National Institute of Corrections Library

While probation violations for the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) seem to be increasing, this article clearly explains how the relative rate of revocation is actually declining. Topics discussed include: overcrowding in the BOP; supervision violators’ contribution to the overcrowding; factors influencing the number of supervisees revoked; based for revocation and recidivism; federal supervision strategies and practices; the federal approach to noncompliance; cost considerations to revocations; and opportunities and challenges. Authored by Rowland, Matthew G..

“The federal prison population has risen dramatically over the past few decades, as more people are sentenced to prison and for longer terms. The result? Dangerously overcrowded facilities and an increasing expense to taxpayers. In [this] new Urban Institute report, the authors project the population and cost savings impact of a variety of strategies designed to reduce the inmate population without compromising public safety. They find that the most effective approach is a combination of strategies, including early release for current prisoners and reducing the length of stay for future offenders, particularly those convicted of drug trafficking.” Sections of this publication following an executive summary include: introduction to the impact of federal prison growth; understanding the federal prison population and drivers of growth—the main drivers being who goes to prison and for how long; policy options to ease growth and reduce costs—front-end changes and back-end changes; and conclusion. SOURCE: Urban Institute (Washington, DC). Authored by Samuels, Julie; La Vigne, Nancy G.; Taxy, Samuel.

“Recent evidence to improve the implementation of evidence-based supervision has focused on new training initiatives for staff. While training of staff is important to advance skills and knowledge about these practices, training can be very limited. Organizational strategies are needed to sustain the effort in evidence-based supervision. This article focuses on seven strategies.” Sections of this article include: what is all the hoopla about; strategies at the organizational level/completing the skill building— Strategy 1: Build capacity through an organizational plan and structure that supports and sustains the implementation of evidence-based practices and quality supervision; Strategy 2: Build capacity through revised Mission that focuses on the changes related to RNR supervision; Strategy 3: Build capacity by planning for change in key areas; Strategy 4: Build Resiliency through internal supports and learn the skills, practice the skills.; Strategy 5: Build Resiliency Through Improvements in Work Processes; Strategy 6: Collaborate with agencies toward a common goal of improving offender outcomes and promoting public safety; and Strategy 7: Build resiliency by altering offender involvement in key decisions; and conclusion. Authored by Taxman, Faye S..