Browsing by Author "Otto, H. Douglas"
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Item A Study of Drug Testing Practices in Probation(Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority, 1/30/2020) Reichert, Jessica; Weisner, Lauren; Otto, H. DouglasIndividuals on probation often are subject to drug testing regardless of conviction offenses. Positive test results can lead to probation sanctions, technical violations, and revocations, which, for some, may result in a period of incarceration. Probation departments operate with a lack of guidance on drug testing and a lack of research on drug testing's impact on reducing recidivism or improving behavioral health. In a survey of a statewide random sample of Illinois probation departments, the current study examined the landscape of probation policies and procedures and drug testing administration. The survey revealed many probation departments did not randomly test probation clients, often responded to positive drug tests with punitive measures, and infrequently offered positive feedback, or contingency management, for negative test results.Item A study of housing options for probationers with substance use disorders(Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority, 2023-10-23) Reichert, Jessica; Zerof, Eli; Ott Hill, Eva; Otto, H. Douglas; McCabe, Caroline; Bouchard, Lindsay; Green, Emilee; Boulger, JordanThere are over 3 million persons on probation in this country and many struggle with both maintaining recovery from substance use disorders and obtaining secure housing. However, stable housing for those in probation in recovery can potentially reduce relapse and recidivism. We examined recovery housing needs from the perspectives of probation supervisors and clients of Cook County Adult Probation. We administered surveys to probation supervisors and interviewed three clients in recovery as case studies. We learned probation supervisors are in need of further housing training and resources to aid clients in recovery. Clients reported unemployment and a lack of assistance in obtaining affordable housing. We recommend probation departments improve collaboration with housing service providers; obtain training on housing; and utilize recovery housing resources to better serve their clients.Item Criminal Justice System Utilization in Rural Areas(Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA), 2020) Weisner, Lauren; Otto, H. Douglas; Adams, Sharyn; Reichert, JessicaCriminal justice systems operating in rural areas have been overlooked and under-researched, creating an emphasis on urban criminal justice system knowledge and recommendations. In addition, many rural areas have fewer social and behavioral health services, longer travel distances for service appointments and corresponding transportation issues, a small pool of criminal justice practitioners, and outdated technology and infrastructure. Researchers explored literature on rural crime and criminal justice systems in Illinois and nationally and examined state data trends. Findings indicate Illinois’ rural counties utilized the justice system more than urban counties, with higher rates of drug arrests, criminal court cases filed, probation caseloads, and prison admissions and exits. (Author Abstract)Item Criminal Justice System Utilization in Rural Areas(Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority, 3/18/2020) Weisner, Lauren; Otto, H. Douglas; Adams, Sharyn; Reichert, JessicaCriminal justice systems operating in rural areas have been overlooked and under-researched, creating an emphasis on urban criminal justice system knowledge and recommendations. In addition, many rural areas have fewer social and behavioral health services, longer travel distances for service appointments and corresponding transportation issues, a small pool of criminal justice practitioners, and outdated technology and infrastructure. Researchers explored literature on rural crime and criminal justice systems in Illinois and nationally and examined state data trends. Findings indicate Illinois' rural counties utilized the justice system more than urban counties, with higher rates of drug arrests, criminal court cases filed, probation caseloads, and prison admissions and exits.Item Issues in Policing Rural Areas: A Review of the Literature(Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA), 2020) Weisner, Lauren; Otto, H. Douglas; Adams, SharynCriminal justice issues are typically studied in urban rather than rural areas. This represents an important deficit in the understanding of policing issues, as most police departments are in rural jurisdictions. Research indicates rural police departments often operate with fewer resources, lower staffing levels, and more inferior technology than their urban counterparts. Other research shows urban and rural officers experience different sources of job-related stress and its manifestations. As such, further research is needed to determine the extent of these differences so that solutions tailored to address the needs of small rural departments and their officers may be better implemented. (Author Abstract)Item The Criminal Justice System and Pandemic Preparedness and response: Operating in the Age of Coronavirus(Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority, 4/16/2020) Reichert, Jessica; Gleicher, Lily; Otto, H. Douglas; Vasquez, Amanda; Watkins, WilliamThe COVID-19 pandemic poses unique challenges for the criminal justice system. Despite statewide social distancing and stay-in-place orders, criminal justice practitioners and victim service providers must, to some extent, continue to interact directly with justice-involved individuals, victims, and others. This article describes some of the challenges confronting criminal justice system practitioners during the pandemic and offers guidance on policy and practices to ensure their safety. Topics covered include policing, crime trends, community supervision, jails, prisons, victim services, behavioral health, homelessness, and additional resources.