NCJ Number
227956
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 71 Issue: 3 Dated: June 2009 Pages: 18-20
Date Published
June 2009
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article outlines a reentry plan for offenders released from prison that begins with conviction.
Abstract
During pretrial supervision, defendants should receive assessment regarding their criminogenic and job-assessment needs. If a defendant is convicted, these assessments should be shared with prison officials. Prison officials should then encourage inmates to become involved in programs that address the needs identified in the assessment. Focus should be upon preparation for employment, since studies have shown a critical link between reentry success and employment. Employment after release from prison is not only facilitated by vocational training while in prison, but also by collaboration between private businesses and correctional agencies that will encourage private businesses to view ex-offenders as trained and productive employees who are highly motivated to succeed in living responsible lives. The Urban Institute's monograph entitled, "Putting Public Safety First" offers recommendations for enhancing parole supervision. One recommendation is to define reentry success as recidivism reduction, which should be achieved through risk reduction and behavioral change strategies rather than through surveillance and control. Another recommendation is to base conditions of supervision on parolees' criminogenic needs. Other recommendations are to focus resources on moderate-risk and high-risk parolees; engage partners to expand intervention capabilities; institute case plans that balance surveillance and treatment; and incorporate incentives and rewards into supervision processes. Progress in matching interventions and services to the risk level and criminogenic needs of parolees should be regularly monitored and evaluated. 24 notes