NCJ Number
154419
Date Published
1994
Length
156 pages
Annotation
This is a report on the evaluation of the Oregon Department of Corrections' objective risk assessment system (RAS), which is designed to govern classification decisions for probationers and parolees statewide.
Abstract
The RAS is an adaptation of the History of Risk Scale, which was originally implemented by the Oregon State Board of Parole in 1977 to guide their release decisionmaking. The overall goals of the system are to classify offenders based on their risk of recidivism, manage the supervision of offenders by using the least restrictive method, and ensure statewide consistency in the classification and management of offenders. The RAS uses two separate risk scales to establish a classification level at admission and to reassess this decision at scheduled intervals throughout the period of supervision. The goal of the validation (evaluation) process was to assess the current performance of the RAS and recommend steps to improve performance. Evaluation criteria were validity (whether the system achieves the goals for which it was designed); reliability (whether it is accurately and consistently applied); equity (whether it is fair and effective in its application to specific groups of offenders); and utility (whether the system is relatively easy to use by those who apply it). Findings show support for the face validity of the current RAS, in that its design is apparently consistent with its stated goals, and the criteria it uses are found in most risk-assessment systems that have been empirically validated in other jurisdictions across the Nation. The system, however has some structural flaws that reduce its utility, and it lacks credibility with staff, based primarily on reliability and utility problems, as well as the lack of any empirical evidence regarding the system's performance. Recommendations for improvement are offered.