NCJ Number
130994
Date Published
1990
Length
120 pages
Annotation
This dissertation builds upon past and current research in its examination of the effectiveness of intensive supervision and other intermediate sanctions in reducing drug abuse among nonviolent, substance-abusing offenders.
Abstract
After outlining the basic components of such a policy, this study presents an overview of past research on the links between drugs and crime and on the effectiveness of drug treatment in reducing drug use and criminal activity. The research conducted analyses of recent data on arrestees in 20 American cities collected by the Drug Use Forecasting program. These analyses profiled arrestees who reported they had previous treatment and wanted current treatment. The intent of this research was to determine whether a disparity existed between the expressed need for treatment and the provision of treatment services in this population. Another objective was to identify any disparities between certain subgroups of this population regarding their ever having had treatment of needing treatment. Also identified were any factors that should be addressed in the implementation of a policy that re-routes offenders to treatment and probation. The study then estimated the number of offenders in three cities who would be likely to need treatment services under such a policy and compared these estimates to the current provision of publicly funded treatment services in those cities. The study concludes that nonviolent, substance-abusing offenders can effectively receive intermediate sanctions as an important component of a comprehensive national drug strategy. 7 tables and an 88-item bibliography