Impact Evaluation of the Rhode Island Probation Specialized

Project Summary for 2002-WG-BX-0011

This study will examine a replication of the Quincy, Massachusetts model domestic violence probation program in Rhode Island and determine whether it results in more accountable offenders and less domestic abuse in that State. The Domestic Violence Unit (DVU) of the Rhode Island Department of Corrections (DOC) administers the specialized probation program in five catchment areas in the northern halp of the State. In contrast to other probation officers in the State, this program's probation counselors have received special domestic violence training and manage only cases involving domestic violence offenders. In addition, this program holds offenders with two or more domestic violence convictions to higher probation standards.

The goal of the study is to conduct a quasi-experimental impact evaluation (considering reoffending and abuse rates) of the specialized adult probation program implemented by the Rhode Island DVU and to provide information on the administration and content of effective probation standards.

Ca/ncf