NCJ Number
181827
Journal
Community Corrections Report Volume: 7 Issue: 3 Dated: March 2000 Pages: 33-44
Date Published
March 2000
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article suggests ways to make probation a credible criminal justice sanction.
Abstract
In a public climate that has grown steadily more conservative on crime, probation is poorly positioned--in terms of both know-how and resources--to meet the challenge posed by the amount and high-risk nature of today’s caseloads. Nine key strategies can move probation from an underfunded, unappreciated, and unknown correctional option to one that plays a significant role in the crafting of criminal justice policy and in promoting public safety. Probation should be a system that: (1) reflects the values of American citizens (safety from crime, offenders held accountable and responsible for restitution, treatment and safe release of offenders); (2) emphasizes public safety; (3) includes meaningful supervision; (4) allocates resources rationally; (5) enforces conditions strongly and responds quickly to violations; (6) contains meaningful partnerships; (7) focuses on accountability; (8) includes performance-based initiatives; and (9) displays leadership.