NCJ Number
133452
Date Published
Unknown
Length
16 pages
Annotation
Lancaster County (Pa.) has developed a program specifically designed to address the problems of mentally retarded offenders in their interactions with the criminal justice system and the social service system.
Abstract
Funded by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency for 2 years starting in 1980, the project aimed to identify the population, increase the use of community services, increase employment, reduce recidivism, and provide training for criminal justice personnel. Training of criminal justice personnel was the first priority. The Special Offender Services program rests on the philosophy that most adult and juvenile offenders who are mentally retarded are accountable for their actions and therefore have the right to be arrested. To operate the program, the criminal justice and social service systems have combined resources and professionals to rehabilitate offenders so that they successfully complete probation or parole. Developing social skills and self-confidence and learning constructive recreational activities are a major focus of the program. During the past 9 years, recidivism for program participants has been 5 percent. The results have shown that the program is cost-effective and that, with special intervention, citizens with mental retardation can be better prepared for appropriate community life. 4 references