NCJ Number
243268
Date Published
May 2009
Length
27 pages
Annotation
This report details the development and validation of Virginia's pretrial risk assessment instrument, and provides information for pretrial services agencies in Virginia to conduct pretrial risk assessments of defendants.
Abstract
This report details the development and validation of Virginia's pretrial risk assessment instrument as required under the Code of Virginia, and provides information for pretrial services agencies in the State to conduct pretrial risk assessments of defendants. Pretrial services agencies in Virginia are required by State code to "supervise and assist all defendants placed on pretrial supervision by any judicial officer to ensure compliance with the terms and conditions of bail." Pretrial services officers are required to investigate and interview defendants being considered for bail and to present a pretrial investigation report with recommendations to assist courts in discharging their duties relating to bail consideration. This information in this report is divided into three main sections. The first section provides information on the development of the assessment instrument, while the second section details the method used to validate it. The third section of the report provides instructions on how to use the VPRAI (Virginia Pretrial Risk Assessment Instrument), including information on determining eligibility and screening of defendants. Detailed instructions are also provided on completing the VPRAI including information needed for each step of the process. Figures and appendix