NCJ Number
149473
Date Published
1994
Length
65 pages
Annotation
This study is based on responses to a survey of State parole and probation agencies, as well as selected large county probation departments, regarding factors related to revocation of probation or parole.
Abstract
The increase in the number of offenders reincarcerated because of probation and parole violations is due to the record number of offenders placed on probation and parole, and to rising revocation rates due to the increased emphasis on surveillance-based supervision and to better ways of detecting violations, particularly drug-use testing. Structured responses to violations typically involve developing written policies, refining procedures, and expanding the range of sanctions applied to violators. While many agencies take a passive approach to absconders, several reforms have intensified efforts to find absconders, including expanded line officer responsibility, new information sources, enhanced fugitive units, and stricter sanctions. The advantages of taking a stronger stance against violators and absconders include better attainment of intended correctional goals, improved efficiency, improved credibility with the public, and improved morale in probation and parole agencies. 1 table and 1 appendix