NCJ Number
192015
Journal
Violence Against Women Volume: 7 Issue: 10 Dated: October 2001 Pages: 1164-1185
Date Published
October 2001
Length
22 pages
Annotation
Using data from a sample of discharged Illinois adult probationers, this study compared the probationers' profiles, sentencing conditions, and outcomes for those convicted of domestic violence and other violent crimes.
Abstract
The sampling frame for this 1997 study included every adult probationer discharged from supervision during a 4-week period in November and December 1997. Domestic violence offenders included those 124 probationers in the overall sample placed on probation following a conviction for domestic violence. In Illinois, domestic violence is generally defined as an act of physical abuse, including intimidation or harassment against family or household members of persons involved in a dating relationship. The category for other violent crimes included the 287 probationers in the sample convicted and placed on probation for other violence offenses, including sex offenders, assault/battery, and a variety of other violent crimes. Analyses revealed a number of differences between the two groups, particularly regarding prior substance abuse histories, the length and conditions of probation sentences, and the degree to which probationers committed new offenses against their original victims. Regarding traditional measures of probation outcomes -- such as rearrests, technical violations, and probation revocations -- there were no differences that could be attributed to the conviction offense. The findings have implications for future research on how domestic violence offenders should be handled in probation. This sample of domestic violence offenders tended to receive relatively short periods of probation supervision; and despite treatment being frequently ordered, they were more likely to revictimize the same individuals than other violent offenders, even while under correctional supervision. 5 tables and 28 references