Day Reporting Center for Probationers
One-third of people on probation fail to complete the terms of their supervision. Given the prevalence of probation violations, it is important to investigate alternative ways of responding to them. This trial compares probationers under typical supervision with probationers assigned to a day-reporting center (DRC) as an alternative sanction.
The DRC provides a mandatory onsite cognitive-restructuring program that includes education and job training. It aims to reduce re-arrest rates by helping persons on probation remain in the community and to increase public safety by holding participants accountable for their actions. Probationers randomly assigned to the DRC condition who violate the terms of their supervision are required to report to the DRC for a defined length of time and complete tailored treatment and programming. Probationers who fail to satisfy DRC rules and requirements are subject to increased sanctions.
This three-year trial examines whether DRC programming results in fewer misconducts, including missed office appointments, positive drug tests, new convictions, and revocations; and in decreases in risk level, when compared with supervision-as-usual.