A Quasi-Experimental Evaluation of a Model of Community Supervision

During the last decade, several formalized approaches have been developed to improve the effectiveness of probation and parole by implementing evidence-based research into community supervision practices. In support of these new models, there are now some studies indicating that these strategies are capable of reducing offender recidivism and tentative evidence to suggest that even greater reductions may be achieved when motivational interviewing techniques are implemented in conjunction with them. In this study the authors provide a first attempt at quantifying officer fidelity in these two areas in order to determine if skill competency has an effect on recidivism.