Sex Offender Case Management: Specialized Supervision and the Journey to Evidence-Based Practices

• In Event: Current Trends in Sex Offender Community Management

Abstract

Sex offender management and supervision (SOMS) has become an important activity in community-based supervision. Despite agencies’ focus on using evidence-based practices (EBP) to guide SOMS, there has been no nationwide assessment of the scope and breadth of policies, practices, and the adoption of EBPs. This research outlines the current SOMS practices across community supervision agencies in the United States, including models of supervision, training strategies for staff, and roles and responsibilities of probation and parole officers. Using data from content analysis, in-depth interviews, and focus groups, we analyze how officers utilize SOMS practices to facilitate enforcement and compliance. This inventory, in turn, will serve as the foundation for building knowledge and guiding future research related to EBP implementation and “what works” in addressing the risks and needs of this distinct population of offenders.

Authors

• Kim Kras, University of Massachusetts, Lowell

• Andrew Harris, University of Massachusetts, Lowell

• Kyleigh Clark-Moorman, University of Massachusetts, Lowell