NCJ Number
209473
Journal
Probation Journal Volume: 50 Issue: 1 Dated: March 2003 Pages: 59-71
Date Published
March 2003
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This section of the journal provides summary descriptions of six probation-related studies authorized by the British Home Office.
Abstract
The first study evaluated the use and implementation of Antisocial Behavior Orders (ASBO) after 2 years (April 1999 through September 2001). ASBO's are civil orders that can be used for any person over 10 years old who engages in behavior "likely to cause harassment, alarm, or distress to one or more persons not of the same household." A second study examined the uses of the polygraph in sex offender work. Ongoing research in Britain continues to support the view that the polygraph could have an important role in both the treatment and supervision of sex offenders on probation and license. A third paper reports on the proceedings of a hate crime conference in which representatives of various criminal justice agencies focused on how they are managing offenders charged and/or convicted of hate crimes. The fourth report presents evidence of the effects on crime of improved street lighting and the use of closed-circuit television in the surveillance of parking lots. The effectiveness of both measures was confirmed, particularly when used in conjunction with other crime prevention measures. The fifth report reviews evidence on what constitutes effective probation work with Black and Asian offenders, with a view toward contributing to the development of a "pathfinder program." The sixth report presents findings from a survey of public attitudes toward the criminal justice system. Survey findings suggest that the provision of information improves citizen knowledge about and confidence in the criminal justice system. Further, findings support the view that increasing punishment levels is not required to increase public confidence in the system.