Tool Helps Probation Officers Reduce Future Criminal Behavior

The duty of probation officers is to protect the community and foster long-term positive changes in the conduct of offenders. Over the last two decades, advancements in social science research and the need to reduce recidivism—while using resources more efficiently and effectively— have led officers to more effective interventions through evidence-based practices. A critical component of these practices is the Post-Conviction Risk Assessment (PCRA).

PCRA was developed from data collected on 185,297 federal offenders, and is designed to identify which persons to target for correctional interventions, what characteristics or needs will mitigate future criminal behavior, and how best to deliver supervision and treatment.

While risk assessment devises have been used in the federal system for decades, the PCRA has numerous additional advantages and is consistent with the most current scientific research.