Integrating Novel Technology for Optimized Supervision Responsivity

The Integrating Novel Technology for Optimized Supervision Responsivity grant intends to reduce recidivism, technical violations, and new law violations for parole, probation, and pretrial clients throughout Benton, Iowa, Tama, and Jones, Johnson, and Linn counties in Iowa.  This project will feature successful integration of a novel, robust, application based supervision platform into the day to day operations of probation and parole agents.  Most notably, this will feature the blending of existing evidence-based Core Correctional Practices and a suite of digital tools available for rapid responsivity to client needs.  A veteran probation officer will be dedicated as a technology integration specialist to facilitate full, meaningful implementation of this technology in the daily operation of agents throughout our district. The technology integration specialist will devise a new, hybrid model of community supervision that blends in-person and remote supervision strategies. This will significantly reduce barriers to success for clients, increase engagement in supervision and rehabilitation efforts, and create a greater sense of fairness and justice for clients in the criminal justice system. 

Anticipated outcomes include reduced recidivism, increased treatment dosage to align with targets recommended for evidence-based practice, and full adaptation of Core Correctional Practices in a hybrid in-person / virtual supervision format. We expect to see significantly reduced transportation barriers for clients that lead to greater engagement in supervision and reduced rates of technical violations.  The project will initially prioritize implementation in our most rural counties, with expansion in later stages. We believe this project has the potential to become a model for others in community corrections seeking similar evolution to their approach to correctional supervision for optimized client success.