A Spatial Analysis of the Impact of Virtual Supervision on Probation Clients’ Supervision Experience

• In Event: Lightning Talk: Reentry: Prison Programs and Community Supervision

Abstract

Since COVID-19, virtual supervision has been implemented in different probation and parole agencies around the country. One of the main impetuses for this use is to remove the travel barriers many clients face due to scheduling issues, inflexible work or family structures, and lack of available transportation options. In this talk, we examine the transportation burden placed on probation clients in Texas via spatial analyses and surveys of clients. More specifically, we examine the distance clients must travel to meet with their officer, frequency of required travel to the office, modality of transportation, and associated financial costs. Findings will be discussed within the context of reform and considerations for the role of technology within supervision practices.

Authors

• Benjamin Cohn, University of Central Florida

• Jill Viglione, University of Central Florida