NCJ Number
150540
Date Published
1994
Length
159 pages
Annotation
This report summarizes research conducted by staff of the Florida Advisory Council on Intergovernmental Relations on a host of intergovernmental issues related to intermediate, community-based criminal sanctions and programs.
Abstract
The intergovernmental emphasis in the research facilitates a greater understanding of how intermediate community-based criminal sanctions and programs fit in the current criminal justice and corrections systems. Some of the intergovernmental impacts are explained, and a current inventory of relevant criminal sanctions and programs in Florida is documented. The study assesses an appropriate intergovernmental statutory framework for using such sanctions and programs to meet needs in the criminal justice and corrections systems. Suggested improvements are highlighted. The report begins by identifying the motivations for and design of community corrections acts from a national perspective. What constitutes community- based and intermediate criminal sanctions is clarified. The emerging forces in Florida that contributed to the implementation of community-based criminal sanctions and programs are explained, while providing both a general and itemized inventory of intermediate, community-based criminal sanctions and programs that are currently available at the State and local levels of government. Study recommendations support continued reliance on community-based, intermediate criminal sanctions through the implementation of an amended Community Corrections Partnership Act. Recommended amendments to the Act focus on adjusting the planning requirements and eligibility for participation without compromising accountability and public safety. Clarification of programs covered by the Act is another recommended change. Education and technical assistance are also keys in the recommendations for improving the Act. As revised, this Act will serve as an effective framework for addressing a wide array of challenges in the criminal justice and corrections systems. Appended study tabular data