The Correlates of Post-Sentencing Adjustments to Supervision Length within a Local Probation and Parole Department

Abstract

Approximately one in fifty US adults are currently under probation or parole supervision (Glaze & Kaeble, 2014). Given this prevalence, it is important to understand the correlates of probation and parole supervision arrangements and outcomes. One important outcome is supervision length adjustments, often made because of a violation revocation or discretionary supervision extension. A supervision length adjustment can result in shortened or extended supervision lengths relative to sentence expiration. Prior research has overlooked organizational and ecological correlates of many probation/parole outcomes, including supervision adjustments. This study contrasted potential supervision adjustments made four years from assignment for 12,320 male and female probationers and parolees sentenced from August 1, 2009 to July 31, 2010 in a local jurisdiction. Supervision adjustment types included on-time completion, shortened supervision, extended supervision, and ongoing or continuing supervision. This study also examined the number of additional supervision days when supervision extensions did occur. Findings showed that agency response to client behavior and organization shaped supervision length adjustments. Some differences in supervision length adjustments also emerged across subgroups of parolees and probationers, and between males and females. One important policy implication is the inequitable adjustments to supervision lengths across subgroups. Another implication is to consider how organizational structure affects adjustments to supervision lengths. Future probation and parole research should carefully consider organizational and social processes when addressing community supervision outcomes.