NCJ Number
242886
Journal
Criminal Justice Policy Review Volume: 23 Issue: 4 Dated: December 2012 Pages: 427-446
Date Published
December 2012
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This article examines legislative discussions in Iowa on fiscal savings through an increased probation/parole supervisor to officer ratio, resulting in a reduced number of supervisory staff.
Abstract
In the face of budgetary constraints, legislative discussions in Iowa have focused on fiscal savings through an increased probation/parole supervisor to officer ratio, resulting in a reduced number of supervisory staff. Ramifications of this change, given the concurrent implementation of evidence-based practices (EBP), are unknown, given the lack of existing research on rubric for span of control decisions within community corrections agencies. Interviews with stakeholders in both Iowa and a national convenience sample led to a development of factors that should be considered in the future, including an agency's level of task complexity, the workforce skill level, and the work environment, such as the dynamic nature of assigned tasks. Participants perceived high span of control ratios in a typical community corrections environment would challenge the initial implementation of an effective EBP approach. Policy and practical implications are discussed. Abstract published by arrangement with Sage Journals.