The Rand study examined probation's purpose, the recidivism rate among adult felony probationers, the way courts decide whether to imprison offenders or to put them on probation, methods to improve this decision-making process, and the use of intensive supervision probation services. The study found that 65 percent of the 1,672 male felony probationers studied were rearrested. Fifty-one percent were convicted, and 34 percent were sent to jail or prison. The study also concluded that probation was inadequately funded for the amount and kind of work it was expected to accomplish. Although no new probation programs have been implemented in Los Angeles County as a result of the Rand report, the chief probation officer indicates the Rand report has helped bring probation's financial dilemma to public attention. The study findings show that probation must exercise more effective surveillance and control over some probationers if recidivism is to be significantly reduced. This involves not only smaller caseloads and increased probationer-officer time spent with clients, but the use of new surveillance techniques such as electronic monitoring. This requires a greater investment in probation than many jurisdictions have thus far provided. Probation can be an effective alternative to costly jail and prison sentences that yield minimal rehabilitative results, but probation must be restructured and financed to provide the intensive supervision and control required for public protection.