Effectiveness of the New Intensive Supervision Programs

• NCJ Number: 121077
• Journal: Research in Corrections Volume: 2 Issue: 2 Dated: (September 1989) Pages: complete issue
• Author(s): J M Byrne; A J Lurigio; C Baird; G Markley; D Cochran; G S Buck
• Date Published: 1989
• Length: 76 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Publication Format: Document
• Publication Type: Issue Overview
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

The effectiveness of a variety of intensive supervision programs is measured.

Abstract

The goals of intensive probation supervision (IPS) include alleviating prison overcrowding, keeping families intact, and reducing opportunities in recidivism. IPS is characterized by coordinated, focused, and extensive supervision. The types of offenders considered for possible placement into IPS programs include nonviolent offenders, drug offenders, and probation and parole violators. Other intensified community corrections programs are house arrest, electronic monitoring, residential community corrections, and split-sentencing options. Evaluations of Georgia, New Jersey, and Massachusetts IPS programs indicate that the programs cost more than traditional forms of supervision, do not appear to reduce recidivism, and may in fact contribute to the prison and jail overcrowding problem. The lack of clarity in policy development, implementation, and evaluation of IPS programs increases their cost and decreases their effectiveness. 9 tables, 3 figures, bibliography.