Corrections officials always seek solutions for two common problems: overcrowded jails and recidivism. Reentry programs that incorporate evidence-based practices are a proven solution because they reduce jail or prison crowding and they teach and model productive lifestyles to offenders. Today, smaller- and medium-sized jurisdictions, typically counties, are developing successful reentry programs by tapping into available state and federal funds and connecting with established community providers.
A handful of California counties have accessed funding through the federal Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) program and funding provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Recovery Act) to open day reporting centers that deliver cognitive behavioral treatment. These grants were available for programs that included evidence-based probation supervision for adult felony offenders. Evidence-based practices refer to programs backed by scientific research to reduce recidivism. It has been well documented that many new California prison admissions include felony probationers who commit new crimes or fail conditions of release, an excellent reason to implement evidence-based practices to reduce costly recidivism.
Using these funds, Madera and Monterey counties selected BI to open day reporting centers in their jurisdictions. Each of these centers has grown quickly, reduced jail overcrowding pressure and lowered the assessed risk of offenders who participate in the programs. Experts have noticed these programs. The Bureau of Justice Assistance recently highlighted the Monterey DRC as a success story.
For more information about how these counties applied grant funding, contact BI Incorporated at 800.241.2911.