NCJ Number
72230
Date Published
1979
Length
125 pages
Annotation
A comparative analysis of five deferred prosecution programs which have been implemented in Michigan is presented; operational, procedural, and outcome differences are emphasized.
Abstract
The case study method was employed for examination of the programs. Specific evaluation objectives included providing detailed descriptions of each program, comparing the referral and acceptance processes, analyzing and comparing the referral and acceptance processes, analyzing and comparing the diagnostic and treatment services, and focusing upon characteristics of terminated client populations. The three major data collection efforts included documentation of processes and procedures, individual client data, and client recidivism data. Intake data were collected for 1,479 cases, and recidivism data were collected for 1,039 cases. Statistical techniques utilized in data analysis involved frequency distributions, cross tabulations, percentile comparisons, and other techniques. It is concluded that deferred prosecution programs have been dealing as intended with a nonpatterned, nonviolent offender population. Projects have been successfully utilizing screening procedures in their intake process. Deferred prosecution is a viable dispositional alternative to traditional processing through the criminal justice system. However, conclusive evidence is lacking to determine whether the observed project results are a function of the types of clients accepted into programs, the types of services provided, or the interaction between them. Additional research is suggested in this area. Figures, tables, appendixes, footnotes, and 13 references are included in the study.