Probation in Illinois - Some New Directions

• NCJ Number: 103257
• Journal: Federal Probation Volume: 50 Issue: 3 Dated: (September 1986) Pages: 66-73
• Author(s): G J Bensinger; M Seng
• Date Published: 1986
• Length: 8 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Publication Type: Program/Project Description
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Several factors have made the 1980's one of the most significant decades for probation reform in Illinois: Federal funds for State planning, prison crowding, legislative developments, and trends in felony probation.

Abstract

In 1978, the Illinois Legislature passed several reform measures (signed in 1979 and 1983) that left probation departments under local jurisdiction, but provided for more uniform and standardized procedures set by the State. Salaries for probation officers and administrators are subsidized or paid in full by the State. Minimum employment and promotion qualifications are set by the State, as are hiring procedures. Training programs for personnel are mandated and monitored, and specialized probation services are State-funded. Of Illinois' 102 Counties, 94 have departments with at least 1 full-time probation officer. 21 footnotes and 1 figure.