Implementation of an Enhanced Probation Program: Evaluating the Process and Outcomes

• In Event: Programs and Issues Influencing Probation Outcomes

Abstract

Supervision, Monitoring, Accountability, Responsibility, and Treatment (SMART) is Kentucky’s enhanced probation pilot program modeled after Hawaii’s Opportunity Probation with Enforcement (HOPE) project. SMART is proposed to decrease crime, substance abuse, and incarceration in Kentucky’s overcrowded penal institutions by increasing and randomizing drug testing and intensifying supervision of high-risk high-needs probationers. SMART adopts a holistic approach for long-term rehabilitation by addressing mental health and substance abuse needs as well as Lifeskills (i.e., employment, education), fostering deterrence of criminal behavior versus punitive action only. A mixed methods program evaluation was implemented gathering qualitative and quantitative data to assess program implementation and effectiveness. Qualitative interviews with key stakeholders suggested successful implementation with collaboration and shared goals for success. Interpersonal communication and enhanced supervision allowed for clearer expectations, enhanced rapport with probationers, and shared goals for success. Quantitative analyses of secondary data from the Department of Corrections’ Kentucky Offender Management System suggested program effectiveness. Specifically, SMART probationers showed fewer: technical violations of probation (1.2 vs. 2.3), positive drug screens (11.6% vs. 29.3%), and days incarcerated (32.5 versus 118.1) than comparison probationers. Kentucky’s SMART enhanced probation shows preliminary success in reducing violations, substance abuse, and incarceration. Implications for policy and practice will be discussed.

Authors

• Lisa Shannon, Morehead State University

• Shelia Hulbig, Morehead State University

• Shira Birdwhistell, Morehead State University

• Elizabeth Perkins, Morehead State University