Community Corrections in a Post-Pandemic World: Lessons Learned from COVID-19 and Innovations in Supervision

Session Submission Type: Complete Thematic Panel

Abstract/Description

This symposium delves into the changing landscape of community corrections today, shedding light on insights gleaned from responses to the COVID-19 pandemic as well as from innovations in technology. The first paper examines probation and parole agencies' rapid pivot towards a "less is more" approach necessitated by the pandemic, highlighting shifts in supervision practices and resource allocation. The second paper details lessons learned from probation agencies who increased their use of virtual reporting as a result of the pandemic, describing both the benefits and drawbacks of its continued utilization today. Finally, the third paper presents findings from a randomized controlled trial assessing the role of an Interactive Computer-Assisted Recovery Enabler (ICARE) tool's behavioral nudges in enhancing treatment compliance among people on probation. Together, these papers contribute to a nuanced understanding of the evolving landscape of community supervision, emphasizing evidence-based approaches and lessons learned for a post-pandemic world.

Sub Unit

• Area VI. The Criminal Justice System / 47. Community Corrections

Individual Presentations

• The Implications of COVID-19 on Probation and Parole Supervision Practices - Susan Brumbaugh, RTI International; Nicole Mack, RTI International; Kristin Bechtel, RTI International

• The Use of Mobile Reporting among Probation Agencies: Lessons from the Field - Luke Muentner, RTI International; Travis Meyers, RTI International

• Results from a Study of an Automated Appointment Reminder System for People on Probation - Samuel Scaggs, RTI International; Pam Lattimore, RTI International; Nicole Jasperson, RTI International; Kim Janda, RTI International

Chair

• Luke Muentner, RTI International

Discussant

• Kristin Bechtel, RTI International