michigan Department of Correction's statistical-risk-screening instrument in corrections decisions impacting recidivism as well as the development and use of Calhoun County, Michigan's instrument for reducing recidivism among juvenile probationers in a cost-effective manner.
Abstract
The statistical-risk-screening instrument developed by the Michigan Department of Corrections requires the coding of all males entering the corrections system according to variables determined to be related to recidivism. The variables were identified through a literature review and a study of half the parolees released in 1971 in Michigan. Variables found to be important in determining recidivism were the nature of offenses, the severity of offenses, and whether first arrest occurred before the age of 15. The instrument has been useful in deciding whether to release persons to halfway houses prior to parole eligibility and whether to parole persons. According to measures of recidivism of persons released on parole or to halfway houses before and after the use of the instrument, the use of the instrument has improved decisionmaking. The development of the recidivism instrument for juveniles in Calhoun County grew out of a need to develop more cost-effective procedures for managing juvenile offenders in the face of limited financial resources. In identifying youth who posed varying risks for recidivism, it was possible to reduce the number of youth institutionalized and determine the level of supervision required while on probation. The procedure not only cut costs significantly but reduced juvenile recidivism by 27 percent from 1977 through 1981. It is advised that the instrument may not be valid for other jurisdictions, since it was developed in a sample of Calhoun County juvenile offenders. Workshop questions and answers are included on the tape.