Vera researchers conducted a study for the Department of Community Justice (DCJ) in Multnomah County (Portland), Oregon, on how the county was using intermediate sanctions—drug treatment, community service, day reporting, and jail—in lieu of prison when people on probation, parole, and post-prison supervision violated the conditions of their release. The findings led to changes in policy that quickly resulted in better outcomes.
Key Findings
The researchers found, among other things, that Multnomah County relied heavily on jail to sanction those who violate release conditions. Of the 30 percent of the supervised population who were sanctioned, 92 percent received jail time at some point during their supervision. Moreover, the use of jail as an intermediate sanction correlated with higher rates of recidivism. Compared to a similar group, people who received jail as an intermediate sanction were 76 percent more likely to have their supervision revoked.
