NCJ Number
208351
Journal
Criminology & Public Policy Volume: 3 Issue: 4 Dated: November 2004 Pages: 655-686
Date Published
November 2004
Length
32 pages
Annotation
This article reports on an outcome evaluation of Vermont’s Reparative Probation Program.
Abstract
Vermont’s Reparative Probation program is an innovation criminal justice program embedded within small town America. The reparative probation model is similar to other restorative justice models in that it initiates participation of key community stakeholders and embodies a philosophy of community justice. Following a description of Vermont’s program, the outcome evaluation methodology is described as focusing on the four goals of the program: community involvement, address victims’ needs, restore communities, and lower recidivism of offenders. A sample of 245 reparative cases that were terminated in the 2000 calendar year was analyzed; data included administrative database searches, personnel interviews, case files, 40 victim surveys, and 82 community service site surveys. Results of statistical analyses indicated that Vermont’s Reparative Probation Program has been largely successful in meeting its goals. The program engendered a good amount of sustained community participation, evidenced through a sizable volunteer pool. However, victims did not participate to the extent expected, replicating findings from other reparative program evaluations. As such, the restorative nature of the current program is questionable when compared with other restorative practices. The common sanction of community service furthered the goal of restoring communities and offenders were found to largely comply with service obligations. The program did not make regular use of effective correctional treatments that would help develop bonds between the community and offenders. Vermont’s program is compared with other programs around the world and policy implications are discussed. Tables, references