NCJ Number
103680
Date Published
1986
Length
85 pages
Annotation
Developing restitution programs that are both equitable and effective is a complex process that requires particular attention to four issues: (1) choosing an appropriate model of restitution, (2) gaining the commitment and participation of crucial actors, (3) developing procedures to ensure fairness to victims and offenders, and (4) designing strategies to collect the maximum amount of restitution obligations.
Abstract
These conclusions emerged from an analysis of existing literature, discussions with professional organizations and knowledgeable individuals, telephone contacts with 27 restitution programs, and site visits to 6 programs. Restitution, although a straightforward concept, is complicated to implement. Restitution operates through four basic models: (1) as a component of victim and witness assistance programs, (2) as part of victim-offender reconciliation programs, (3) as part of the offender supervision provided by probation or parole services, and (4) as part of court-based employment programs. Each model has advantages and disadvantages. All programs perform the same basic tasks. These include obtaining cases from referral sources, screening cases and applying case criteria, determining the amount of loss arising from the offense, and ordering and collecting restitution. Restitution programs try to achieve economic and psychological goals for victims, reduction in costs and prison caseloads, improved crime reporting and public credibility of the justice system, offender deterrence, reduced recidivism, and reduced intrusion of the justice system in offenders' lives. Little or no research is available regarding the achievement of most of these goals. Tables, chapter notes, list of programs surveyed, and 54 references.