A Study of Drug Testing Practices in Probation
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Date
1/30/2020
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority
Abstract
Individuals 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.
Description
Individuals 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.
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Keywords
Conditions of Probation, Drug Testing/Detection