NCJ Number
182738
Journal
Crime Victims Report Volume: 3 Issue: 6 Dated: January 2000 Pages: 81-94
Date Published
2000
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article examines suggested amendments of the Interstate Compact (ISC) for the Supervision of Parolees and Probationers.
Abstract
The ISC is the formal accord among the 50 States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands to oversee the transfer of adult parolees and probationers across State lines. The ISC currently is responsible for the controlled movement of more than 250,000 parolees and probationers. It authorizes convicted offenders to transfer if they have visible means of support, had been residents of the receiving State prior to conviction or have families in the receiving States. However, the ISC is outdated, poorly funded, has limited ability to enforce compliance and permits oversights as a result of officials’ lack of familiarity with rules and procedures. A revised draft of the ISC addresses issues that impede the proper functioning of the existing compact in funding; a secure and integrated national database; clear definitions of terms; training; accountability; and compliance. In addition, it describes roles for crime victims and victims’ advocates at State and national levels. The Revised Compact ensures opportunity for input and timely notice to victims and to jurisdictions where defined offenders are authorized to travel and to relocate across State lines.