NCJ Number
150260
Journal
Perspectives Volume: 18 Issue: 4 Dated: (Summer 1994) Pages: 42-46
Date Published
1994
Length
5 pages
Annotation
Data from local probation agencies in three counties in East Texas were examined to determine if a significant change has occurred in the composition of probation caseloads with respect to the seriousness of the offense.
Abstract
The research examined data from 1979 through 1991. During this period, factors that significantly affected Texas probation services included a sharp increase in the number of offenders on probation and the use of prison capacity limits as a result of inmate lawsuits. The analysis revealed that the number of felony probationers increased more than 200 percent during the time period, compared to a much smaller relative percentage increase in the number of misdemeanants. Findings indicated the need to train probation officers to deal with the increasing numbers of felons. Such training should include the legal and mechanical use of firearms and increased emphasis on self- defense training. Proactive forms of intervention such as interpersonal communication or interviewing must also be covered. Training programs also need to assess the quality and quantity of demands placed on probation managers as a result of the expansion in probation and to develop programs that respond to those demands. Probation agencies must also develop adequate information systems and data analyses to avoid devoting resources to reactive strategies instead of providing line officers with meaningful responses to emerging management and service problems. Figures, end note, and 24 references