A pilot study on a new model of probation and parole in Queensland has been found to reduce reoffending rates by 28%.
The Environmental Corrections model of offender supervision was designed by Griffith University criminologist Dr Lacey Schaefer, and trialled at a probation and parole district office in southeast Queensland.
After six months, the recidivism rate for offenders supervised at the trial office was substantially lower following the introduction of the new model of supervision compared to the rate of reoffending for those offenders supervised at the control office.
Dr Lacey Schaefer
“Queensland has a high rate of recidivism, so we proposed a new model to enhance the efficacy of its community supervision of offenders,’’ Dr Schaefer said.
Opportunity and propensity
The Environmental Corrections model addresses the two main factors leading to crime – opportunity and propensity.
“Rather than applying generic supervision stipulations, offenders’ routine activities are restructured so that exposure to crime opportunities are minimised.
“Probation and