Comparative analysis of post release control and the parole release in Ohio; Which is reflective of the purpose in sentencing?, /

Abstract

This thesis examines the difference between two post-incarcerative practices in Ohio. The comparisons sought to establish the practice that offered the greatest punitive value while protecting Ohio's citizens from crime. Eighty parole cases were compared to 80 Post Release Control offenders. Variables ranged from descriptive data to programming information that the offenders participated in while confined and while under supervision in a community setting. Statistically significant correlations were found to exist in the following areas: The number ofcharges at arrest; the seriousness ofoffense at arrest; the manner by which the sentence was imposed; the most serious offense at conviction; substance abuse programming in the community; mental health services in the community; which practice succeeded on intensive supervision; and, the absconder rate. Pearson Chi-square was used in observing the difference between the observed sample distribution and that expected for a population. Also, independent 1: test was used to compare the sample length ofincarceration. The study found parole to be more punitive than PRC when using the time spent incarcerated as a gauge to assess punishment. However, more time was spent monitoring the compliance ofPRC offenders due to the enhanced need endemic ofthe PRC profile. Therefore, supervision measured as a means of incapacitation was greater under PRC. Finally, because parole offenders are more likely to engage in treatment in the community, it stands to reason that their risk to the community would be displaced more often than that of the PRC offender.