The Effect of Risk and Needs Based Supervision on the Recidivism of High Risk Probationers: Results from a Randomized Field Trial

• In Event: Research-Practitioner Partnerships in Philadelphia: Data-Driven Crime Reduction Efforts and Evaluation in Action

Abstract

Probations agencies are increasingly being tasked with the supervision of a large numbers of higher risk offenders. These probationers, some of whom may pose a danger to public safety, require an approach to community supervision that is distinct from what is offered to lower risk individuals. Working together, local academic researchers and practitioners from the Adult Probation and Parole Department (APPD) developed a multi-pronged high-risk supervision strategy, focusing on both the treatment of criminogenic needs and increased formal social control, to respond to the unique challenges of this population. Beginning in 2013, the collaboration embarked upon a large-scale, multi-year randomized controlled trial (RCT) to identify the impact of the supervision protocol. This paper outlines the history of the partnership, the unique nature of the study, and the degree of collaboration required to implement and sustain an RCT of this type. Outcomes of the RCT, including re-arrest, incarceration and drug use, are reported, as well as data on the impact of the two interventions on the mortality, criminogenic beliefs and self-control of enrolled high risk probationers. Subsequent studies, including additional experimental research, conducted by the partnership are also outlined.

Authors

• Jordan Hyatt, Drexel University

• Jillian Eidson, Philadelphia Adult Probation and Parole