NCJ Number
152656
Journal
Corrections Today Dated: (December 1992) Pages: 80,82,84-87
Date Published
1992
Length
6 pages
Annotation
Based on an examination of more than 70 intensive supervision program (ISP) manuals from probation and parole agencies across the Nation, this analysis focuses on the development, use, and evaluation of ISPs, as well as their future in American corrections.
Abstract
ISPs have three primary goals: diversion from prison, provision of an intermediate sanction, and probation or parole enhancement. Many ISPs have also been established in response to prison overcrowding and shrinking budgets. Every ISP operates on various levels which serve as a built-in system of rewards and sanctions. Offenders selected for ISP participation generally meet the criteria of high risk, record of nonviolent felony offenses, history of drug or alcohol abuse, prison or prison-bound, lengthy criminal record, and willingness to participate. Virtually all programs include frequent offender contact, small caseloads, curfews, house arrest or electronic monitoring, drug and alcohol testing, community service work, graduated sanctions, treatment, and requirement employment. Some ISPs also include victim restitution components, monthly supervision fees, and good-time reward systems. While early ISP evaluations were generally favorable, more recent research indicates that these programs do not relieve prison overcrowding, do not affect recidivism rates, and raise supervision costs, calling into question their continued use without major modifications. 29 references