NCJ Number
189574
Date Published
June 2000
Length
288 pages
Annotation
This is an implementation evaluation of the specialized sex offender projects in three Illinois counties.
Abstract
This report presents a process and short term impact evaluation of sex offender probation projects in DuPage, Lake, and Winnebago Counties, IL. Each of these probation units is modeled on the containment approach, which includes intensive supervision of offenders with frequent field searches of offenders' homes, treatment which emphasizes a cognitive-behavioral group therapy approach supplemented with cognitive-behavioral individual counseling, and a partnership between probation officers and treatment providers. The process evaluation examined each unit's program development, implementation, and operation. The assessment of impact was limited to intermediate probation and treatment outcomes. Each program met basic requirements of the containment model, and implemented a well functioning system of sex offender treatment characterized by a team approach of mutual respect and trust. The majority of sex offenders were complying with probation and treatment conditions that are part of their probation order. All three programs were unable to meet their individual home/field visit standards. The report recommends that a revised program model be considered following the Lake County program model but with more realistic supervision/surveillance standards, which should be non-declining. It also recommends that the Probation Division of the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts expand its sex offender training program. Notes, tables, figures, references