NCJ Number
191368
Journal
CTM-Corrections Technology & Management Volume: 5 Issue: 5 Dated: September/October 2001 Pages: 54-57
Date Published
2001
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article profiles the New Zealand Department of Corrections' Integrated Offender Management (IOM) system, which follows the offender from conviction in court through to the completion of his/her sentence.
Abstract
IOM is viewed by corrections managers as a tool to improve the way inmates' sentences are managed. Under IOM, the first step is to establish the offender's risk of reoffending and assess the factors that contribute to his/her offending. A rehabilitative program that provides targeted offenders with basic literacy, numeric, employment, and social skills is also being introduced. Tools developed for IOM include the risk of conviction and risk of imprisonment index, which accurately identifies the risk of reoffending. Also included as part of the IOM is the Criminogenic Needs Inventory (CNI). CNI is a structured form of interviewing that is part of the in-depth behavioral interview. It explores the offender's thoughts, feelings, actions, and even physical responses associated with the offending behavior. It also examines relevant psychological events in the 6 months before the offense. The IOM provides a framework for probation and prison staff to obtain detailed, accurate information on behaviors that led to an individual's offending. Specific areas of assessment are provided for Maori offenders related to their culturally based needs. Part of the assessment process is to determine what is most likely to work in the rehabilitation of each offender. By assessing risk, needs, and response of offenders, the corrections department can develop a sentence plan that is suited to the individual offender.