NCJ Number
79541
Date Published
Unknown
Length
0 pages
Annotation
Four main components constitute the community-based corrections project in Des Moines, Iowa, a project selected as exemplary by LEAA.
Abstract
Overcrowded jails and high costs associated with detaining defendants not able to post bond were plaguing corrections officials at the Polk County Jail in Des Moines until the community-based corrections project brought relief. The community-based project had four components: (1) pretrial release; (2) supervised release for moderate-risk defendants (a strategy which is designed to increase releasees chances of parole); (3) probation, including a presentence investigation and ongoing supervision; and (4) use of the Fort Des Moines facility, an open community-based correctional facility that is treatment-oriented and has inmate rehabilitation as its main goal. The success of the program is demonstrated by 1973 figures showing that 704 defendants participated in the programs for a total savings of $.5 million. For related information, see NCJ 10544 and NCJ 17097.