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Improving Victim Services Thru Probation - Final Report

NCJ Number
82824
Date Published
1981
Length
130 pages
Annotation
This report presents a State-by-State analysis of victim services rendered through probation departments supervising adult and juvenile offenders throughout the United States.
Abstract
A total of 419 probation departments, representing all States except (Idaho), reported that they provide services to adults. Of this group, 367 departments serve both juvenile and adult offenders. A total of 85 percent of the departments help victims obtain financial restitution; 68 percent supervise offenders in community services, and 63 percent provide victims with counseling information. More information is required, however, for proper assessment of counseling services. In addition, further research is required with regard to the reported supervising of offenders in community services. Areas of concern would include types of programs used, affect on the offender, and cost benefits. Fifty-three percent of the departments reported referring victims to community services. A total of 457 departments, representing all but 1 State (Vermont), reported that they give services to juveniles. Eighty-five percent help victims obtain financial restitution, and 71 percent supervise offenders in community restitution. Seventy-four percent of the reporting departments provide victims with counseling or information, 58 percent refer victims to community services, and 68 percent obtain victim impact statements. (Author summary modified)