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Evaluation of the Department of Corrections' Intensive Supervision Program: Executive Summary

NCJ Number
153668
Author(s)
S Orchowsky; N Merritt; K Browning
Date Published
1994
Length
16 pages
Annotation
Virginia's Intensive Supervision Program (ISP) was assessed with respect to its impact on the allocation of correctional resources, the maintenance of public safety, and the provision of services to its clients.
Abstract
The analysis compared a sample of ISP termination cases for FY92 with a matched non-ISP group. Results revealed that ISP is a valuable program that responds to several correctional system needs. ISP offenders receive more supervision and treatment than do offenders on standard community supervision and that 71 percent of probationers on ISP were estimated diversions from incarceration. However, the lack of significant differences between the recidivism rates of ISP and comparable non-ISP offenders, combined with problems related to staffing, training, documentation, and resource allocation, indicate a need to modify the program. Improved management and operation would increase overall effectiveness and efficiency. Specific areas recommended for further study, modification, or both include the program goals and operation, staffing patterns, service delivery networks, assessment instruments and selection criteria, officer training and safety, recordkeeping, and communication within and between agencies. Figures and map