< Previous4 0 PERSPECTIVESVOLUME 47, NUMBER 3 DESISTANCE INNOVATIVE SUPERVISION STRATEGIES USED IN PROBATION Joe Winkler, Assistant Secretary of Community Corrections Florida Department of CorrectionsIntroduction Probation, as an alternative to incarceration, has undergone significant transformation over the years. With the evolving landscape of criminal justice and rehabilitation, probation has adapted to incorporate innovative techniques aimed at reducing recidivism and promoting successful reintegration into society (Schaefer, 2017). Continuing to explore innovative techniques used in probation and highlighting their impact on both individuals under supervision and the criminal justice system can shed light on the promising path forward for probation in the 21st century. Probation has evolved from its early inception as a mere alternative to incarceration to a multifaceted system that incorporates innovative techniques for an individual’s supervision, rehabilitation, and community reintegration. The primary goal of probation is to provide individuals under supervision with the opportunity to remain in the community and support their rehabilitation while holding them accountable for their actions, reducing recidivism, and ensuring public safety. Over time, probation has embraced various innovative approaches to achieve these objectives (Annison, 2013). Florida Community Corrections has continued incorporating evidence-based practices (EBPs) to guide decision-making and intervention strategies. These practices are grounded in empirical research and have effectively reduced recidivism (Florida Department of Corrections 2022). Cognitive-behavioral interventions, motivational interviewing, and substance use treatment and recovery programs have remained at the forefront of supervision (Wang 2014). The significance of innovation in probation cannot be overstated, given its profound impact on the criminal justice system, society, and the individuals (e.g., rehabilitation), families, and communities (Goswami, 2005). Florida recently introduced pioneering initiatives to support the successful reintegration of individuals into society while maintaining a solid commitment to public safety. Below are descriptions of the initiatives Florida Community Corrections has implemented to meet the primary goals of community supervision – rehabilitation, accountability, and public safety. F.A.C.E. I.T. The first 30 to 90 days of supervision is a pivotal period for an individual under supervision. Effective communication between the probation officer and individual is critical and can be the start of a successful probationary term (Viglione et al. 2017). A breakdown in communication can disrupt the individual’s reintegration into the community. This disruption may result in the individual being removed from the community, hindering their progress toward rehabilitation and successful reentry. By recognizing the critical importance of communication in the early stages of supervision, stakeholders can collaboratively work towards creating an environment that supports compliance, rehabilitation, and community reintegration, ultimately contributing to the overall success of the probationary term. A recent study by the Office of Research and Data Analysis determined that approximately 22% of the individuals on supervision were referred to the sentencing or releasing authority for failing to comply with supervision within three months of being sentenced (D. Ensley, personal communication, October 18, 2023). This supports the importance of effective communication that clearly outlines the role of probation officers and expectations for individuals being supervised in the community. Additionally, community involvement and partnerships have become integral to the success of modern probation programs. Probation officers collaborate with community organizations, service providers, and faith-based institutions to offer individuals access to education, employment opportunities, and social support networks. Restorative justice practices, including victim-offender mediation, empower the community to play a role in rehabilitation and foster empathy and accountability among individuals under supervision (Coates, 2000). In response, Florida Community Corrections started the F.A.C.E. I.T. Program in December 2021 (the acronym is described below). The program was originally intended to be facilitated with individuals sentenced to supervision and their families within the first 30 to 60 days after being placed on supervision. As the program grew, it expanded to county probation, jails, and state institutions. The program is a two-hour class emphasizing accountability and responsibility by reflecting on the various inputs and orientations an individual can hold. Each letter of the acronym identifies one of these essential domains and encompasses the idea of “facing” challenges and being empowered to overcome them.1 FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS, DIVERSIONARY PROGRAMS, AND COMMUNITY SUPERVISION: CRITICAL ISSUES AND INNOVATIVE STRATEGIES 4 1 AMERICAN PROBATION AND PAROLE ASSOCIATION DESISTANCE4 2 PERSPECTIVESVOLUME 47, NUMBER 3 DESISTANCE F- Family, Friends, Faith-based Organizations Research indicates that specific support elements significantly influence the success of an individual’s rehabilitation journey (Canton, 2013). Family support is one of the most pivotal among these crucial factors. When individuals receive assistance from their families, friends, and support networks, it paves the way for them to attain self-sufficiency. Furthermore, faith-based organizations contribute by offering moral backing, guidance, encouragement, and supplementary resources, thereby bolstering the prospects of success in their rehabilitation endeavors. A- Attitude Attitude encompasses an individual’s emotional and behavioral stance toward people, objects, or situations, serving as a lens through which they perceive life. Rather than being a passive occurrence, attitude is a conscious choice each person makes. Individuals’ outlook on life and how they react to various life events significantly shape their cognitive patterns. A positive attitude is frequently recognized as pivotal to personal success. The advantages of cultivating a positive attitude are boundless. As motivational speaker Zig Ziglar aptly stated, “Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude” (cited by Kruse, 2012). Possessing a positive outlook on life is indeed an invaluable asset. This outlook is paramount in determining the extent of success one can attain across all facets of life. Notably, a positive attitude is not a random occurrence; it is characteristic of individuals who maintain an optimistic perspective and serve as a cornerstone of their achievements. 1 Readers can learn more about the program from a recent podcast, entitled “Death or Prison”, hosted by Lean on Me USA, Inc.: C- Communication Effective communication stands as a critical element for achieving success. This proficiency encompasses listening attentively, engaging in meaningful dialogues, and conveying messages through non-verbal cues. To thrive, individuals on probation must recognize the significance of effective communication when interacting with probation officers, counselors, community members, their families, and friends. E- Employment and Education Securing employment is paramount in ensuring an individual’s probation success. Individuals under supervision who are gainfully employed are better suited to fulfill obligations like victim restitution, covering court costs, and completing treatment programs. Extensive research underscores the role of employment as a deterrent against criminal activities (Capece, 2022). While attaining employment is a crucial milestone, maintaining it is very important. Within each Judicial Circuit, an Employment Specialist is available to assist individuals under supervision. This assistance includes preparing for job interviews, conducting research to identify suitable employment opportunities, aiding individuals in completing job applications and crafting resumes, fostering partnerships with employers, collaborating with the Department of Economic Opportunity, and forging connections with educational and vocational institutions. Additionally, Employment Specialists work to establish a roster of employers to whom they can refer individuals under supervision, further facilitating their path toward successful rehabilitation. I-Improvement Individuals who consistently demonstrate a commitment to self-improvement achieve success. They regularly introspect, asking themselves, “Have I progressed as much this month as I did the previous one?” If someone’s mindset, abilities, knowledge, and outlook have remained static over time, it may indicate a need for growth. This absence of progress can lead to feelings of frustration and dwindling motivation. Striving for advancement across all aspects of life catalyzes achieving success. T- Take Responsibility Success is not an entity but rather an ongoing journey. To attain success, an individual must take responsibility, not just for the crime they committed, but for fulfilling all the letters in F.A.C.E. I.T. When faced with unexpected challenges, these individuals do not perceive them as roadblocks but as stepping stones to success. The cornerstone of this journey lies in acknowledging that responsibility rests squarely on the individual’s shoulders. The trajectory of success is both initiated and concluded by the act of taking responsibility. Throughout the course, participants receive continuous reinforcement of the letters within F.A.C.E. I.T. More than 6,000 individuals have completed this class in the probation setting and numerous incarcerated individuals in county jails or state correctional institutions. Additionally, approximately 5% more individuals have successfully surpassed the initial 90-day period without being referred back to the sentencing or releasing authority (D. Ensley, personal communication, October 18, 2023). S.O.T.E.C. Probation innovation emphasizes community involvement, forging partnerships with local organizations, employers, and support networks. This collaborative approach empowers the community to play a role in rehabilitation, reducing the burden on probation officers and promoting social reintegration (Kelman, 2012). Taking a proactive approach contributes to safer communities. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Correctional Probation Officers started observing a rise in anonymous reports through calls and emails, indicating individuals under supervision might own weapons or illicit substances. Furthermore, many new officers were hired who had limited experience conducting well-structured searches. Consequently, Florida Community Corrections initiated a more comprehensive approach to address and enhance responses to these apprehensions called S.O.T.E.C. (Searching Offenders to Ensure Compliance). S.O.T.E.C. is a special team responsible for conducting searches of individuals on probation, parole, or other forms of community supervision. These search teams play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with the conditions of supervision and promoting public safety. Partnerships with law enforcement are essential for probation search teams to ensure the legality, safety, and effectiveness of their operations. The collaborative efforts enhance the overall capabilities of probation officers and contribute to the successful supervision of individuals under probation. The positive results have been excellent. S.O.T.E.C. has been instrumental in monitoring and enforcing conditions of probation or parole imposed on individuals under supervision. Numerous searches have uncovered weapons, illegal drugs, and money. In one search, probation officers found numerous handguns, 284 grams of marijuana, 80 grams of cocaine, and more than $9,600 in cash. In a separate search, probation officers uncovered substantial quantities of methamphetamine, multiple prescription narcotic pills without prescriptions, and several high-value items confirmed to be stolen. In another search, probation officers seized over 1,000 grams of marijuana, more than 2,000 grams of cocaine, and $4,565 in cash. The S.O.T.E.C. Team consistently reports successful searches like these nearly every week. S.O.T.E.C. has been very effective in monitoring compliance, detecting contraband, and promoting public safety. These special teams require specialized training and must adhere to legal guidelines to balance enforcement and rehabilitation. Law enforcement partnerships also play a vital role in the rehabilitation process by fostering a supportive environment for individuals under probation. By working together, law enforcement and probation officers can create opportunities for rehabilitation, addressing the root causes of non-compliance and contributing to the overall success of supervised individuals in reintegrating into society. Most importantly, S.O.T.E.C. has helped enhance stakeholder support and community trust, both of which are fundamental to the success of probation departments. Continuing initiatives like this will help maintain these relationships and enhance the effectiveness of probation, thus contributing to safer communities and the successful rehabilitation of individuals under supervision. Bike Team Traditionally, probation officers have relied on car patrols and office-based supervision to engage with individuals under supervision (CBS News, 2016). However, integrating bicycle patrols into probation services offers several unique advantages that can enhance the effectiveness of probation programs. Officers conducting community-based supervision practices through Florida Community Correction bicycle patrols offers numerous benefits in terms of community engagement, cost-efficiency, and the promotion of healthier lifestyles for probation officers and individuals under supervision. Florida Community Corrections has recently launched its inaugural “Bike Team” in Tampa, which was strategically chosen for its urban location. The team successfully underwent a comprehensive 32-hour national training program, equipping them with a range of techniques to elevate the supervision of individuals under their care. This innovative initiative has already shown several favorable 4 3 AMERICAN PROBATION AND PAROLE ASSOCIATION DESISTANCE44 PERSPECTIVESVOLUME 47, NUMBER 3 outcomes. The Bike Team undergoes specialized training, ensuring officers are well-prepared to address the distinctive challenges and responsibilities associated with patrolling on bicycles. The first advantage of the Bike Team is the increased level of community engagement. The Bike Team is more approachable and visible within the community, fostering positive relationships with the public and individuals under supervision. This increased interaction builds trust, improves communication, and creates a sense of accountability among individuals under supervision. Another advantage is that the Bike Team offers a cost- effective alternative to traditional car patrols. Maintaining bicycles is significantly cheaper than maintaining patrol cars, which require fuel, maintenance, and insurance. Additionally, bicycles provide probation officers with greater mobility and access to areas inaccessible by car. Officers can easily navigate through parks, alleys, and crowded urban areas, making engaging with individuals in remote or hard-to-reach locations easier. This flexibility enhances the ability to locate and supervise individuals effectively. In the future, Florida Community Corrections hopes to expand the Bike Team to other areas of the state to enhance probation services in various ways, including increased community engagement, cost-efficiency, improved mobility, and a focus on healthier lifestyles for officers and individuals under supervision. While there are challenges, the advantages of having bike teams on probation outweigh the drawbacks. Integrating bike teams into probation programs can promote positive outcomes for the criminal justice system and the communities it serves. As probation services evolve, bike teams represent a forward-thinking approach to supervision and community engagement. Mobile Probation Unit Florida’s newest supervision resource is the addition of the Mobile Probation Unit (MPU). The evolution of the MPU began when the Palm Beach County Jail was struggling with overcrowding issues. A review was conducted of those who were housed in their facility, and it was determined a great number of those were being held on a Violation of Probation (VOP). Furthermore, many violations were due to the individual under supervision failing to report to the Probation Office as instructed. To assist in alleviating jail overcrowding, and boost reporting compliance, the MPU was implemented. The MPU is a 24-foot vehicle that includes a staging area with tents, folding tables, and folding chairs. It also features designated areas within the bus to facilitate meetings between probation officers and individuals under supervision. To ensure convenience and safety, specific reporting sites have been identified where the MPU can be centrally positioned. These sites offer public facilities, ample parking, and measures for enhanced public safety. Collaborating with stakeholders is frequently advantageous as it allows the MPU to be stationed in areas where proximity to other essential services or the residences of individuals under supervision can be maximized. The MPU has been a great success in providing a valuable resource to those under supervision, bringing services to the community allows success for those we supervise. Recently, Florida added a second MPU in Sarasota County. Due to this forward-thinking approach, Florida Community Corrections has been chosen to be honored with a 2023 Government Productivity Tax Watch Award. The MPU offers several advantages, both for the individuals under supervision and the overall efficiency of the probation system. Mobile probation units can reach individuals in areas traditional probation offices might underserve. This is especially important in rural or remote communities where transportation to a central office can be a significant barrier DESISTANCEfor individuals under supervision. The MPUs provide greater convenience for individuals who can report to a location closer to their homes or workplaces, reducing the time and effort required for reporting with a desired outcome of higher compliance rates. Many individuals need reliable transportation or face financial constraints that make regular trips to a probation office challenging. Mobile units mitigate these transportation barriers, ensuring individuals under supervision can quickly meet their reporting requirements. The MPU also promotes community integration. Individuals report to a location within their own neighborhoods, making them feel more connected to their communities and fostering a sense of responsibility and belonging. In the future, Florida Community Corrections hopes to add additional MPUs to the fleet as well as diversifying the role. Staging a mobile unit in a location damaged by a natural disaster allows easier access after a stressful event. The MPUs can also be used to stage an area when conducting joint operations with another law enforcement stakeholder, thus contributing to the principles of community policing by fostering positive relationships between law enforcement and the community. Finally, the MPU serves as a visible, approachable presence in the neighborhood. Florida Community Corrections has quickly learned MPUs offer a more accessible, convenient, and community- oriented approach to probation supervision. They help address transportation and accessibility barriers, promote accountability, and can lead to improved outcomes for individuals under supervision while potentially increasing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of probation services. Despite being in the early stages of implementation, the MPUs have already contributed to a notable 27% reduction in technical violations related to failing to report (FDC Bureau of Research and Data, 2023). Conclusion The future of probation lies in its continued evolution and adaptation to emerging trends in criminal justice and rehabilitation (Winkler, 2021). Integrating innovative approaches that promote equitable and just outcomes for all individuals involved in the criminal justice system remains a fundamental goal. Additionally, it will continue to keep probation officers engaged in one of the most important professions in the criminal justice system: Community Corrections. While innovative techniques in probation have shown promise, they are not without challenges. Funding constraints, resistance to change, and the need for ongoing training and professional development for probation staff are hurdles that must be addressed. The evolving innovative techniques used in probation underscore its commitment to rehabilitation, reduced recidivism, and enhanced public safety. As we move forward, continued research, collaboration, and adaptation will be essential to realizing the full potential of these innovations in probation and ensuring a fair and just society for all. In conclusion, innovation in probation is vital because it transforms an antiquated punitive system into a rehabilitative, data-driven, and community-oriented one. By reducing recidivism, promoting cost-efficiency, and addressing the needs of individuals, innovative probation techniques contribute to a safer and more just society while fulfilling the mission of the Community Corrections profession. References • Annison, J. (2013). Innovation in probation practice: Past, present and future. Probation Journal, 60(3), 227-241. • Canton, R. (2013). Probation: Working with offenders. Routledge. • Capece, J. (2022). Community Supervision and Employment. The ANNALS of the American Academy • CBC News. (2016, February 24). Honouring Toronto’s first bike patrol, after 27 years. Canadian Broadcasting • Coates, R.B., Umbreit, M. & Vos, B. (2000). Restorative Justice Circles in South Saint Paul, Minnesota. Minnesota: University of Minnesota. • Florida Department of Corrections. (2022). Florida Prison Recidivism Report: Releases from 2008 to 2020. Office of Strategic Initiatives. Florida Department of Corrections. • Goswami, S., & Mathew, M. (2005). Definition of innovation revisited: An empirical study on Indian information technology industry. International Journal of Innovation Management, 9(03), 371-383. • Kelman, S., Hong, S. and Turbitt, I. (2012) Are There Managerial Practices Associated with the Outcomes of an Interagency Service Delivery Collaboration? Evidence from British Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnerships. Journal of Public Administration Research and Theory, DESISTANCE 45 AMERICAN PROBATION AND PAROLE ASSOCIATION46 PERSPECTIVESVOLUME 46, NUMBER 3 DESISTENCE 23, 609-630. • Kruse, K. (2012, November 8). Zig Ziglar: 10 Quotes that • Schaefer, L., Cullen, F. T., & Manchak, S. M. (2017). The role of place in probation and parole. Unraveling the crime-place connection: New directions in theory and policy, 22, 191-215. • Viglione, J., Rudes, D. S., & Taxman, F. S. (2017). Probation officer use of client-centered communication strategies in adult probation settings. Journal of Offender Rehabilitation, 56(1), 38-60. • Wang, X., Hay, C., Todak, N. E., & Bales, W. (2014). Criminal Propensity, Social Context, and • Recidivism: A Multilevel Analysis of Interactive Relationships. Criminal Justice and Behavior, 41(3), 300- • Winkler, Joe 2021. Probation- Past, Present, & Future. Perspectives, vol. 45, 23-33. Bio: Joe Winkler serves as the Assistant Secretary of Community Corrections with the Florida Department of Corrections, where he provides oversight to 140 probation offices statewide and direction to correctional staff supervising 150,000 adult felony offenders. Mr. Winkler serves on the Board of Directors with the Florida Association of Community Corrections and the National Association of Probation Executives. He is the Florida Commissioner of Interstate Compact and on the Board of Governors with the American Correctional Association. Mr. Winkler is a member of the National Institute of Corrections Probation and Parole Executives and the American Probation and Parole Association.Next >