FRESNO, Calif.—Nov. 12, 2013—Officials from the Fresno County Probation Department and BI Incorporated, who operate an innovative criminal justice program for county probationers, will recognize program graduates at a Transition Celebration Thursday, Nov. 14, at 11:30 a.m. at the Piccadilly Inn Airport at 5115 East McKinley Ave.
This event marks the completion of an intensive education and rehabilitation program at the Fresno County Day Reporting Center. The center, which opened in May 2011 at 2212 North Winery and serves up to 50 offenders, provides treatment, training and case management services for offenders considered to pose a moderate to high risk of committing another crime.
Officials will recognize 12 graduates at the ceremony, and Area Manager Steve Farguie will be the keynote speaker. This event marks a significant milestone in the lives of participants, as they transition into their lives in the community equipped with the skills and training needed to succeed and be contributing citizens.
To open this center, Fresno County received a state grant that encourages criminal justice programs with evidence-based practices directed at felony probationers. Evidence-based practices refer to programs backed by scientific research to reduce recidivism. Offenders sent to the DRC go through a multi-phase program that includes regular reporting to the center, intensive treatment and training, and ongoing drug and alcohol testing. Offenders also participate in cognitive behavioral classes proven to change criminal behavior. Failure to comply with DRC rules and guidelines results in increased sanctions.
For more information, contact Humberto Sanchez, program manager, at (559) 454-0012.