NCJ Number
96222
Date Published
1984
Length
39 pages
Annotation
The Furlough Program of the Oahu Community Correctional Center, designed to facilitate the transition from institutional dependency to economic and social self-sufficiency in the community, was evaluated to assess its relative effectiveness and to identify variables that contribute to participant success or failure.
Abstract
Subjects were 98 sentenced felons admitted to the program since its beginning in 1977 through December 1983. The evaluation measured success according to a participant's functioning as intended at whatever program level he was found during the evaluation period. A total of 67 (68 percent) clients remained successful in the program as of December 31, 1983. Thirty-four (35 percent) of the 98 furloughees achieved the extended furlough level, i.e., they were released to live and work independently in the community. Of the total population, only nine persons committed new crimes. Fifty-seven percent of the subjects had previous juvenile records. There was no significant difference in success and failure by types of crimes committed (last offense). Those with no previous adult convictions were more successful in the program, as were those between the ages of 20 and 30 and those living with a spouse or in common-law arrangements. Also, those with no substance abuse history were slightly more successful. Eighty-three percent of those on work furlough had no misconducts during this period. Over half of those who committed new crimes were either at the extended furlough level or on parole, suggesting that this group succeeded as long as they received structure, monitoring, and support as provided in the earlier levels of the program. On the basis of its 68 percent success rate, the program is deemed highly successful. Tabular data, evaluation instruments, and 27 references are provided.