NCJ Number
101466
Date Published
1985
Length
12 pages
Annotation
An analysis of the concept of weekend detention concludes that it is compatible with the current role of the probation service in the United Kingdom and outlines the possible structure and content of a weekend detention program operated through the probation service.
Abstract
Sentencing should consider both the offender's and society's needs. The Probation Control Unit begun in 1981 tried to overcome the usual disadvantages of both prison and normal probation supervision. It required attendance at the unit 12 hours a day, 6 days a week for 6 months. The attendance time was later reduced to 4 days a week for 15 weeks. The Probation Control Unit could be adapted to weekend detention. Weekend detention would provide a high level of supervision, a change in the offender's behavior pattern, the possibility of improving the offender's personal circumstances and of achieving work to compensate crime victims, and a positive program with restricted freedom. Such a program would need full-time staff and should serve 12 to 24 offenders. Specialized facilities offering weekend detention and other programs would be desirable. Offenders attending the center (from 5 p.m. Friday to 5 p.m. Sunday) would participate in meetings, cleaning duties, and activity sessions. Legislation would be needed to make weekend detention a sentence in its own right. Description of detention unit and discussion.