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Follow-Up Study Sample of Rochester Work Release Participants

NCJ Number
97292
Author(s)
D Macdonald; G Bala
Date Published
1983
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This evaluation study found that satisfactory participation in the work release program of the Rochester Correctional Facility (New York) was positively related to successful postrelease adjustment as measured by returns to the custody of the State's correctional department.
Abstract
Study data came from the 291 satisfactory program participants and 74 unsatisfactory program participants leaving the facility from 1979 to 1982. The subjects were tracked through June 30, 1983. The return rate of the 291 satisfactory participants was 16 percent, compared to 28 percent for the unsatisfactory participants. Using the average return rate of all releases from the department, the projected return rate was 23.7 percent for the satisfactory participants. The actual return rate was notably less than this. Although it might be argued that those selected by the department's screening procedures should have a lower return rate than the overall release population, this possible selection bias would not apply to the comparison of satisfactory and unsatisfactory program participants. Nevertheless, the preliminary nature of the research prevents definitive conclusions regarding this program or generalizations about other work release or temporary release programs. However, the positive findings suggest a positive impact and the value of further research. Data tables are included.