Corrections and Treatment

Corrections and Treatment

Juvenile probation, juvenile intensive probation supervision, and house arrest are three examples of community-based corrections. These forms of sentencing are designed to punish delinquents without resorting to incarceration. Instead of removing the youths from society, treatment programs selected for the delinquents will help treat them, and still hold them accountable for their actions. If an offender does not complete the program successfully, or is found in violation, and the youth may be sent to an institution. Institutionalization has drawbacks, such as peer pressure, the lack of rehabilitation programs, as well as funding for the programs. Intensive aftercare programs (IAP) are different in many states. Colorado begins transitioning the youths slowly, while Virginia use a different technique altogether. From probation to aftercare, the main priority is the treatment of the offenders and the safety of the public.

Community-based treatment programs

Community-based treatment programs are used as an alternative to incarceration. Probation is typically used for lower based offenders to supervise the offender while in society (Their, 2011). Supervision conditions may include curfews, good school or job attendance, drug treatment programs, and counseling. Low-level offenders are usually placed on probation to ensure they are not a danger to society, and can receive help from the community. Offenders need to communicate with probation officers regularly and obey all laws and any other conditions in the contract. This type of supervision is important to keep juvenile connected to the community and allow offenders a chance to succeed. Probation is successful for many offenders, but many need intensive supervision.

Juvenile intensive probation supervision (JIPS) is similar to juvenile probation, but is intended for known gang members, substance abuse offenders, and juveniles who are at serious risk of incarceration (Intensive Supervision Juvenile Probation Program, 2012). The three goals of JIPS are decarceration, control, and maintaining community ties. Decarceration is the attempt at lowering the overcrowding problem. Probation officers need to have control of the offenders and keep a much closer watch on these types of offenders. Offenders must also maintain their community ties with family and friends to help avoid incarceration. Offenders on ISJP must follow the rules of the contract, but also check in with the probation officer almost every day. Offenders will still have the freedom of outside privileges, unlike the rules of house arrest.

Offenders sentenced to house arrest usually have electronic monitoring, as well. Instead of incarceration, offenders must remain at home during times they are not at work, school, or other times specified by the probation officer. Offenders are linked