NCJ Number
128752
Date Published
1990
Length
71 pages
Annotation
This study examined issues relevant to community involvement with offenders in New Zealand, and respondents generally indicated that greater community involvement is desirable.
Abstract
Study objectives were to identify issues associated with community involvement in the care and supervision of offenders, note problems that may need to be addressed by New Zealand's Department of Justice, and indicate questions on which data should be collected in future research projects. Issues of interest in the study focused on philosophical concerns, sentencing (parole, community care, community service, supervision, and periodic detention), funding, personnel, accountability, cultural and gender concerns, specific offender groups, and probation. Study respondents generally believed that greater community involvement with offenders is desirable, but were less sure that such involvement is achievable. The relation between the New Zealand Department of Justice and communities was widely seen to be of critical importance. In particular, the development of a genuine partnership between the department and a wide range of groups and individuals was regarded as necessary for high standards of offender care and supervision to be achieved. It was also determined that the department should provide community sponsors with appropriate assistance and should include funding and material resources, training, supervision, and administrative support. Appendixes contain a list of study respondents and the interview schedule. 28 references