The sites selected for the replication research (Canadian model) on structured parole decision making were Ohio and Connecticut

National Institute of Corrections Structured Parole Decision Making Project (Canadian model) Site Solicitation

Goals

A primary goal of this initiative is to advance evidence-based parole decision making research in the United States. The National Institute of Corrections (NIC), Carlton University and the Association of Paroling Authorities International (APAI) are seeking 2 sites who might wish to embark on a collaboration to replicate research conducted in Canada regarding structured parole decision making.

Background material (literature review, user manual) will be provided to the parole agency staff prior to the site visit. Two investigators from Carleton University will travel to the site and provide a workshop and training regarding the application of the Structured Decision Framework. The training will also address contemporary risk assessment issues and implications for establishing parole conditions. The researchers will ensure inter-rater reliability prior to commencing data collection. Procedures for sharing the data will be finalized at the time of the site visit (either worksheets without identifiers or an electronic data file). A report regarding the findings (comparing the accuracy of existing decision strategies with the Structured Decision Framework) will be completed for each agency. This research will also review parole decisions against a model reflecting evidence-based practice; hence, the parole agency will be in a position to evaluate the extent to which current decision procedures reflect contemporary practice. This research will also investigate the impact of training on grant rates, as well as provide preliminary findings regarding decision making competencies. Of note is that the issue of practice guidelines is different than current interest in risk assessment and recidivism and could potentially insulate an agency from criticism in the event of parole failures. A summary report will be provided to both the agency and NIC.

Resource Implications

Each parole site will need to assign someone to review case files and co-ordinate data collection. Depending on the comprehensiveness of file information, it is expected this individual could do 4 cases per day (more if file information is limited). If we aim for 100-120 cases, this is 6 weeks over 12 months. The university researchers will complete all the training, conduct the statistical analyses and provide a written report.

The Framework

This is a structured professional judgement model that requires a systematic review of empirically relevant factors (i.e., criminal history, institutional adjustment, correctional programming, release plan), grounded by a valid risk assessment estimate and a consideration of policy requirements. This review provides an outline for decision makers when writing a rationale for their decisions. The framework does not provide an actual decision rather it is an empirically-informed decision guide. Research has demonstrated that using the framework increases both accuracy and accountability. In one study of sensational parole failures, application of the framework would have reduced such failures by 42%. Based on such findings, and its empirical derivation, the framework is a training standard for newly appointed parole board members in Canada.

Site Requirements for NIC Structured Parole Decision Making Study

These requirements describe the scope and information necessary for this project to be successful. Not all interested sites may meet all requirements but this will not eliminate them from consideration.

1.Decision making context: Decisions should be made by the paroling authority regarding timing of release as well as conditions upon release. These decisions should be compiled in a registry.

2.Decision registry and database: There should be a registry of decisions and assigned conditions. Where possible the decision would include a rationale. There should be a database, preferably electronic, of these decisions and outcomes for at least 12 months post-release. Outcomes should include multiple indices such as technical violations and new offences.

3.Staff: Part of the project involves training regarding Evidence-Based Practice and Parole for paroling authority staff, so a level of organizational readiness is expected. As well, a staff member will need to be assigned so that they may be trained on the Structured Decision Framework for its application to 120 case files.

Deadline for Applications: Friday July 9, 2010.

Questions: see pdf or contact Ralph Serin at ralph_serin@carleton.ca