Effects of Pretrial Programming on Sentencing Outcomes

• In Event: Community-based Interventions: Characteristics, Problems, and Recommendations

Abstract

This project provides an assessment of a new pre-trial substance abuse program at a Massachusetts House of Corrections. This intensive treatment program aims to combine a cognitive behavioral therapy approach with evidence-based practices to prepare offenders with a substance abuse history for more successful reintegration into their communities. The sample used in this analysis consists of a small group of approximately 50 pre-trial offenders incarcerated at a local House of Corrections in 2016. Through the collection of their criminal history records as well as programming participation and completion data, this project will help develop a greater understanding of the overall impact of pre-trial treatment program participation on sentencing outcomes. The secondary goal of the study was to identify factors predictive of better sentencing outcomes; furthermore, recommendations will be made regarding the best programming approaches to facilitate more successful reentry upon release from prison.

Authors

• Carlos Monteiro, Suffolk University

• Natasha A. Frost, Northeastern University

• Stacie St. Louis, Northeastern University

• Bradley Luckett, Northeastern University