Title
Probation Department recommending the Board adopt Resolution 079-2018 authorizing the implementation of the Probation Department's Adult and Juvenile Incentives Program.
FUNDING: 100% General Fund.
Body
DEPARTMENT RECOMMENDATION
Adoption of Resolution 079-2018 to authorize the Probation Department to implement the Adult and Juvenile Incentives Program, expend funds from the approved budget and allow the Probation Department to modify the program as necessary to improve its effectiveness and efficiency.
DISCUSSION / BACKGROUND
In 2014, the Board of Supervisors approved the Community Corrections Center Incentive Program Resolution 204-2014. The Probation Department is looking to expand the program to all Adult and Juvenile Programs. The Community Corrections Center Incentive Program has proven successful through incentivizing appropriate behavior and reinforcing positive change for the adult offenders participating in the programs offered. This resolution would expand the ability of the Probation Department to incentivize other programs offered outside of the Community Corrections Center and provide the opportunity to reach both Juvenile and Adult clients to reinforce appropriate behavior and enable positive change. The department has identified $6,000 in the current fiscal year budget for this purpose, but does not anticipate spending that entire amount.
Evidence shows that incentives are an effective means of motivating individuals to change their behavior. Using a balance of rewards and sanctions in a consistent manner will motivate both adult and youthful offenders to change behavior, thus reducing recidivism and further victimization, thereby increasing public safety. Incentives include rewards, positive reinforcement, compliments, affirmations and reducing ongoing punishment or restriction, and are proportionate with the behavior of the offender. Incentives encourage pro-social behavior and are used to hold offenders accountable to promote ...
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