The Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) has released a lot of new data over the past few weeks that help us finally see — both nationally and state-by-state — how policy choices made in the first year of the pandemic impacted correctional populations. Unsurprisingly, the numbers document the tragedy of thousands of lives lost behind […]
The American Probation and Parole Association is pleased to issue a Call for Presenters for its 47th Annual Training Institute, August 28 – 31, 2022, in Chicago IL. Learn more from this informative flyer.
A bill targeting multiple areas of juvenile justice reform passed a committee vote Wednesday. The Indiana House Committee on Courts and Criminal Code unanimously passed House Bill 1359, which would prohibit children under the age of 12 from being detained, create better data collection, implement risk assessment tools and boost support for youth re-entering society, among […]
A package of bills proposed by Republican senators in efforts to curb crime in Marion County were met with some opposition during a committee hearing. The bills were unveiled last month, and the Senate Corrections and Criminal Law Committee heard testimony Tuesday. More than 20 people signed up to speak at the hearing, including members of […]
Indiana Chief Justice Loretta H. Rush addressed the Governor and a joint session of the Indiana General Assembly for the annual State of the Judiciary. The formal update on the work of the judicial branch was held today in the chamber of the Indiana House of Representatives. Read and watch the speech online –>
A big jump in Indiana county jail overcrowding has state lawmakers looking to partially roll back a nearly decade-old criminal sentencing overhaul and let judges send more people convicted of low-level felonies into state prisons. An Indiana House committee voted this past week in favor of a proposal dropping the state’s requirement that most people sentenced for […]
Marcos Nieves lived in Hampshire House in Manchester, federal transitional housing for people reentering New Hampshire communities from federal prisons. He needed an apartment or, to begin, a room in a rooming house. He had a job at Popeyes earning $13 an hour. He has skills running heavy equipment and wants to get another job […]
With deepest sorrow, the University of Cincinnati Corrections Institute announces the passing of our Director, Dr. Edward J. Latessa, on January 11, 2022 at 5:55pm ET after a long and fierce battle with cancer. Dr. Latessa was a devoted leader and a trusted advisor to corrections agencies worldwide, and the tremendous loss of his presence […]
The ways that people on probation tend to think about crime can offer important clues about whether they will resume or reject a criminal life. A number of past studies have examined how probationers’ cognitions relate to recidivism, that is, a return to criminal activity. Less of the research has looked at links between cognition […]
PHILADELPHIA, PA – The Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office (DAO), in a news conference that was livestreamed on Facebook, District Attorney Larry Krasner said the DAO has come up with two different waves of probation and parole policy changes. “These policies are closely connected in my mind to public safety because we all live in a […]
The Carey Group (TCG) and Carey Group Publishing (CGP) have recently been acquired by Empower Community Care. This acquisition brings TCG and CGP into a family of programs and services that, like our own, help people who are justice-involved improve their lives. Empower’s mission—to transform the lives of troubled youth, adults, their families, and their […]
You are invited to an event to learn more about Indiana’s My Healthy Baby initiative, which will launch in Brown, Monroe, and Owen counties in January 2022. The hour-long event will include an overview of the program and outline how you can help achieve the goal of saving at least 200 babies a year by […]
After several months of analysis and policy development, in 2017 Georgia Governor Nathan Deal signed Act 226, which codified the Justice Reinvestment policy framework developed by the Georgia Council on Criminal Justice Reform. It included policies to reduce lengthy probation terms and large probation caseloads, improve the cost-effectiveness of responses to probation and parole violations, […]
LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Just after lunch on Dec. 22, Joe Hooker walked into the Circuit Court at the Tippecanoe County Court and was greeted by friends and his former colleagues. Hooker wasn’t sure why everybody had gathered. Perhaps they were there to convince him to return to his old position as a Tippecanoe County probation […]
The COVID-19 pandemic strained problem-solving courts’ ability to ensure access to effective treatment and encourage connection and purpose. Vigo County Veterans Treatment Court coordinator James Ramer wanted to motivate participants to remain engaged, connected, and motivated. He challenged participants to remain sanction free for six months with the reward of seeing him shave his head. […]
Angie Hensley-Langrel, Deputy Director of Justice Services | Office of Court Services
Seven years ago, former Chief Justice Brent Dickson established the Committee to Study Evidence-Based Pretrial Release. Since then, pretrial release was a focal point of Indiana’s Evidence-Based Decision-Making initiative and is now a crucial part of the Justice Reinvestment Advisory Council’s (JRAC) responsibilities. In 2020 the Pretrial Services Rules and Pretrial Release committees were established […]
The American Parole and Probation Association (APPA) will host the annual Winter Training Institute from January 30th, 2022 to February 2nd, 2022 in a hybrid format. The institute will include topics on supervision strategies, leadership and management, reentry, research/evidence-based practices, mental health and substance use, diversity, and juvenile justice. Be sure to catch the EXiT […]
Julie Whitman, Executive Director | Commission on Improving the Status of Children in Indiana
An adult with a serious mental illness or an intellectual disability, who has been accused of a crime, may be found incompetent to stand trial and may receive services to attain competency. But when it comes to juveniles and the delinquency court, Indiana has not had a clear process for determining a child’s competency to […]
Please save the date for an event to learn more about Indiana’s My Healthy Baby initiative, which will be launching in Brown, Monroe, and Owen Counties in January 2022. We will be providing an overview of the program and will outline how you can help achieve the goal of saving at least 200 babies a […]
Judge Kimberly S. Dowling | Delaware Circuit Court 2
In 2021, the Indiana Supreme Court created the Civil Litigation Taskforce as part of the Indiana Innovation Initiative. The Taskforce includes attorneys and judges from around the state and is chaired by attorney Steven Badger of Barnes and Thornburg. The Court directed the Taskforce to focus on improving civil litigation procedures and case management. Subcommittees […]
“What we say within a group, the ideas we suggest, and the way we support others, signals something about who we are to our coworkers. It can attract people to us or repel them,” says Melissa Chamberlin, assistant professor of management and entrepreneurship at Iowa State University, and coauthor of a paper on the topic […]
This report is the 29th in a series that began in 1981. It includes characteristics of the population such as sex, race or ethnicity, and most serious offense of adult U.S. residents under correctional supervision in the community. The report details how people move onto and off community supervision, such as completing their term of […]
John McGauley, Court Administrator | Allen Superior Court
For Indiana courts, the COVID-19 pandemic meant an unprecedented time of change and challenge. When the time came to rethink the way in which it did business, Allen Superior Court found an opportunity amidst the turmoil. In the summer of 2021, after months of research, the Court launched a program to find former property owners […]
A year after a state task force was created to improve Indiana’s juvenile justice system, recommendations for change are now headed to lawmakers. Tuesday the Indiana Juvenile Justice Reform Task Force endorsed a broad range of proposals that would establish statewide norms and tweak parts of the complex laws for how courts and law enforcement interact with […]
This article is a subsection of Chapter 2 of the Supervision section from the Probation and Pretrial Services Article from the United States Courts web page. Indiana is focusing hard on the Evidence based practices but at the same time it seems like many departments are dropping the home visit portion of supervision. I am […]
You are welcome to register for a virtual training opportunity on December 15, 2021, from 1:30 p.m. – 2:45 p.m. EST. The training will demonstrate how different local JRACs formed their structure and why, what processes they have in place, how to work with your council on reporting requirements, and how reporting requirements will guide […]
The Monroe County Housing Authority and Tomah Public Housing Authority have agreed to merge operations, in a move that will streamline services and open up housing options for the people the two agencies serve. Because both agencies are so small, merging will make operations more efficient and clients will only have to deal with one […]
COLUMBUS, Ohio – The shape of Ohio’s state government for the next decade will be in the balance Wednesday as the Ohio Supreme Court hears arguments on new legislative maps that voter-rights and Democratic groups say are gerrymandered to favor Republicans. Lawyers for the state will be defending the district boundaries, which are likely to […]
An Evansville woman’s death in an apparent murder-suicide raises questions about whether victims of domestic violence should be able to impede authorities from bringing charges against their abuser. In the weeks leading up to 34-year-old Rachael Feazell’s death at the hands of Ryan Hopkins, police were aware of at least two domestic violence incidents involving Hopkins […]
INDIANAPOLIS — We continue our deep dive into pre-trial release and GPS monitoring in Marion County after at least two people were murdered in July, allegedly by people wearing monitors and out on bond. There are roughly 3,400 people on GPS monitoring and home detention, which includes GPS monitoring, in Marion County between pre-trial release […]
Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra today announced the release of the new HHS Overdose Prevention Strategy, designed to increase access to the full range of care and services for individuals who use substances that cause overdose, and their families. This new strategy focuses on the multiple substances involved in overdose and the diverse […]
Early in October, more than 20,000 letters went out to residents of Mississippi and Florida letting them know the good news: Their private probation debt had been erased. “Jubilant Greetings!” the letters opened, informing debtors of their good fortune before launching into pointed critique of America’s fraudulent justice system that disproportionately incarcerates poor people and […]
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Rhode Island’s governor has appointed someone who once was incarcerated to the state’s parole board for the first time. Democratic Gov. Dan McKee said Friday that he appointed Peter Slom, making him the first formerly incarcerated person to join the Rhode Island Parole Board. Slom went before the board in 1992, […]
In July 2021, the Association for Continuing Legal Education presented its Award of Outstanding Achievement to the Indiana State Bar Association for Open Conversations: Racism and Racial Injustice, an ISBA program of dialogue and introspection about race and culture in the legal landscape. The program has heightened awareness within the legal community of racism and […]
Josh W. Sipes, Chief Probation Officer, was awarded the Judge Terry Snow Award in appreciation for outstanding leadership, service and dedication to the children of Hancock County at a recent volunteer appreciation dinner of the Hancock County Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). Pictured with Sipes is Marciann McClarnon Miller, director of Friends of Hancock County […]
The Monroe County Council has approved three new positions within the county’s judicial system to provide more training to probation officers and improve court system navigation for families going through child services. Becca Streit, director of community corrections and assistant chief probation officer, announced to the council on Tuesday that the department has been awarded […]
The Vera Institute of Justice recently published a report analyzing data from nine cities and counties participating in the Safety and Justice Challenge (SJC) which seeks to address over-incarceration by changing the way the United States thinks about and uses jails. This report explores how probation drives jail populations in racially disparate ways—through stringent and difficult to meet […]
We’re ready to reveal our big 2022 Corporate Sponsor plans. Here is a link to the new Tier sheet. Please notice now Gold Sponsors are limited to 3 on a first come, first served basis and will be the only tier on our Jobs page. Please mark your calendars to join us at these conferences: […]
Cobb County, Georgia Superior Court Judge Robert D. Leonard II, in a blistering decision, banned the elf, a stuffed toy that serves as a lookout for Santa around the world. Santa Claus may have to find a new way to spy on children in Cobb County, Georgia after a blistering court decision banning the Elf […]
Kathryn Dolan, Chief Public Information Officer | Office of Communication, Education & Outreach
When you reach a summit, it’s only natural to declare victory, but some journeys demand looking for an even higher peak. Exploring what Indiana’s court system can be—how it can best serve the community and resolve disputes fairly and efficiently—means looking for the next mountain to climb. This is exactly what the Supreme Court has […]
Get information about My Healthy Baby, a Statewide initiative to support new and expecting Mothers by matching them with helpful free resources. Sign up to receive updates and invitations to informational webinars from the Indiana OB Navigator Program: https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/INSDHB5/signup/16028
This past October marked Youth Justice Action Month, which has now become a national rallying cry for a new approach to youth justice. In the 13 years since the first action month, many conditions have changed for youth in the legal system, but one fact remains the same: the youth legal system doesn’t work. Congress […]
Intelligent fingerprinting may be a valuable new way to detect drug use. A fingerprint drug test uses small amounts of sweat on the tip of a person’s finger to measure drug content in their body. The finger is pressed against a tamper-proof cartridge and results appear on a screen. The sample can be collected in […]
New York City expanded its vaccine mandate to all employees Wednesday while Chicago began to place police officers who refused to disclose vaccine status on unpaid leave. Cities that mandate Covid-19 vaccinations for municipal workers are beginning to crack down on employees who refuse inoculations, with some preparing to suspend or fire holdouts in the […]
The Final Report of the committee is attached and is posted online HERE. https://iga.in.gov/documents/b7b4d6db The report contains hyperlinks to the Minutes from the three (3) meetings and hyperlinks to all exhibits.
After months of lockdowns, capacity restrictions and mandated closures, small businesses crept back into the economy this summer only to face a record-setting labor shortage. Among small businesses, 49 percent reported persistent job vacancies this summer, especially in low-skill industries. This labor crisis presents a unique opportunity to get millions of formerly incarcerated Americans into […]
COMMENTARY | Studies show that many police officers suffer trauma on the job. Officer wellness programs can help them better serve their communities. Public demand for police reform continues unabated nearly a year and a half since the killing of George Floyd. Congress, statehouses and city councils nationwide are weighing a dizzying array of proposals. […]
EASTON — Although small in stature, Amanda Tondin, a case manager with the Talbot County Department of Corrections, commands respect from her peers and has a huge heart for the inmate population she serves. Recently she helped an 18-year-old female inmate get her high school diploma — an important completer step toward the inmate’s future. […]
C.J. Miller, POPAI District 5 Representative, has been selected to be the POPAI Treasurer. This leaves the District 5 Representative position open so POPAI seeks Intent to Run forms from interested qualified candidates. Candidates must be POPAI Members in good standing and able to fulfill the responsibilities outlined in the Intent to Run Form as […]
Indiana Supreme Court Justice Steven H. David will step down from the bench in the fall of 2022 after nearly 30 years as a judicial branch leader. He is Indiana’s 106th Supreme Court justice and the longest-serving justice currently on the Court. In addition to his commitment to the Indiana Judiciary, David retired from the United States […]
This guide outlines need-to-know information about how state and local leaders can leverage American Rescue Plan funding to advance eight key criminal justice priorities. In March 2021, Congress passed a $1.9 trillion federal stimulus bill aimed at combating the devastating economic and public health consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. The American Rescue Plan offers an […]
The Supreme Court ruled in 2008 that you have a constitutional right to have a gun in your home. Now, the justices will consider how far outside of the home that right extends. The Supreme Court is set to hear arguments Nov. 3, 2021, on a clear question: Does the constitutional right to possess a […]
The wait at fast food drive-thrus are as long as 30 minutes. Restaurants have cut back hours. And pools can’t find enough life guards. Even places that have raised wages are struggling to hire. Over the summer. Gov. Eric Holcomb tried to cut federal unemployment a few months early to get the hundreds of thousands […]
FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) — It is a new grim milestone. The U.S. Department of Justice Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) announced that 9.5 million counterfeit pills were seized so far this year with more than 93,000 overdoses across the nation – a new yearly record. One of the causes is believed to be fentanyl, and […]
Joseph Friedman, Fernando Montero Castillo, Phillippe Bourgois, Rafik Wahbi, Daniel Dye, David Goodman, Chelsea Shover
Background Recent sharp exacerbations of the US overdose crisis have been linked to systemic polysubstance use and potent synthetic compounds in numerous drug classes. Xylazine is a veterinary tranquilizer, long noted in the opioid supply of Puerto Rico, and more recently Philadelphia. Yet its national growth over time, geographic distribution, and potential role in the […]
This training is a 12-month journey of self-discovery and organizational change that provides current and potential managers in community supervision the opportunity to develop the knowledge and competencies required of effective leaders. The class will begin January 28, 2022, in conjunction with APPA’s 2022 Winter Training Institute in Atlanta, GA. Apply by November 10, 2021.
Delaware’s prison population has dropped significantly since Gov. John Carney took office in 2018. Back then, there were about 5,500 people being held in prison. Now that number hovers around 4,000, a drop of about 30%. While happy to see the prison population trending down, Carney isn’t satisfied with the state’s recidivism rate, or how […]
(The Center Square) – Pennsylvania senators agreed Tuesday to send a bill that reforms punishments for probation violations to the chamber floor. Senate Bill 913 advanced out of the Judiciary Committee on a unanimous vote. The proposal makes probation violation punishments uniform across the state and reconsiders incarceration as punishment for minor infractions. “Probation is […]
Probation was designed to be an alternative to incarceration, yet for many people under supervision it turns out be a pathway that inevitably leads them there. Nationwide, one in 57 people—nearly 2% of the adult population—is under supervision. Despite this, we know very little about how to effectively manage and support people on probation in […]
Executives Transforming Probatoin and Parole (EXiT) member Julie Rud talked with Justice Lab staff about some of the changes her agency has made to their drug testing protocols, both before and since the pandemic. Rud shared how such policies evolved from data-driven conversations, and how the changes are entwined with a larger understanding of the […]
GOLDEN, Colo. – On Saturday, anyone with an active warrant in Jefferson or Gilpin Counties for low-level misdemeanors like traffic offenses, probation violations, shoplifting or trespassing had the opportunity to have it wiped without being arrested. The event was made possible through the “Fresh Start” program, the first of its kind in Jefferson County. “We’re […]
RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — Tens of thousands of North Carolina residents convicted of felonies but whose current punishments don’t include prison time can register to vote and cast ballots, a judicial panel declared Monday. Several civil rights groups and ex-offenders who sued legislative leaders and state officials in 2019 argue the current 1973 law is […]
Michael Coriell, POPAI Treasurer, has resigned so POPAI seeks Intent to Run forms from interested candidates. Candidates must be POPAI Members in good standing and able to fulfill the responsibilities outlined in the Intent to Run Form. The form must be returned to C.J. Miller (contact information on the form) by Tuesday, November 9th at […]
APPA’s newly elected and/or appointed regional and area representatives are hard at work. They know there is strength in numbers and to advance the field of community corrections it will require all of us to work together. APPA is YOUR professional membership association and YOU are invited to be part of it! During the fourth […]
A group that advocates for incarcerated people provides states and localities recommendations for keeping citizens who committed minor offenses out of jails and prisons. As the coronavirus pandemic swept the nation last spring, state and local government policymakers enacted measures to try to keep incarcerated individuals healthy: They released some people from jails and prisons, […]
BİOSİS- Electronic Tracking and Monitoring via Biometric Verification Method Project is carried out with the aim of more effective enforcement of probation measures and monitoring the probationers in this field in a cheap, more contemporary, fair and respectful for human dignity principle. Innovative system BİOSİS is an innovative system that will contribute to the spread […]
Sarah Lochner, POPAI Vice President, has resigned so POPAI seeks Intent to Run forms from interested candidates. Candidates must be POPAI Members in good standing and able to fulfill the responsibilities outlined in the Intent to Run Form. The form must be returned to C.J. Miller (contact information on the form) by Wednesday, November 3rd […]
Although there is no evidence that demonstrates cause and effect between poverty and addiction, studies have shown that substance abuse is more common among individuals of lower economic status. Poverty in the United States is measured by comparing a person’s or a family’s income to a minimum amount of income needed to cover basic needs. […]
One of every 58 American adults is currently under some form of community correctional supervision. People placed on community supervision often have significant human service needs, some of which are addressed through correctional agency resources, but most of which are met, if at all, through community-based human service agencies. People on community supervision connect to […]
Register to learn about Indiana’s Dual Status legislation and processes during a Wednesday, December 1, noon to 3:00 p.m. training with free CLE/CJE. Judicial officers, probation officers, family case managers, CASAs, attorneys, and court staff are encouraged to attend. Contact Colleen Saylor with questions.
IOCS is now accepting grant applications for Family Recovery Courts, Pretrial Services and Veterans Treatment Courts for calendar year 2022. Apply by November 1 at 6:00 p.m. (Eastern). Applicants must have a letter of intent submitted or be currently certified by IOCS and meet the eligibility criteria to apply. Contact IOCSGrants@courts.in.gov with questions.
The NADCP and NDCI collaborated with forensic toxicologist Paul L. Cary to create this handout that “provides answers to a series of frequently asked questions about creatinine as it relates to drug and alcohol screening.”
INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs is partnering with the Family and Social Services Administration to launch the Recovery Housing Pilot Program. The program will allocate funding for communities to provide transitional housing for people in recovery from substance use disorder. The state has received more than $1.7 million to administer […]
A new report from the Council of State Governments Justice Center reveals that prison populations shrunk by an unprecedented 14 percent in 2020 (167,000 fewer people were in state prisons). However, supervision violations still drive a substantial share of new admissions—accounting for 42 percent of prison admissions in 2020. This included roughly 98,000 people admitted to prison […]
Save the Date: Luncheons for My Healthy Baby Program launches in Daviess, Greene, Gibson, Posey, Vanderburgh and Warrick counties October 4 and Pike and Knox Counties in early 2022 Please save the date for Lunch events led by State Health Commissioner Dr. Kris Box to learn more about Indiana’s My Healthy Baby initiative. Evansville, Indiana […]
This report presents national data on adult offenders under community supervision on probation or parole in 2019. It includes characteristics of the population, such as sex, race or Hispanic origin, and most serious offense. The report details how offenders move onto and off community supervision, such as completing their term of supervision, being incarcerated, absconding, […]
Entrepreneurship presents powerful opportunities for individuals and communities. Here at The Mill, we want to grow our startup ecosystem and create access for more people, including the formerly incarcerated. Participants in this six-week program learn how to focus their business ideas, get customer validation, and present their business to potential investors. At the end of […]
Pandemic restrictions and other factors, more than the defund the police movement after George Floyd’s death, has forced police departments nationwide to refocus on how they reach potential candidates. In Denver, Seattle and Portland, Oregon, commuters are driving past billboards that advertise jobs with hiring bonuses of up to $15,000—for police officers. Meanwhile, Chandler, Arizona, is dangling […]
Indianapolis, IN – A hand-made quilt can provide a feeling of caring and comfort almost as if you’re getting a hug from a loved one. Incarcerated individuals at the Indiana Women’s Prison (IWP) wanted to provide that care and comfort to the Indiana Youth Group (IYG). The incarcerated individuals hand-stitched a king-sized quilt featuring the IYG logo and colors. The quilt serves as a token of appreciation for all […]
Our friends at IACCAC sent over the following information for their November Conference. Please address any questions directly to them. The 2021 IACCAC Fall Training Institute will be held Tuesday, November 16 – Thursday, November 18, 2021 at the Hyatt Regency Indianapolis, located at One South Capitol, Indianapolis, Indiana 46204. The conference will also feature […]
Georgia will establish a phlebotomy program to instruct law enforcement officers on how to collect blood samples, the latest in a growing number of states to embrace the practice. Law enforcement officers in Georgia will be trained in phlebotomy, allowing them to draw blood from drunk driving suspects on the road, officials with the Georgia […]
On Thursday, September 9, 2021 at the Probation Officers Professional Association of Indiana (POPAI) annual fall conference, Valerie Runyon, of Wells County Probation, was awarded the “Rookie Probation Officer of the Year Award”. This award was established in 2014 to recognize probation officers who, while at the beginning of their career, show the attitude, aptitude, […]
Allen Circuit Court’s Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated Court has become the first of its kind in the state to receive full certification. The court program, located in Fort Wayne, was given provisional certification by the Indiana Supreme Court in July 2020, allowing it to accept participants charged with drunken driving as a felony, The Journal […]
On Thursday, September 9, 2021 at the Probation Officers Professional Association of Indiana (POPAI) annual fall conference, Susan Allen of the Monroe Circuit Court Probation Department was awarded the “Founder’s Award”. The “Founder’s Award” is a way of recognizing individuals who have significantly contributed to the field of probation in general and specifically to the […]
On Thursday, September 9, 2021 at the Probation Officers Professional Association of Indiana (POPAI) annual fall conference, Allen Waller, a probation officer with Vanderburgh Juvenile Probation, was presented the “Line Probation Officer of the Year Award.” This award was established in 2014 to recognize line probation officers who have performed their duties in an outstanding […]
Indiana wants to provide temporary housing for people recovering from substance abuse issues. The federal government provided the state with nearly $2 million for the Recovery Housing Pilot Program. The money will go to communities around the state that set up transitional housing for people in recovery from substance abuse disorders. It can be used […]
Sumner County Youth Empowerment (SCYE) is Tennessee’s first juvenile mental health court. The intensive probation and treatment program, which kicked off in May and welcomed its first case last month, is designed to help vulnerable youth avoid the adult court system. “We figured a court is the best place to start. The purpose is to […]
You are invited to a virtual event to learn more about Indiana’s My Healthy Baby initiative, which will be launching in Benton, Carroll, Clinton, Fountain, Montgomery, Tippecanoe, Warren, and White counties this September. We will be providing an overview of the program and will outline how you can help achieve the goal of saving at […]
The 2021 Fall Conference brought POPAI Members together for learning, networking, and general catching up. Pictured R to L: Don Travis, Former President; Linda Brady, Former President; Adam McQueen, Immediate Past President; Troy Hatfield, Current POPAI President.
LAGRANGE – As LaGrange County’s JDAI coordinator, Randy Merrifield’s focused on ways hopes will help local teens stay out of trouble. One issue that’s worried Merrifield is that high school juniors and seniors are so busy working toward graduating that they fail to create solid connections to the communities they grow up in. So he’s […]
Adolescent marijuana use and binge drinking did not significantly change during the COVID-19 pandemic, despite record decreases in the substances’ perceived availability, according to a survey of 12th graders in the United States. The study’s findings, which appeared online on June 24, 2021, in Drug and Alcohol Dependence, challenge the idea that reducing adolescent use […]
What began as an inspection for child pornography in Loogootee turned into a federal indictment for thousands of rounds of munitions. The U.S. Attorney for Southern Indiana reports a federal grand jury has returned an indictment on Timothy L. Guy, 74, Loogootee, charging him with possession of a firearm by a felon, possession of stolen […]
The deadline (September 10, 2021) to register to attend this year’s ICCADS Fall Training is quickly approaching. This year’s training will be held October 6, 7, and 8th in beautiful and scenic Nashville, Indiana at the Brown County Inn. Topics for this year’s training are scheduled to include: Court Alcohol and Drug Demographics Current Topics […]
NAPSA will host its 2021 virtual conference over several dates in September and October. This special event will be live-streamed from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. EDT beginning on Tuesday, September 28, continuing on Thursday, September 30 and Tuesday, October 5, and concluding on Thursday, October 7. The conference will offer everything you expect from a […]
Justice Christopher Goff sat down with David Bottorff, executive director of Association of Indiana Counties, to discuss the Justice Reinvestment Advisory Council and criminal justice system.
Indiana has been famously anti-pot for a while now. The state was one of the first to ban cannabis without a prescription back in 1913, as Eli Lilly cultivated one of the nation’s biggest marijuana farms. When the federal government cracked down on the plant in 1937, Indiana followed suit with some of the nation’s toughest state-level restrictions. Today, cannabis is listed as a Schedule 1 controlled substance – under state law, possessing a joint […]
On behalf of POPAI, we are so glad that you are joining us this week for the 2021 POPAI Fall Conference. We are expecting one of our largest conferences to date. While we are excited that we are able to join together, we also want to ensure that we are doing everything possible within our […]
A message from the Putnam County Adult Probation Department: It is with great sorrow that we inform you of the passing of one of Putnam County’s Probation Officers, Kim Thibodeau. On August 31, 2021, Kim lost a hard-fought battle with breast cancer. Kim was one of the finest, most dedicated employees to pass through the […]
LAGRANGE – As LaGrange County’s JDAI coordinator, Randy Merrifield’s focused on ways hopes will help local teens stay out of trouble. One issue that’s worried Merrifield is that high school juniors and seniors are so busy working toward graduating that they fail to create solid connections to the communities they grow up in. So he’s […]
Max Yoder is CEO and co-founder of Lessonly, the training software company that helps teams learn, practice, and do better work. He is also the author of Do Better Work, a book about being a better teammate. Max lives in Indianapolis, Indiana with his wife, Jess and daughter Marina. He was cut from the basketball […]
Indiana leaders are taking a comprehensive look at the state’s juvenile justice system. That includes broad data analysis, interviews with key stakeholders and recommendations for improvements. The goal is reform – and maybe even transformation – of the system. The Juvenile Justice Reform Task Force is made up of members of all three branches of government, as […]
Our event is just around the corner, and over 300 Probation Professionals from around Indiana are gathering at French Lick Resort on September 8-10. We will be joined by the following Corporate Sponsors:
INDIANAPOLIS — Masks will be required in the City-County building starting Tuesday. The latest mandate comes as the COVID-19 positivity rate continues to rise, with Marion County currently seeing 10.5% of all tested cases coming back positive. According to the county, the Marion County Superior Court has “experienced the highest simultaneous number of positive cases […]
Get the 2021 POPAI Fall Conference official conference app. Event Invitation code : contact Karen ContactUsAtPOPAI@gmail.com Get the most out of the app and have a more productive experience! 1 NAVIGATE the event agenda and logistics, even without Wi-Fi or data. Access useful information like ridesharing and local attractions through the Community Board 2 NETWORK […]
Does your caseload include pregnant women? If so, My Healthy Baby may be able to help. My Healthy Baby connects pregnant women with local organizations that provide personalized guidance and support throughout pregnancy and baby’s first year of life. These organizations include home visiting programs like Healthy Families, Nurse Family Partnership, and Early Head Start […]
On June 23, the U.S. Department of the Treasury released a new round of frequently asked questions (FAQs) that provide guidance to state & local governments on allowable uses of federal funds received through the American Rescue Plan. The document included the following question and answer: Q: “Would expenses to address a COVID-related backlog in […]
This coffee chat will be focused on earned time credit policies, which is one of the policy aims highlighted in EXiT’s foundational Statement. In particular, Barb will share about Arizona’s experience of implementing earned time credit, challenges related to the intersection of earned time and supervision fines/fees, overall successes, and other lessons learned. This coffee chat will explore […]
APPA’s latest edition of Perspectives expands its scope internationally on restorative justice. Come with us as we explore the challenges our peers face abroad and learn about their approaches. Through examples of diverse practices, discover what effective programs have in common and what research should support these efforts. Be encouraged by how restorative justice can […]
Community identification cards allow immigrants and others in vulnerable populations access to IDs and help them build relationships with law enforcement, according to the Policy Executive Research Forum. There are about 11 million undocumented immigrants living in the U.S. but only 16 states, the District of Columbia and 20 cities allow undocumented persons to apply […]
The Monroe County Board of Commissioners, in collaboration with the Monroe Circuit Court and Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative (JDAI), contracted with Robin Donaldson/Collective Impact Training and Consulting to present a series of educational sessions explaining adolescent brain development. Recordings of the educational sessions, entitled ADOLESCENT BRAIN DEVELOPMENT SERIES FOR PARENTS, are now posted on the […]
INDIANAPOLIS — Victory Field, home of the Indianapolis Indians, now has two new ways to serve families with sensory needs after receiving sensory certification through a partnership with KultureCity, a nonprofit. Cheyne Reiter, Indians director of communications, says the recently installed sensory wall provides a place for families to get away from the loud noises […]
The Clark County Probation and Community Corrections Department showed it’s appreciation for its staff by having a theme on each workday of PPPS week (July 19-23). On Monday they came into the office to the smell of donuts awaiting them. Everyone was treated to a cookout at our Community Corrections building on Tuesday. The lunch […]
The following individuals have submitted Intent to Run forms for the POPAI Board. District 5 is contested and an election for only that position will be held during the Fall Conference in French Lick. District 1-Robert Schuster District 3-Megan Eakright District 5-CJ Miller and Amy Hall District 7-Rupert Strawbridge V-P-Sarah Lochner Treasurer-Michael Coriell Thank you […]
You are invited to an event to learn more about Indiana’s My Healthy Baby initiative, which will be launching in Vigo, Clay, Parke, Vermillion and Sullivan Counties this August. We will be providing an overview of the program and will outline how you can help achieve the goal of saving at least 200 babies a […]
The new Indiana Pregnancy Promise Program aims to identify pregnant Medicaid beneficiaries with opioid use disorder and connect them with prenatal care, OUD treatment, behavioral health services, and family supports and resources. Ultimately, we aim to improve outcomes for parents and infants impacted by OUD. This is a free, voluntary program. Anyone can make a […]
Every day across the country, traffic tickets, court fines & fees and fees in jails and prisons generate revenue for city governments. In many jurisdictions, fines and fees are viewed as just another source of funds to keep government functioning. But there are large hidden costs associated with some of them. First of all, many […]
If you’d like to be considered for the Mentor Program please complete the appropriate application no later than August 6th, 2021 at noon. These links will take you to detailed information about the program (including expectations and responsibilities) and an online application form. Mentee: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2KTZ9NF Mentor: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2KBK7CX The program will kick off just prior to […]
Measuring What Matters: Outcome and Performance Measures for the Pretrial Services Field, Second Edition, is the latest publication from the National Institute of Corrections outlining critical success criteria for the pretrial services field. Like its previous edition, Measuring What Matters, Second Edition, helps practitioners gather consistent and meaningful data to track the performance of pretrial […]
The Indiana Juvenile Detention Association provided a list of juvenile detention centers that accept juveniles whose cases were either waived or directly filed in adult court because certain crimes were committed. See the list of detention centers, that is subject to change. Contact Alison Cox, President, Indiana Juvenile Detention Association or Jeff Bercovitz with questions.
Encouraging Findings about Decarceration and Public Safety from the Safety and Justice Challenge The primary purpose of a jail is to detain those who are waiting for court proceedings and are considered a flight risk or public safety threat. However, many people admitted to jail are there because they cannot afford to post bail. As […]
This year we’re offering two great shirts with the POPAI and A Force for Positive Change logo. Eyewitnesses state both colors are not as bright as these images appear, more true to a heathered maroon and mossy green. Short sleeve $15.83, Long Sleeve $21.01 sizing is Unisex. Preorder through the Whova app for pickup […]
Michelle Phelps, Ingie Osman, Victoria Piehowski, De Andre' Beadle
A new report from Michelle Phelps, Kelly Mitchell, and colleagues at the University of Minnesota outlines the economic, social, and health needs of adults on probation. The report concludes with policy recommendations to improve community supervision in Hennepin County and across jurisdictions throughout the U.S.
One in 55 people are under community supervision—probation and parole—nationwide. Across all state prisons, nearly 25% of prison admissions are the result of technical violations of community supervision—often due to minor offenses, such as such as missing appointments with supervision officers, missed curfews, or failed drug tests. The Council of State Governments Justice Center reports […]
As our membership is made up of our most respected professionals, we are soliciting current Chiefs, Assistant Chiefs, and Probation Supervisors to act as mentors to incoming leadership. We are also ready to accept applications from CPO, ACPO, and Supervisor members to be mentees. If accepted into the program POPAI will cover the costs of […]
INDIANAPOLIS — At least 142 people have been killed so far this year. The violence in Indy creates devastating ripple effects throughout our entire community. Thankfully some invested adults are committed to encouraging our young people to rise above the violence. Mental health experts say a trusted adult and a safe environment can help children […]
A Scholarship Application is now available for community supervision staff to attend the Indiana Office of Court Services’ Skills-Based Workshop November 1-4, 2021 at the Marriott East Hotel in Indianapolis. It must be completed by September 1, 2021. This four day program includes the following trainings: Real Colors, Interviewing Skills, Case Management, and Carey Guides. It’s […]
At age 17, I was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole. I got out due to Supreme Court decisions, but there was one catch: Parole for the rest of my life. On the morning of Feb. 11, 2021, while residents of Philadelphia braced themselves for a winter storm, 83-year-old Joe Ligon prepared to […]
Updates: 9/3/2021 Registration is now closed. Remember to download the app. Participants are already connecting and working on their tasks and getting on the leaderboard, don’t be left behind. You can also view and select your breakout sessions which will help us GREATLY so we can put them in appropriately sized rooms for everyone’s health […]
This guide explains the features of the federal Justice Reinvestment Initiative (JRI), how it is implemented in a state, and the potential benefits of each stage of a JRI implementation. The JRI was developed and is administered by the U.S. Justice Department’s Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA). The JRI offers a participating state the resources […]
MACY, Ind. (WISH) — After a 2½-hour standoff Tuesday afternoon in Miami County, Indiana State Police arrested a 45-year-old man wanted for violation of parole from a 2013 conviction on drug and gun offenses out of Tippecanoe County. JF, of rural Macy, was jailed in Miami County with new, preliminary charges of resisting law enforcement; […]
Leslie Dunn, Deputy Director of Children & Families Division | Office of Court Services
The Indiana Supreme Court established the Indiana Innovation Initiative on September 24, 2019. As part of the Initiative, they created the Family Law Taskforce to evaluate existing research on court reform, strategies to improve court processes, and the impact of innovation in other states, and then provide a written report with findings and recommendations. Chaired […]
Visions: Newsletter of Our Lady of Victory Missionary Sisters
July 2021
Sister Mary Jo Nelson
It all began with questions… In February 2017, the OLVM Leadership Team invited a wide variety of human service providers in the Huntington Community to meet with them. We asked them two questions: 1) what is the most critical need in our community, and 2) how could our campus buildings be repurposed to meet this […]
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — There’s something special cooking in the basement of the Brookside Community Church on the near east side of Indianapolis. It’s a new place to get a quick bite for breakfast and it’s putting a spotlight on the neighborhood. The Brookside Burrito Company, which opened for business in April of 2021, is beginning […]
The Deadline for nominations has been extended to Friday August 13 at Noon EST for three awards traditionally presented during our Annual Meeting. The Founder’s Award is a way of recognizing individuals who have significantly contributed to the field of probation in general, and specifically to the POPAI organization. The recipient need not be a […]
The main 2021 legislative session concluded near the end of April. However, the House and Senate will reconvene later in the year to deal with redistricting after they receive the necessary information from the 2020 federal census. POPAI worked hard to advocate for our membership and though we were not successful in every endeavor (SEA […]
INDIANAPOLIS, Marion County — Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears detailed a program on Thursday that would give low-level, non-violent juvenile offenders a second chance to avoid the criminal justice system. The “Second Chance Program” will partner with Boys & Girls Clubs of Indianapolis. Instead of a nonviolent juvenile offender ending up in the criminal justice […]
Today, Arnold Ventures and the CUNY Institute for State and Local Governance (ISLG) announced the release of action research reports from the 10 jurisdictions selected to participate in the Reducing Revocations Challenge: Cook County, IL; Denver, CO; Harris County, TX; Monroe County; IN; Niagara County, NY; Pima County, AZ; Pulaski County, AK; Ramsey County, MN; Santa Cruz […]
We finally made it to 2021…and COVID-19 is still here. We all hoped it would feel more familiar—but not in the sense that we are getting used to stockpiling sanitizer and masks. Unfortunately, the concerns of 2020 have not fully dissipated, but the widespread availability of a vaccine gives us hope that our old normal […]
The State Budget Committee has approved spending $12 million for engineering and design work on a planned $400 million rebuild of a deteriorating state prison in northwest Indiana. The budget committee approved the funding Wednesday for the Indiana Department of Correction to begin architectural and engineering design work at the Westville Correctional Facility, The (Northwest Indiana) […]
Heroin started rewiring and taking control of Will’s brain in the early 2000s, as he turned 40. “Back then, if you used drugs people didn’t want anything to do with you,” Will recalls. “People gave up on me.” Will lost almost everything: jobs, his driver’s license, his car, his marriage and his home. He found […]
In the midst of a pandemic that has undoubtedly unleashed trauma and tragedy across our nation, we have seen our fellow citizens meet this tremendous challenge head-on — responding with courage, resilience and a particular type of ingenuity that is truly American. With the help of technology, we’ve rapidly changed our habits, and businesses have […]
As COVID-19 vaccinations continue, and cities and states move toward full reopening, many people are feeling reentry anxiety — an uneasiness about returning to the old normal of schools and offices, hugs and handshakes, and social gatherings large and small. The American Psychological Association reports that Americans are experiencing the highest levels of stress since […]
Safe, affordable, and permanent housing is widely recognized as one of the most crucial components of successful reentry. But finding permanent housing is often a challenge for people leaving prison or jail, particularly people with behavioral health needs who experience higher rates of homelessness compared to the general population and often cycle between shelters, jails, […]
The new policy directs assistant district attorneys to seek community supervision terms averaging 18 months, with a cap of three years, for people who have already been sentenced to prison for a felony Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner is focusing on a new set of priorities heading into his second year in office — ending […]
Criminal justice-involved populations are disproportionately affected by HIV. In the US, one in seven people living with HIV leaves a correctional facility each year. Marginalized populations are at increased risk of both HIV infection and incarceration, and this dual risk is amplified among communities of color. The 2021–2025 HIV National Strategic Plan—released in January 2021 […]
In a previous blog we outlined a brief history of virtual reality (VR) and its origins in the gaming and entertainment industries. In this blog we will describe several “real world” applications of VR including military, corporate, therapeutic, law enforcement, and institutional corrections settings. In the next blog we will explore specific ways that VR […]
Be sure to return intent to run forms by July 11, 2021 POPAI invites members to submit Intent to Run forms for open Board Positions. This year, the Board seeks: Vice-President Treasurer District One District Three District Five District Seven Details are in the Intent to Run Form 2021
Opinion: Supporters of the juvenile justice status quo wrongly claim that community-based organizations are not yet strong enough to serve all youth who may otherwise cycle through juvenile courts, detention centers and on and off parole rosters. Ideally, opponents to reform say, youth would be served by nonprofits close to home, but that cannot happen […]
The United States Probation Office for the District of Colorado is accepting applications for the position of Chief U.S. Probation Officer to succeed the incumbent who is retiring on December 31, 2021. This is a full-time permanent, highly visible executive position. The selected candidate will be expected to provide strong leadership to the hard-working Probation […]
Don’t miss out on $60,000 grant! In partnership with the Division of Mental Health and Addiction, IOCS is offering a $60,000 grant to every county for the opportunity to enhance collaborative partnerships between the local criminal justice system and behavioral health care providers to address Opioid Use Disorders/Substance Use Disorders. Applications for grant funds are […]
As part of our efforts to encourage healing and build trust within our respective communities, the U.S. Probation & Pretrial Services Office, for the Districts of Minnesota, Northern Ohio and Western Michigan joined to highlight how equity, diversity, and inclusion are engrained in our organizational cultures. Collectively and with the assistance of outstanding staff, we produced this […]
An effort to cultivate a culture of nonviolence and peace at South Side High School was outlined during Monday’s meeting of the Rotary Club of Fort Wayne – and got a vocal endorsement from Fort Wayne Community Schools’ superintendent. Peacemaker Academy, built on nonviolence training in the tradition of the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther […]
During the Management Institute we announced that POPAI would sponsor a Mentoring Program for selected CPO, ACPO, and Supervisor members to prepare future leaders for the Association and for the field of community supervision. The time to apply is now and the program will kick off just prior to the opening of the Fall Conference […]
APPA wants to know what gives you strength. What inspires you? What are your habits or routines that keep you grounded? How do you unwind after a long day with family or friends? What keeps you calm, cool and collected so you can make the most of the time you have? For #PPPSWeek, we want […]
For the first time, a medication regime has been found effective for some patients with meth addiction in a large, placebo-controlled trial. It’s welcome news for those working with the growing number of people struggling with meth addiction. “It’s progress and it’s quite significant,” says Dr. Nora Volkow, director of the National Institute on Drug […]
But too many companies still just ‘talking the talk,’ expert says New research from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), the SHRM Foundation and the Charles Koch Institute shows that a majority of HR professionals and business leaders are willing to hire and work with people with criminal records. People with criminal records—especially those […]
On Wednesday, June 9th the POPAI Executive Board met for a regularly scheduled meeting and selected a new District 3 Representative. The Board is pleased to announce that Megan Eakright, Problem Solving Court Coordinator for Wabash County, will serve as the Association’s District 3 Representative for the remainder of the term which expires in September 2021. […]
FRANKFORT, Ky. (WYMT) – Governor Andy Beshear, along with state Justice and Public Safety Cabinet Secretary Mary Noble, announced that in-person visitation will resume at state correctional facilities beginning on June 20. Visitation dates and times can now be scheduled for all facilities operated by the Department of Corrections and the Department of Juvenile Justice. […]
APPA wants to bring a little light to hard working community corrections staff nationwide. Pretrial, Probation, and Parole Supervision Week (#PPPSWeek) will return July 18-24, 2021 as we acknowledge our front-line workers who have put their lives on the line to keep communities safe. Thank you for everything you do, day in and day out. […]
Present your program at the 2021 POPAI Fall Conference September 8-10, 2021 at the French Lick Resort in French Lick, Indiana. We are seeking proposals for sessions/workshops that present best practices in service delivery, collaboration and justice programming that enhance outcomes for participants in the field of probation. Download this informative document and return the […]
Registration is open for APPA’s 46th Annual Training Institute in Boston. August 23 — 25, 2021 Venue:Sheraton Boston Hotel Website:coming soon! Schedule at a Glance Registration is open with early rates.
Issues of equality and acceptance of transgender and nonbinary people — along with challenges to their rights — have become a major topic in the headlines. These issues can involve words and ideas and identities that are new to some. That’s why we’ve put together a glossary of terms relating to gender identity. Our goal is to […]
JASPER – The Dubois County Community Foundation is granting $560,000 to Southwestern Indiana Child Advocacy Center Coalition for its new center in Jasper. The foundation says the grant will go towards a $1.1 million fundraising goal needed for renovations of the former Fifth Street Elementary School property. Greater Jasper Consolidated Schools donated the property, which […]
Any experienced juvenile court judge, case manager or probation officer can cite instances when the line between abuse and neglect (dependency cases) and juvenile delinquency cases becomes blurred. This population is frequently referred to as “crossover youth” or “dual status” to reflect their crossing from one system into the other creating dual system involvement. In […]
Indianapolis Public Schools is looking to add Hope Academy, Indiana’s only recovery high school, to its portfolio of charter school partners. Hope Academy has been serving substance-impacted students – those in various stages of addiction and recovery – for 16 years. Last summer, the school relocated to 3919 Madison Ave., on the city’s south side, […]
BARTHOLOMEW COUNTY, Ind. — Boxes filled with Narcan are being installed on buildings in Bartholomew County. The latest one is attached to a brick pillar outside the library. “We connect people with resources no matter what those are, whether that’s books or digital resources. This is just another resource they can utilize as they […]
INDIANAPOLIS — Some Marion County judges feel pressured to sentence people to electronic monitoring rather than jail or prison. They add this ideally gives a person a chance to work instead of sitting in a cell. However, unless a judge rules someone indigent, they must pay money every day to wear the monitors. For some […]
Lisa Thompson, Project Manager and Mary DePrez, Executive Director | Indiana Office of Court Technology
Deploying the Supervised Release System One of the largest undertakings of the Indiana Supreme Court is to implement a single case management system for use in every court in the state. Odyssey is replacing more than 23 different court case management systems. These systems did not share uniform standards, used outdated technology, and did not […]
Clad in a yellow tie and blue vest, the Miami County Probation Department’s newest employee doesn’t know how to read or write, how to tell time or even what day of the week it is. But what he can do is so much more than that. He can comfort a crying child, show support to […]
The only things in the world that are evil without bias are the things that plague – and the worst part about the plague of depression is that it’s entirely invisible. In Indiana alone, 36.6 percent of adults reported symptoms of a depressive disorder in October 2020 – nearly one out of every three adults, […]
When The POPAI Board elected Sarah Lochner as Vice President, the District 3 Representative position became vacant. District 3 is Carroll, Cass, Clinton, Elkhart, Fulton, Howard, Kosciusko, Marshall, Miami, St. Joseph, Tipton, and Wabash counties. The Board is now seeking Intent to Run forms from the Membership of District 3 to maintain the duties of […]
Starting this summer, Indiana children less than 18 years old will no longer be required to get a work permit. It’s one of a handful of changes to state child labor laws coming into effect this year as a result of legislation passed in 2020. Beginning July 1, the state will require employers hiring five or more teens to […]
The Wisconsin Chapter of the Association for the Treatment of Sexual Abusers is hosting an annual teleconference on June 10-11. The $99 registration fee includes CE’s and a two day conference exploring topics such as human trafficking, teens and sexual digital content, assessment of Child Sexual Exploitation Material abusers, and exploring sexual health, consent, and […]
The POPAI Board voted to hold the Fall Conference scheduled September 8-10 2021 in person. We’ll register through and use the Whova app but all programs will be on site in French Lick. More information plus a call for proposals coming soon.
This guide provides a framework for how to define and structure youth probation terms to reduce the harm inherent in probation supervision, leverage community partnerships, and build community capacity to wrap youth and their households with any supports, resources, and services needed to promote success. Probation-system improvements have gained momentum over the past several years […]
Donnie Ryan, County of San Diego Communications Office
A group of San Diego County probation officers helped to save a life last week during a routine home visit, administering two doses of the drug naloxone to a 38-year-old local man who was suffering from a suspected opioid overdose. Both opioid abuse and opioid-related drug overdoses have been steadily on the rise in the […]
ALBION — She admitted it — Stacey Beam was expecting the worse when called to the Noble County Circuit Courtroom Thursday afternoon. Instead, she was recognized as one of the best. Noble County’s chief probation officer, Beam was presented with the Order of Augustus, a statewide award given annually to the state’s top probation officer. […]
In May of each year, POPAI invites members to submit Intent to Run forms for open Board Positions. This year, the Board seeks: Vice-President Treasurer District One District Three District Five District Seven Details are in the Intent to Run Form 2021 Forms must be returned to Heather Malone by Sunday, July 11, 2021 (email […]
The main 2021 legislative session concluded near the end of April. However, the House and Senate will reconvene later in the year to deal with redistricting after they receive the necessary information from the 2020 federal census. POPAI worked hard to advocate for our membership and though we were not successful in every endeavor (SEA […]
When Jade was a sophomore in college, they were arrested and charged with a DUI. They hid their arrest from friends out of shame, and have tried to hide it from employers as well — so we’ve agreed to use just their middle name for this story. “The day that I had court, I was […]
As established by Judicial Conference of Indiana per I.C. 11-13-1-8, the 2022 Minimum Salary Schedule for Probation Officers has been posted on the Indiana Office of Court Services website. Contact Angie Hensley-Langrel with questions.
In 2015, a probationer filed a complaint in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Indiana against the Lake County Board of Commissioners, five Lake County Superior Court Criminal Division Judges, and two Lake County probation officers acting in their official capacities alleging violations of their constitutional rights. The Attorney General is […]
The American Probation and Parole Association (APPA) is proud to announce the results of their 2021 Election. Voting was completed virtually by APPA membership in the month of April, and turnout was fantastic! More than 650 voters took part in this year’s competition, representing 35% of all eligible voters. Indiana will be well-represented on APPA’s […]
On Thursday, May 6th the POPAI Executive Board met to select a new Vice President of the Association. The Board is pleased to announce that Sarah Lochner, Chief Probation Officer for Wabash County, will serve as the Association’s Vice President for the remainder of the term which expires in September 2021. Congratulations, Sarah!
INDIANAPOLIS — George Lewis was drinking a lot of gin. He was trying to numb the pain, to kill the dark thoughts. Friends and family were distancing themselves. He couldn’t keep a job. He was on the verge of homelessness. Lewis, 59, was out of control, raging. He didn’t know at the time that he […]
FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) – Children staying at the Allen County Juvenile Center (ACJC) are learning something new from an area teacher: how to knit. The center said it initially started as dedicated weekly enrichment time for students to engage in non-academic learning experiences. Sandy Eager, a teacher in the detention center, began teaching the […]
Mark A. Sanders, LCSW, CADC; Illinois State Program Manager, Great Lakes ATTC, MHTTC, and PTTC
Humor can be utilized in substance use disorder counseling to help reduce client resistance, increase rapport between counselor and client, and help facilitate recovery. Some of the therapeutic benefits of humor in substance use disorders counseling include: Laughter as the great equalizer. Maya Angelou told Oprah Winfrey that only equals laugh with each other. Many […]
More medical practitioners are being allowed to prescribe buprenorphine under new guidelines from the Biden administration. The change means that the drug shown to reduce opioid relapses and overdose deaths can be more widely prescribed. It comes after a year of overdose deaths spiking across the United States. Early estimates indicate about 90,000 people died […]
Adam McQueen, Assistant Chief Probation Officer of Wayne County and the President of the Probation Officers Professional Association of Indiana (POPAI), announced to the Executive Board his resignation as President of POPAI. Vice President Troy Hatfield assumed the role as President on April 14, 2021. The Board accepted applications to fill the Vice President vacancy […]
Every year POPAI provides a scholarship in memory of probation officer Donald “Charley” Knepple. Charley lost his life on April 28, 1997, while performing his probation officer duties in Allen County, Indiana. In an effort to honor an outstanding professional and to promote further professionalism, POPAI selected a scholarship that would encourage continued education and […]
I’ll be moderating the POPAI group on LinkedIn so Corporate and Individual members who use that platform can start networking there. Visit http://bit.ly/POPAIonLinkedIn and send a request to join. Contact me for any questions at ContactUsatPOPAI@gmail.com I’m looking forward to seeing you there!
Dear Corrections Colleagues: The National Institute of Corrections and the field of corrections lost a true justice warrior with the passing of our esteemed colleague, Lori Eville. She passed away on March 10, 2021 after a short fight with cancer. Lori had a long career of public service, culminating with her time at the NIC Community […]
Probation Officer Donald Knepple was shot and killed on April 28, 1997 after being ambushed by a man at a counseling center on South Calhoun Street in Fort Wayne. The suspect, a former juvenile corrections officer who had been convicted of attempted child molestation, had arranged a meeting with his counselor and Probation Officer Knepple […]
David Kuhnz, Staff Attorney | Office of Communication, Education & Outreach
With a national spotlight on the importance of equity and inclusion, the legal community is among those entities taking a hard look at its own practices. The Indiana State Bar Association has been moved to effectuate change, inspire action, and take decisive steps to communicate and listen to the experiences of others. One such call […]
Carmen Maria Rodriguez March 5, 1963 – April 19, 2021 APPA distributed Carmen’s Obituary and additional thoughts in an email to it’s membership: Dear Colleagues, It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of our friend and longtime Board Member, Carmen Maria Rodriguez (Melendez). After a heroic battle with cancer, Carmen passed away […]
The past year has provided a number of unprecedented challenges for the judiciary, which has allowed the court system to demonstrate its adaptability and innovation to keep the wheels of justice moving. With the advent of video-conference hearings and court proceedings being livestreamed, parties and witnesses may participate in proceedings from a remote location, which […]
Indianapolis is encouraging community organizations to submit applications for $1 million available for projects that promote the recovery of communities hit hardest by the coronavirus pandemic and its economic impact. The funding, provided in partnership with Resolve to Save Lives, is part of the city’s efforts to curb the impact of the pandemic in areas […]
The Council of State Governments (CSG) Justice Center released a brief to highlight how probation and parole officers can prioritize safe, affordable, and permanent housing support for people with behavioral health needs. You can read the full report by downloading this pdf. The Center Statistics Project (CSP) of the National Center for State Courts released […]
On April 14, 2021, Adam McQueen, Assistant Chief Probation Officer of Wayne County and the President of the Probation Officers Professional Association of Indiana (POPAI), announced to the Executive Board that he is resigning as President of POPAI, effective April 14, 2021. Adam served as POPAI’s President for the last four years. The POPAI By-laws […]
Join the Columbia Justice Lab and Executives Transforming Probation and Parole (EXiT) on April 14 from 2:30-4:00 p.m. EDT for a webinar about how changes to probation and parole during the COVID-19 pandemic can transform into long-term reform. “Bridging Disparities in Probation and Parole by Ensuring Food and Health Access” is the second of two […]
Indiana will receive about $60.8 million in federal funds aimed at expanding vaccination equity, according to a news release from the Centers for Disease Control. The funds will be used with an eye to encouraging vaccination and ensuring equity and access to vaccines for communities that COVID-19 has disproportionately impacted. The money will help programs […]
INDIANAPOLIS — A new study from the Center for Health and Justice Research at the IU Public Policy Institute found that changes made in 2020 due to COVID-19 reduced jail populations across Indiana may have long-term impacts on jail operations. CHJR researchers examined jail populations in 19 Indiana counties—La Porte, St. Joseph, Starke, Pulaski, Whitley, […]
According to a database of laws compiled by the American Bar Association’s Criminal Justice Section, “collateral consequences” all too often regulate the lives of people with criminal records, dictating where they work, where and with whom they live, and how they spend their time. As a result, after they have served their sentences, and long […]
Virtual courtroom The Technology Working Group envisioned enabling remote appearance by video during the first meeting on November 4, 2019. Judge Bacon offered to pilot a virtual courtroom—quite a novel concept in the pre-pandemic era. Lawrence Township has several meeting rooms, stemming off of the courtroom, where opposing parties can discuss a settlement of their […]
Lawrenceburg, Ind. – Steve Bradley is being recognized for his many years of contribution to the Lawrenceburg High School boys basketball program. The Indiana Basketball Coaches Association announced Monday that four Indiana high school basketball coaches will receive Point Guard College Transformational Coach Awards. Coach Bradley was nominated for the award by current Lawrenceburg varsity […]
Anyone age 16 and older may now schedule a COVID-19 vaccination appointment. Click here to register or call 211 (866-211-9966) if you do not have access to a computer or need assistance. When you enter a ZIP code to search for a vaccination site, you will find several vaccination locations near you. The site’s information will include […]
Natalie J. Wilkins, Heather Clayton, Christopher M. Jones and Melissa Brown
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: In previous studies, researchers have reported that youth with a lifetime history of prescription opioid misuse (POM) are at an increased risk for suicidal ideation, planning, and attempts. In this study, we investigate whether the association between youth POM and suicide outcomes differs by recency of POM (ie, none, past, or current […]
Heavy caseloads, job stress and biases can strain relations between parole and probation officers and their clients, upping offenders’ likelihood of landing back behind bars. On a more hopeful note, a new study from the University of California, Berkeley, suggests that nonjudgmental empathy training helps court-ordered supervision officers feel more emotionally connected to their clients […]
For people serving time in jail or prison, it may seem like punishment ends on the day of release. But in fact, thousands of restrictions dictate the terms of life after incarceration, too. University of Chicago professor Reuben Jonathan Miller estimates that there are 45,000 “laws, policies and administrative sanctions” in the U.S. that target […]
Do you want to see what some of the latest data and promising practices are revealing about staff wellness for corrections officers and staff? Would you like to learn how to apply a holistic approach to your workplace along the continuum of preventive to reactive responses? Correctional staff face significant stress and challenges in maintaining […]
A new study found that changes made by jails in Indiana and around the country in the early days of coronavirus outbreak had an impact on inmates and staff. The study from the Center for Health and Justice Research at the IU Public Policy Institute also found that changes made in 2020 because of coronavirus […]
Submit your application to be considered for the 2021 Donald “Charley” Knepple Scholarship Award on or before 12:00 noon EST on Monday, March 29, 2021. The winner will be announced at the 2021 Annual Indiana Probation Officers Conference in April. The qualified candidate chosen for the Scholarship Award will receive $2,500.00 to help pay for […]
Richie Webber, the director of Fight for Recovery, says he saw people struggling to stay sober when everything shut down during COVID. TOLEDO, Ohio — An online addiction recovery meeting series is paving the way for a successful road to living drug-free. It started as an idea about a year ago and has reached thousands […]
After 43 years as a distinguished Tippecanoe probation officer, Joe Hooker will retire later this month. Hooker, who began his career as a probation officer on Jan. 3, 1978, will retire March 31. Among his accomplishments, Hooker worked with David Kuebler in 1988 to establish the Tippecanoe County Community Corrections Program and served three terms […]
BLOOMINGTON – A nonprofit entrepreneurship center in Bloomington has launched a program designed to support formerly incarcerated individuals as they develop their business ideas. The Mill says ReBoot was inspired by the Indy Chamber’s ReEntry Entrepreneurship Development Initiative and takes participants through a six-week process of business development that culminates with a demo night pitch […]
INDIANAPOLIS – School fights. Being extremely disruptive in class. Disorderly conduct. These are all things that land Indiana students in trouble. They can face several forms of discipline like suspension or expulsion. But some experts are raising concerns about the number of students getting arrested on school property. The Indiana Department of Education recorded more […]
A cybersecurity report found that 25% of state and local government employees use personal digital devices to telework while only 9% of federal employees do so. Nearly a quarter of state and local government employees use personal phones and tablets for work, putting them at higher risk for phishing attacks and other cyber intrusions, according […]
COMMENTARY | The diverging economic fortunes of different parts of the country in the period after the 2008-2009 recession is linked to differing death rates from heart disease and stroke among middle-aged Americans, researchers report. As the federal government debates the financial stimulus needed to address the economic fallout from the coronavirus pandemic, the last […]
COMMENTARY | Probabilistic genotyping software has helped forensic labs close more cases and exonerate individuals wrongly accused of a crime. The development and implementation of forensic DNA typing more than 30 years ago has been a boon to law enforcement, the judicial system and society. The unprecedented expansion of biological evidence that now can be […]
Dejuna Rodriguez was 14 when she first became homeless. She didn’t say much about what led to it, just that a lot of things happened in her childhood that she didn’t understand. That, looking back, her mom — who could at times be abusive — didn’t always have the tools to parent her and her […]
At least 20 states haven’t included homeless shelters in vaccine plans. Frank Galloway falls into the most vulnerable categories for COVID-19: He is 87, he is Black, and he is experiencing homelessness. “It ain’t no joke,” Galloway said of the coronavirus, which has killed some of his friends in Greensboro, North Carolina. “I don’t mind […]
The Management Institute is just around the corner. Updated 3/16/2021: the agenda and registration links have been removed from public view. You can prepare for the conference by watching the Whova step by step set up instruction video or contact Karen by ContactUsatPOPAI@gmail.com for individual assistance.
APPA is offering two free webinars. Officer Safety, Wellness, and Leadership in the 21st Century: Tools, Strategies, and Solutions When: Thursday, March 11, 2021 · 10:00:00 AM · Eastern Time (US & Canada) Duration: 1 hour https://www.bigmarker.com/appa-webinars/Officer-Safety-Wellness-and-Leadership-in-the-21st-Century-Tools-Strategies-and-Solutions Lessons Learned – Using Mobile Technology During a Global Pandemic When: Tuesday, March 16, 2021 · 03:00:00 PM […]
Harrison County Prosecutor Otto Schalk signed up for probation in an attempt to expose the breakdowns plaguing the criminal justice system in his community. HARRISON COUNTY, Ind. — The Indiana Constitution mandates that the criminal justice system is built upon reformation, including opportunities for defendants to chose a better path forward. But, are the penalties […]
A juvenile justice bill that addresses expunging records, detaining young offenders and competency passed out of the state Senate Tuesday, and heads to the House for consideration. The bill, authored by Sen. Karen Tallian, D-Ogeden Dunes, allows for automatic expungement of juvenile records, unless the child commits a felony, and a court has discretion in […]
Mar 5, 2021 CONNERSVILLE — An eastern Indiana man who became lost after entering a storm drain to avoid his probation officer was rescued early Friday after spending at least three days in the chilly drainage system, police said a Connersville police officer heard the 35-year-old man crying for help about 2 a.m. Friday and followed […]
EXit is sponsoring a free webinar: From Pandemic Reforms to Systematic Change: How COVID-19 Housing and Financial Supports Can Permanently Alter Probation and Parole One year ago, as the COVID-19 outbreak hit our nation, many probation and parole officials throughout the country sought to limit the impact of the coronavirus. The pandemic spawned several emergency […]
The Urban Institute recently released an assessment of the outcomes from changes made to the Supervision Revocation Policy in 2011. The report examines outcomes for individuals on probation, post-release supervision, and parole supervision before and after the changes were implemented. In 2010, North Carolina’s prison population was projected to increase 10 percent by 2020 after increasing by 30 […]
Indiana Department of Correction Commissioner Robert Carter has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff at all IDOC facilities in honor of Lieutenant Eugene Lasco, who lost his life after a stabbing incident at Indiana State Prison. Governor Eric J. Holcomb will direct flags to be flown at half-staff in LaPorte County on the day […]
The Center for Effective Public Policy along with the Center for Court Innovation have summarized the promising key research findings on Court Notification Systems and their impact on appearance rates. The report can be found here.
Submit your application to be considered for the 2021 Donald “Charley” Knepple Scholarship Award. The winner will be announced at the 2021 Annual Indiana Probation Officers Conference in April. The qualified candidate chosen for the Scholarship Award will receive $2,500.00 to help pay for their costs in continuing his or her education pursuing a Masters […]
On February 24, 2020, the Court of Appeals of Georgia decided Montgomery v. State, which serves as an excellent review regarding the law related to consent searches of residences. The relevant facts of Montgomery, taken directly from the case, are as follows: [T]he evidence shows that Montgomery has multiple prior felony drug convictions, including sale […]
Scenario: An Officer pulls over a vehicle for traveling 65 in a 55 mile per hour zone. The officer suspects the driver is impaired and administers field sobriety tests and a PBT, which results in a reading of .00. The officer then tells the driver that the next roadside test is an oral fluid test […]
Article 1 of the Indiana Constitution proclaims that “all courts shall be open,” that “in all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall have the right to a public trial” and that victims of crime have the right to be “present during public hearings.” How does a court accommodate the rights bestowed by our Constitution during a […]
INDIANAPOLIS — Mayor Joe Hogsett’s office has finally released a report it has had since last May on how to reduce violence in Indianapolis. In late 2019 and early 2020, the National Institute for Criminal Justice Reform visited Indianapolis and spoke with government and law enforcement leaders and community stakeholders to create the “Indianapolis Violence […]
Aaron Burch, Communications Specialist at American Probation and Parole Association (APPA)
NADCP’s National Drug Court Institute (NDCI) has partnered with APPA to launch a ‘probation communities of practice’ project. This project is for adult drug treatment courts that wish to lead the field in applying the skills of core correctional practices and integrated case management to improve operations and enhance positive outcomes for clients. Three programs […]
Compiled by the Office of Communication, Education & Outreach
On June 5, 2020, Chief Justice Rush released the statement on race and equity, charging the judiciary to take action in providing equitable justice to our communities. The statement implores judicial officers to acknowledge and confront the reality that justice remains elusive for many persons of color. Chief Justice Rush emphasized five points that judicial officers […]
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Indiana’s attorney general says the state will receive more than $12.5 million as part of a multistate settlement with a consulting firm that worked with opioid manufacturers to promote addictive painkillers. Attorney General Todd Rokita said Thursday that Indiana’s share of McKinsey & Company’s $573 million settlement with 47 states, the District […]
The panel addressed how trauma is often a pathway to criminalized behavior, and the real consequences of the prison environment on human biology, which results in lasting impacts on offenders. Highlighting the fact that Black, Indigenous, and People of Color are more at risk for experiencing multiple traumas in their lives, and have significantly higher […]
The 2021 POPAI Management Institute will be entirely virtual this year in the interest of Public Health and Safety. While we are disappointed that we will not be able to be together in person we are excited to bring you two full days of training. Chief Probation Officer and Supervisor Orientation – March 17th Management […]
North Carolina is the latest state to offer incentives—commissary credits, bonus visits and early release—to motivate inmates to receive vaccination shots. Most inmates in North Carolina’s state prisons will be eligible for a sentence reduction that would shave five days off their remaining time if they opt to receive the Covid-19 vaccine, officials said Friday. […]
State and local officials weigh in on what they’re taking from—and leaving behind in—the dumpster fire that was last year. The first month of a new year is typically a time of reflection and recalibration—a chance to consider what went well in the past 12 months and what could go better in the next. That […]
Two-thirds of employees report that poor mental health has undercut their job performance during the COVID-19 pandemic, and 40% of employees are battling burnout, according to a survey by mental health benefits provider Lyra Health and the National Alliance of Healthcare Purchaser Coalitions. Employees may be working relentlessly amid economic uncertainty with few social outlets, […]
EVANSVILLE, Ind. — It’s the classic dilemma of law and code enforcement: Large groups of people can violate Indiana’s COVID-19 safety mandates anywhere in the state, in any rockin’ joint big enough to hold them, any time it’s open. Enforcers have to be everywhere all the time. For those charged with enforcing the mandates, it’s […]
FORT WAYNE, Ind. – Allen Superior Court Judge Charles F. Pratt, whose career in the judiciary focused on the betterment of families and children, will retire from the bench effective May 1, 2021. Over the past two weeks, Judge Pratt informed Indiana Supreme Court Chief Justice Loretta Rush and Governor Eric Holcomb of his intent […]
DEBUT NOVEL: “THE RANKINS OF PRATT COUNTY” AUTHOR : ROBERT L. BINGHAM FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: JANUARY 29, 2021 A coming-of-age story, “The Rankins of Pratt County,” tells the story of an Illinois teenager attempting to survive a severely dysfunctional family in the early 1980s. In the midst of the struggle, a faulty decision lands 15 ½ […]
Legitimacy is the currency of policing and democracy. There will never be enough police to be on every corner, but most Americans believe our government is legitimate and our laws are at least mostly just, and hence they follow them even when no one is looking. Most are also inclined to report crime and cooperate […]
The Judicial Conference of Indiana’s Strategic Planning Committee continues to set a vision for the future of Indiana’s justice system. Since the committee’s inception in 2008, it has continued its efforts through education, implementation, and additional planning to carry out its overall mission, “[t]o improve our system of justice under the rule of law while protecting individual […]
Employers also potentially face legal liability under Indiana’s Worker’s Compensation laws, as it is possible that COVID-19 could be compensable as an occupational disease. If an employee can show a causal connection between their workplace and COVID-19 infection and exposure, then the employer may face liability. If an employee were to sue for either wrongful […]
State lawmakers on Wednesday passed a sweeping overhaul of the state’s criminal justice system that would end cash bail and eventually require every police officer in the state to be equipped with a body camera. The measures, approved by narrow margins in the final hours of the Illinois General Assembly’s lame-duck session, were spurred on […]
From minor challenges to major crises, stress is part of life. And while you can’t always control your circumstances, you can control how you respond to them. When stress becomes overwhelming, or it’s chronic, it can take a toll on your well-being. That’s why it’s important to have effective stress relievers that can calm your mind and […]
The coronavirus pandemic has had devastating mental health effects on Americans, and drug abuse is hitting record levels. New data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed that over 81,000 drug overdose deaths occurred in the U.S. in the 12-month period ending in May 2020. That’s the highest number ever recorded by […]
Jackie Ré, who runs a substance-use disorder facility in New Jersey, gathered the 12 female residents of her center in the living room on March 27 and told them that the coronavirus outbreak had forced the center to limit contact with the outside world. There was an immediate outcry: The women already felt disconnected and […]
The Integrated Justice Information Systems (IJIS) Institute
The Corrections Tech 2020 white paper (link downloads a pdf document), developed by the Corrections Advisory Committee, is a survey of technological trends, current and potential, which are likely to impact the corrections environment in the next 3-5 years. The aim is to provide a ‘one-stop’ high-level overview for the leadership of correctional agencies and […]
Casey Cawthon, 32, of Fishers was doing OK when she started working from home in March due to the pandemic. She was productive, enjoyed the flexibility of working from home, developed a routine and was spending more time with her 15-year-old son, Caiden. “It just felt like working from home for the day or like working from a client […]
The POPAI Virtual Management Institute will be in March 2021: New Chief Probation Officer Orientation Wednesday March 17 Management Institute Thursday March 18 CPO Summit Friday March March 19 We have a platform to make signup and participation easy and are contacting speakers. More information coming soon!
The federal stimulus bill signed by President Donald Trump includes additional funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) that will provide a temporary boost for families struggling with food insecurity. Beginning Jan. 1 and running through the end of June, those receiving SNAP benefits will see an increase of 15% in the maximum amount […]
New federal data shows the coronavirus pandemic has contributed to the country’s deadliest 12-month period for drug overdose fatalities, including a sharp increase in overdose deaths in the Ohio Valley. According to the latest data by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 81,000 people died due to drug overdoses in the 12 months from […]
A written report on the Indiana State of the Judiciary will be made available prior to the close of the legislative session at courts.in.gov. Chief Justice Loretta Rush said, “I will provide a formal update on the work of the judicial branch through a written report and a remote message. Even in these challenging times there […]
Gun Violence Surged in 2020 The teenagers who attend VOICES in Fountain Square don’t need to read the headlines about Indianapolis’ latest homicide. Many of them live those stories, whether it’s losing a friend to violence or living in a neighborhood riddled with it. In the most devastating scenario, they become the statistic. “I’m always holding my […]
On October 28, 2019, President Donald Trump signed Executive Order No. 13896, which directed the department of Justice to establish the “Commission on Law Enforcement and the Administration of Justice.” The purpose of the Commission is to conduct a modern study of the state of American policing and determine specific measures to reduce crime and […]
An expert in human trafficking intervention said the numbers reported nationally may not accurately represent the current situation. LOUISVILLE, Ky. — (If you or someone you know is a victim of human trafficking, call 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733 to get help) January is Human Trafficking Awareness month, so we wanted to look at the state […]
EVANSVILLE, Ind. — It’s been nine years since Bridgett Tate’s son, Derrick Brian Jackson, was murdered six blocks from their home. She still calls the Evansville Police Department every week seeking answers in the unsolved homicide. “If I didn’t stay on it, he would just be forgotten,” Tate said. “And that’s not – that was […]
The following is a brief summary of the bills POPAI is tracking for our membership. If you have any questions or concerns about pending legislation, please contact a member of the POPAI Board. For the current status and full text of each bill please go to: http://iga.in.gov/legislative/2021/bills/. This page was last updated on 1-7-2021 at […]
Every day, thousands of young people in the United States are held in juvenile detention facilities while their cases are handled in court. Despite steady declines over the past two decades, more than 15,000 young people were held in detention centers on any given night in 2017, the latest year for which federal data are […]
In July 2020, Dr. Edward Latessa retired from the School of Criminal Justice at the University of Cincinnati. Although he remains the Director of the University of Cincinnati Corrections Institute (UCCI), we wanted to take a moment to highlight some of his many achievements. The following was written by one of our Research Fellows who […]
Wide variations in policies and term lengths across states point to opportunities for reform More than 3.5 million, or 1 in 72, adults were on probation in the United States at the end of 2018—the most recent year for which U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) data is available—more than triple the number in 1980.1 Nationwide, […]
The government eased access to drug addiction treatment during the pandemic. Now that could go away. When the Covid-19 pandemic forced much of the US to lock down in the spring of 2020, officials and experts worried the necessary social distancing measures would make another public health crisis — the opioid epidemic — worse. Addiction […]
The compromise also includes language to simplify the application for federal financial aid and grant more than $1 billion in loan forgiveness for HBCUs. Congressional leaders have struck a deal to reinstate Pell grants for incarcerated students more than a quarter century after banning the aid for prison education programs, top Democrats and Republicans announced […]
APPA’s 5th COVID Roundtable was recorded on Dec 15, 2020. It featured an array of researchers discussing the effects of the pandemic on agency staff and clients and identifying the lingering issues that agencies will face as we enter 2021. We’re diving deep with national and state survey data to provide a portrait of community […]
Death can attract a crowd. That’s been proven several times since the Trump administration relaunched federal executions over the summer. Crowds of people have gathered in or near the U.S. Penitentiary in Terre Haute to either witness the deaths, protest them or help carry them out. Since July, eight people have been put to death about […]
EVANSVILLE, Ind. — As the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic rolls across Indiana and the nation just in time for the holiday season, experts say it’s important to pay attention to mental health as well as the physical. “We are seeing a lot of people coming in for help,” said Janie Chappell, a nurse and Senior […]
The Indiana Supreme Court handed down an Order Suspending Jury Trials statewide until March 1, 2021, citing the need for drastic measures as COVID-19 continues to surge. In-person jury trials pose an exceptional risk to everyone involved—even if every precaution is taken. “We have hope that 2021 will bring improved conditions. But hoping is not enough. There […]
I’ve created a new page for paying group renewals: https://gopopai.org/group-membership-payments/ You can add a membership type, enter the names of your members of that type, then add it on to a cart-type page where you can change the numbers. Does your staff include both Officers and Associates? No problem: just add one then use the […]
Graphs about Adult Admission Trend: Old vs New Felony Levels, Facility Population: New Felony Levels, Distribution of New Felony Levels by Most Serious Offense, January 2018-YTD Admission and Release Totals, and Facility Capacity by Security Level are in the December 2020 Indiana Department of Correction HEA 1006: Supplemental Report Find the more detailed Indiana Department […]
FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) – Used needles, spoons with drug reside and a bag from a drug transaction were all scattered in the parking lot of a hotel located on the northwest side of Fort Wayne. Despite it’s small size, detectives told WANE 15’s Briana Brownlee that they receive the highest amount of drug abuse […]
FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) — November is National Adoption Month, and while the Indiana Department of Child Services is reporting a drop in total yearly adoptions for the first time in at least 8 years, officials believe this is just a bump in the road for kids still in our foster system. The Indiana D.C.S […]
James Austin, Ph.D., JFA Institute; Sarah L. Desmarais, Ph.D., North Carolina State University; John Monahan, Ph.D., University of Virginia School of Law
Re: Response to PJI’s Position on the Abolition of Pretrial Risk Assessment Instruments Recently the Pretrial Justice Institute (PJI) re-issued its former statement that argues that all pretrial risk assessment instruments (PRAIs) be abolished. Their rationale is understandable but fails to account for the state of the scientific evidence on PRAIs. Abolishing PRAIs and allowing […]
POPAI’s Membership year runs from January to December. Anyone who did not already pay for 2021 may do so now by noting “paying for 2021” on the application. Otherwise I will assume the payment is for the year in which it is received. Department/Group Invoices are ready by request. Just email me: ContactUsatPOPAI@gmail.com. I’ll be […]
Efforts including isolation upon intake and limiting arrests are keeping COVID-19 from returning to the Porter County Jail and the Juvenile Detention Center even as the number of cases continues to rise in the community, officials for both facilities said. The jail reported its first cases of the virus in the spring after a cook […]
Indianapolis, Ind. – The Indiana Department of Correction (IDOC) today announced it will make the opioid reversal agent naloxone available to each offender upon release from an IDOC facility. “Expanding the availability of naloxone to all offenders upon release from one of our correctional facilities is one way we can ensure these individuals a smooth […]
Even with at least three in-person jury trials under his belt since coronavirus-related suspensions were lifted in July, Lake Superior Civil Division Judge Bruce Parent still feels uncomfortable. The Indiana Supreme Court permitted the first in-person jury trial to take place during the COVID-19 pandemic in Parent’s Lake County courtroom last month. Indiana trial courts […]
Howard County Superior Court II Judge Brant Parry stood in his courtroom last week and looked around like he had lost something. “You want to see her?” he asked, still looking around the mostly empty room. A few moments later, a brown fluff of fur came bounding through an open back door, prompting instant smiles […]
A 34-year-old Riverside County probation officer died from complications from COVID-19 on Saturday, Nov. 14, the department said. Deputy Probation Officer Julio Beltran, a seven-year veteran of the department, is survived by his wife, a son and his parents, the department said. “We are devastated and heartbroken,” Riverside County Chief Probation Officer Ron Miller II […]
POPAI Members are welcome to attend this week’s Board Meeting via Zoom. Contact your District Representative or email Karen at ContactUsatPOPAI@gmail.com for the link. Meeting minutes are available on our minutes page.
The theme of this edition of Perspectives, “Transforming Probation”, is near and dear to my heart. From the time I began my career in the field of juvenile probation, I’ve always believed that I was an agent of change. Tim Hardy, APPA President
Over 140 current & former prosecutors, probation & parole chiefs agree: it’s time to transform Mass Supervision into a system that’s downsized, less punitive, & equitable. Read Columbia University Justice Lab’s Executives Transforming Probation and Parole statement: https://bit.ly/ExitStatement
(INDIANAPOLIS) – Gov. Eric J. Holcomb announced his three appointments to the Marion County Superior Courts for the upcoming retirements of Judges Barbara Crawford Cook, David Dreyer and Marilyn Moores. Marshelle Dawkins Broadwell currently serves as a magistrate judge in the Marion Superior Court, where she hears criminal, civil and family law matters. Before beginning […]
INDIANAPOLIS – For people struggling with homelessness, addiction, and poverty, finding meaningful work can be a huge barrier to getting their lives in order and back on a productive track, especially for those just released from prison. But Indianapolis-based Purposeful Design has made it a mission to help by giving them training, skills, and a […]
The Judicial Conference Board of Directors approved amendments to the Probation Standards effective January 1, 2021. The amendments add language related to Indiana’s Program Improvement Plan for child and family services. Contact Jenny Bauer with questions.
US Probation and Pretrial Services District of Minnesota
Kito Bess
To All Criminal Justice Students, Legal and Community Correction Practitioners: Are you looking to start or elevate your career with the U.S. District Court, U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services Office? Interested in learning more about what we do; how we positively impact the lives of others; and what it takes to become a U.S. Probation […]
As an affiliate member of the American Probation and Parole Association (APPA), POPAI is excited to announce that we are sponsoring some of our members to attend APPA’s Virtual Training Institute for FREE!!! The total number of POPAI members we’ll sponsor depends on the number of entries we receive. APPA’s 2021 Winter Training Institute will […]
(INDIANAPOLIS) — The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration’s Division of Mental Health and Addiction today announced a series of pilot programs designed to increase access to mental health care for inmates in Indiana county jails. The pilot programs will focus on individuals found incompetent to stand trial who are awaiting placement in the state […]
As case numbers continue rising in Indiana and are causing more impact within court systems, the Supreme Court issued an order on November 10 with instructions for judges on safely operating their courts. IOCS has prepared a memo with guidance and procedures to help implement that order. Continue to check the COVID-19 website. Contact Jeff […]
The Indiana Department of Correction (IDOC) today announced it will make the opioid reversal agent naloxone available to each offender upon release from an IDOC facility. “Expanding the availability of naloxone to all offenders upon release from one of our correctional facilities is one way we can ensure these individuals a smooth transition back into […]
Across the country, a rapidly increasing number of states, counties and cities have undertaken ambitious efforts to improve the way decisions are made about who is released and who is detained before trial. Their sense of urgency is driven by the fact that our nation’s jails are filled with people charged with low-level offenses who […]
Americans were still waiting for clarity on the presidential race Wednesday morning. Perhaps lost in the frantic haze of election night was the legalization of recreational marijuana in four states. Arizona, New Jersey, South Dakota and Montana all passed legislation Tuesday permitting the possession of weed by adults, which means 15 states have legalized recreational […]
In states across the country, voters sent a clear message they wanted restrictions on recreational drug use eased. On Tuesday, residents of Arizona, Montana, New Jersey and South Dakota voted to join the ranks of 11 other states that have done so. In 2012, Colorado and Washington made the leap to legalize marijuana for recreational […]
From Executives Transforming Probation and Parole (EXiT): California’s Probation and Parole Reform Successes California Reform Webinar: California has passed legislation that addresses several of EXiT’s policy aims, including shortening supervision terms (both at sentencing and via earned time credits), and eliminating supervision fees. This public-facing webinar will highlight those legislative efforts, discuss why such reforms […]
INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Department of Child Services said Thursday that contracted employees may have falsified drug-screening records. Drug screenings are used for many types of court cases involving DCS, including juvenile matters, Child in Need of Services (CHINS), and termination of parental rights. It’s not yet clear how many cases may be impacted or […]
Criminal Justice Network @intcjnetwork shared a podcast with Michael Nail, commissioner @GeorgiaDCS about the challenge of leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. This podcast is the fourth of a series about the challenge posed to leaders by the COVID-19 crisis. The people working in the criminal justice system at the frontline across the world are facing […]
The maker of OxyContin painkillers has reached an $8.3bn (£6.3bn) settlement and agreed to plead guilty to criminal charges to resolve a probe of its role in fuelling America’s opioid crisis. Purdue Pharma will admit to enabling the supply of drugs “without legitimate medical purpose”. The deal with US Department of Justice resolves some of […]
The Michigan Poison Center at the Wayne State University School of Medicine wants the public to be aware of recent reports involving “purple heroin” identified in Michigan. “Purple heroin” has been linked to several overdose cases in the Upper Peninsula and one overdose-related death in Van Buren County. Samples sent to the Michigan State Police […]
In 2014, Abt Associates began work on a grant from the National Institute of Justice to evaluate the effectiveness of home and field contacts in community supervision. The study was designed to describe the varying practices of home and other field contacts in community supervision, to document their use nationwide, and to evaluate their effectiveness […]
FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) — A high number of overdoses in Fort Wayne are now being blamed on a counterfeit drug. Residents believe they’re taking oxycodone but it’s actually fentanyl. 15 Finds Out went looking into where the drugs came from. Police told WANE 15 that overdoses more than doubled in September compared to the […]
The 2021 Court Reform grants application period is now open. Applications are open to be submitted by judges from any courts in Indiana due no later than November 27, 2020. For 2021, courts are able to request grant funds from these categories: Improving Court Safety and Security Courts may request grant funds for projects related to […]
On Wednesday, October 14th, the POPAI Executive Board voted to appoint Anthony Williams as our new conference planner! Anthony is the Alcohol and Drug Services Director for the Marion County Superior Court Probation Department and is a current member of POPAI. Anthony has been a probation officer for over 17 years. He serves as the […]
About this study: The purpose of this study is to examine how community corrections agencies altered policies and procedures during the COVID-19 pandemic. We are now recruiting community supervision officers to participate in interviews to learn about how working during the pandemic has impacted them. What does participation involve? You will be asked to participate […]
On Wednesday, October 14th, the POPAI Executive Board voted to appoint Karen Oeding as our new membership coordinator! Some of you have met or seen Karen at our annual Fall Conference and all of you have seen a product of her work. Karen is our current webmaster who works tirelessly to make sure our membership […]
In 2014, Abt Associates began work on a grant from the National Institute of Justice to evaluate the effectiveness of home and field contacts in community supervision. The study was designed to describe the varying practices of home and other field contacts in community supervision, to document their use nationwide, and to evaluate their effectiveness […]
For several days in a row, Sgt. Lance Dardeen’s squad car was the only transportation an Indianapolis man was comfortable riding in. The two went to the grocery store, doctor’s appointments and errands around Central Indiana, making small talk, side by side in the front. Dardeen said the man, who he said suffered from schizophrenia, […]
President Trump has signed into law a bipartisan bill to create a three-digit number for mental health emergencies. The Federal Communications Commission had already picked 988 as the number for this hotline and aims to have it up and running by July 2022. The new law paves the way to make that a reality. “We […]
We have spent a lot of time in this series discussing the myths and misconceptions commonly held about alcoholism and addiction. But we have not spent time talking about the myths – or lies – that the alcoholic and addict tell themselves. Curious, I asked numerous recovered alcoholics and addicts for insight, and their responses […]
You are cordially invited to attend the Executives Transforming Probation and Parole Virtual Membership Meeting Please save the date for the next EXiT Virtual Membership meeting, which will be held Tuesday, December 8, 2020 1:00pm-4:00pm, ET. It will be a half day filled with training and idea sharing. Learn more, including a full agenda in […]
The closure of school buildings in response to the coronavirus has been disruptive and inconvenient for many families, but for those living in homeless shelters or hotel rooms — including roughly 1.5 million school-aged children — the shuttering of classrooms and cafeterias has been disastrous. For Rachel, a 17-year-old sharing a hotel room in Cincinnati […]
Video by Mary Kay Hudson, Executive Director of Office of Court Services with guests Allen County Court Administrator John McGauley and Judge Frances Gull Some Indiana problem-solving courts have found innovative ways to adapt to COVID-19. Allen Superior Court Judge Fran Gull and Court Executive John McGauley discuss the importance of strategic planning and creativity […]
In addition to the ongoing challenges presented by the COVID-19 global pandemic, the nation’s opioid epidemic has grown into a much more complicated and deadly drug overdose epidemic. The AMA is greatly concerned by an increasing number of reports from national, state and local media suggesting increases in opioid- and other drug-related mortality—particularly from illicitly […]
The short guide from CISA offers quick tips and links to deeper resources for employees at every level. The mass teleworking required by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is creating new cybersecurity vulnerabilities and exacerbating old ones. In response, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency released a quick guide to help organizations address these issues at […]
INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Commission for Higher Education says the state has received another $25 million in CARES Act funding to continue efforts to upskill more Hoosiers through expanded Next Level Jobs programs. The money is used to help provide training to people who lost their jobs during the pandemic. It can also be used […]
Rachel Barnard, a public artist-in-residence, works to provide a safe space for deep listening while inspiring hope through the creation of whimsical, unconventional art space called “Wisdom Pavilions” in a NYC Probation office. The goal of this project to positively shift the departments culture and transform relationships between NYC Department of Probation officers and their […]
Here’s the grim way the Vanderburgh County Health Department described a recent event. Few people wore masks. They didn’t socially distance. And as a result, several attendees tested positive for COVID-19, adding to the mountain of cases lording over the Evansville area. The VCHD referenced that event in a statement to Eyewitness News over the […]
On Wednesday, October 21, APPA and SCRAM Systems will host a webinar discussing advancements in #smartphone application technology as it relates to probation and parole. What new developments are we seeing? How can it improve your community supervision? Register for this free training at 3 p.m. EDT!
By Nancy Wever, Director | Indiana Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative
Almost overnight, Indiana’s youth justice systems went from business as usual to remote supervision, virtual interactions, and attending court hearings online. What may have been considered something that would never happen six months ago did happen and will likely permanently shape the operation of youth justice systems. Those who work in youth justice systems—in addition […]
With COVID-19 continuing to spread, and millions of Americans still out of work, one of the nation’s most urgent problems has only grown worse: hunger. In communities across the country, the lines at food pantries are stretching longer and longer, and there’s no clear end in sight. Before the pandemic, the number of families experiencing food […]
The Indiana Supreme Court has posted proposed changes to the Access to Court Records Rules and the Rules of Trial Procedure. The public is invited to submit comments on these proposals until noon (Eastern) on October 29, 2020. Access to Court Records Rule 5 The proposed amendments to Access to Court Records Rule 5 would […]
Indiana’s public pension funds for state and local government employees, including teachers, has apparently weathered the financial markets’ volatility during the coronavirus pandemic, new data from the state show. The General Assembly’s Pension Management Oversight Committee heard Wednesday that the Indiana Public Retirement System increased its pension assets by 2.56% to $30.6 billion during the […]
James T. Knight (“Knight”)—who is a licensed Indiana attorney and who pled guilty to Class A misdemeanor battery in exchange for the dismissal of two felony criminal confinement charges, a felony domestic battery charge, and a misdemeanor domestic battery charge—appeals the trial court’s order amending the conditions of his probation pursuant to INDIANA CODE § […]
Community Corrections has been on a journey to transform our practice of probation and parole. We interviewed parole officers as well as clients of Dodge/Fillmore/Olmstead (DFO) Community Corrections to get stories about their experiences. This short video (8 minutes) shows the impact Olmsted County is making.
Alexis Stogdill, a Probation Officer in the Monroe Circuit Court Probation Department was nominated for an award as an Outstanding Mental Health Provider by Mental Health America of Monroe County (BLOOMINGTON) – Mental Health America of Monroe County presents an online virtual event to recognize our Mental Health Champions and stand-out members of the community. […]
Paige Newland, Learning Consultant/Program Coordinator | Office of Court Services
An emergency like flood, fire, power outage, mold, active human threat—or, as we all now realize, a pandemic—can adversely impact the court system in ways we may not expect. Employee absence, loss of records, technology failure, or facility damage can greatly diminish the effectiveness of the court system and result in the delayed administration of […]
The Honorable Earl G. Penrod, Senior Judge | Indiana Judicial Outreach Liaison, IOCS Education Division
Scenario: A police officer sees a vehicle pass by, but doesn’t see the driver. The officer doesn’t observe any traffic or improper driving violations, but runs the license plate and learns the registered owner has a suspended operator’s license. The officer stops the vehicle and immediately notices a strong odor of alcohol and multiple signs […]
The Children’s Commission’s preliminary review of Indiana’s juvenile justice system is set to begin with a task force meeting on September 30. Read the Announcement to Counties and Stakeholders (PDF file)
After a 40-year accomplished legal career, General Counsel Brenda Rodeheffer is retiring from the Office of Judicial Administration on October 2. The Supreme Court and staff will thank Brenda for her service with a brief, remote ceremony. You are welcome to watch the live webcast at noon ET on September 22. Congratulations on a well-deserved […]
The Judicial Conference of Indiana has published a new strategic plan to drive improvements to the state’s justice system. The 20-page blueprint urges reform in 7 key areas: access to justice, security, technology, clerk functions, court structure, judicial selection, and centralized funding. Learn more about the Strategic Planning Committee.
Centerstone recently received a Comprehensive Opioid Recovery Center grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration worth $3.4 million over the next four years. Only one of two organizations nationwide to receive the federal grant, Centerstone plans to use the funds to establish the center, which will provide a full spectrum of treatment […]
The Rookie Probation Officer of the Year award was established in 2014 to recognize probation officers who, while at the beginning of their career, have shown the attitude, aptitude, and desire to improve themselves and to develop into leaders among their peers. Judge Lance Hamner describes this year’s winner as a bright, enthusiastic and hard […]
Virtual Convening: The New Juvenile Probation: Lessons from the Frontlines convening will examine cities and counties across the United States that have revolutionized their approach to juvenile probation. The event will be held on Tuesday, September 29, 2:00-3:30, ET, pm. It is sponsored by the Stoneleigh Foundation and the Columbia University Justice Lab. You can […]
During the POPAI Annual Meeting on September 16, 2020: Board Members were elected President-Adam McQueen Secretary-Cherie Wood District 2-Heather Malone District 4-Mike Small District 6-Lindsey Villalpando District 8-Mignon Ware POPAI Job Opening announced: Conference Coordinator. Details including essential duties and responsibilities in a PDF document. Send cover letter and resume to Adam McQueen, POPAI President […]
As U.S. law enforcement departments are accused of racist policing, one of the most common responses by the people in charge has been to have officers take “implicit bias” training. The training usually consists of a seminar in the psychological theory that unconscious stereotypes can lead people to make dangerous snap judgments. For instance, unconscious […]
POPAI will hold its annual business meeting via Zoom on Wednesday, September 16, 2020 at 12:00 p.m. EDT. All members are encouraged to log on to the meeting to learn about the status of the Association and vote on proposed bylaw changes posted here. We’ll also be conducting some random drawings to give away several […]
Join The Carey Group Wednesday, September 30, 2020, from 1:30 pm to 2:45 pm ET for a free webinar series on the use of cognitive tools to improve the success of those on supervision. These webinars will feature national colleagues who have reengineered their policies, practices, and organizational culture to incorporate the use of cognitive tools […]
The number of children in the U.S. foster care system has dropped for a second year in a row. That’s according to new federal data which also show that a record number of children in the child welfare system were able to find adoptive homes in 2019. The annual report from the Department of Health […]
The POPAI Board is seeking letters of intent and resumes from qualified individuals for two jobs at POPAI. The POPAI Conference and Recruitment Coordinator is responsible for planning, scheduling, coordinating, and implementing training, conferences, and educational opportunities for POPAI. Additionally, this position is responsible for recruiting new probation officer, associate, and corporate members. Download a […]
In September, the House will vote on removing cannabis from the Controlled Substances Act as well as erasing some marijuana criminal records, The Hill reports. The bill would not legalize cannabis. That choice would still be left up to states. Even though the vote will not legalize the drug, it will still be a historic […]
An Indiana judge killed in a small plane crash in southeastern Illinois was being remembered Sunday by fellow judges as a problem-solver who helped defendants start new lives. The plane crashed Saturday in southeastern Illinois, killed the pilot, Ryan Johanningsmeier, authorities said. He had been a judge in Indiana’s Knox County since 2015. “His tragic death leaves […]
AUBURN – Two men from Kosciusko County, who have battled their own drug addictions, are part of a first-for-northeast Indiana detox treatment center in Auburn. Mickey Ashpole, a Wawasee High School graduate, is the co-founder and executive director of Allendale Treatment. Tommy Streeter, a Warsaw Community High School graduate, is the community outreach coordinator with […]
Young adults and adolescents who are prescribed opioids for the first time may be at a slightly greater risk of developing a substance-related problem later in life, according to a new study co-authored by Indiana University researchers. However, the risk may not be as high as previously thought. The study was published Monday in JAMA Pediatrics and […]
In December 2019, Stephen Owens retired from the position of State Public Defender, after serving for eight years as leader of the office. His full career in the State Public Defender’s Office lasted for over 33 years. The State Public Defender’s Office is a judicial branch agency. The Public Defender is appointed by and serves at the pleasure of […]
Deficient data on the incidence of human trafficking offenses reflect pervasive issues with incident identification and reporting, a study combining stakeholder interviews and data analysis shows. Crime statistics on human trafficking are only as solid as the crime data informing them. Recent NIJ-supported research reveals that labor and sex trafficking data appearing in the FBI’s […]
TERRE HAUTE – The United Way of the Wabash Valley has received a three-year $1 million grant from the federal Health Resources and Services Administration. The nonprofit says the funding will be used to expand service delivery for substance use and opioid use disorders in rural areas of Sullivan, Parke and Vermillion counties. The United […]
This expansion will add access to trained peer support recovery professionals throughout the Hoosier state. (Indianapolis, Ind.) – Governor Eric J. Holcomb today announced a partnership between the Indiana Division of Mental Health and Addiction and Mental Health America of Indiana to expand access to trained peer support recovery professionals through the Indiana Recovery Network. […]
A rigorous evaluation of a well-grounded pilot program to boost the school performance and behavior of at-risk youth and improve safety in Palm Beach, Florida, schools revealed few positive or negative effects. NIJ sponsored the research. On paper, a “wraparound” approach to managing student delinquency while improving school safety makes perfect sense. The idea is […]
Albion Fellows Bacon In 1909, it would be another 11 years before women gained the right to vote in Indiana. But Albion Fellows Bacon was waiting for the ballot. Her two daughters had contracted scarlet fever that was spreading from Evansville’s overcrowded and dilapidated tenements. Bacon began campaigning for housing reforms and other changes, and […]
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
7/14/2020
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has created an environment that is particularly problematic for individuals with alcohol and substance use disorders (ASUD), according to physician scientists at the National Institutes of Health. In a commentary now online in the American Journal of Psychiatry, the researchers liken the global coronavirus emergency to a “perfect storm,” with dire […]
My writing on the freelance revolution usually starts with a story about an interesting startup, a challenge facing freelancers, or a skill set that characterizes highly successful independent professionals. But, in this last piece of the year, I’m taking liberties by recommending that your 2020 agenda include at least one new responsibility. Mentor someone. Would it […]
This research brief offers an initial analysis of newly-released data from the Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS), which report on the number of people under probation and parole supervision in 2017 and 2018. This brief seeks to put the data into the context of historical and international community supervision trends and to examine supervision rates […]
MARK YOUR CALENDARS! POPAI will hold its annual business meeting via Zoom on Wednesday, September 16, 2020 at 12:00 p.m. EDT. All members are encouraged to log on to the meeting to learn about the status of the Association and vote on proposed bylaw changes posted here. We’ll also be conducting some random drawings to […]
New data from around the U.S. confirms that drug overdoses are spiking during the coronavirus pandemic, rising by roughly 18%. Reports collected in real time by the Washington, D.C.-based group ODMAP — the Overdose Detection Mapping Application Program, located at the University of Baltimore — also found a significant spike in the number of fatal […]
The Indiana Black Legislative Caucus unveiled an expansive justice reform plan Thursday that reimagines policing across the state. The caucus hopes to advance the agenda in the next legislative session. It’s divided into five pillars: save lives, hold accountable, empower communities, change culture and improve transparency. There are more than three dozen proposed actions, including […]
Kendra Bradner, Vincent Schiraldi, Natasha Mejia, and Evangeline Lopoo
This research brief offers an initial analysis of newly-released data from the Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS), which report on the number of people under probation and parole supervision in 2017 and 2018. This brief seeks to put the data into the context of historical and international community supervision trends and to examine supervision rates through a […]
With the implementation of Criminal Rule 26 in January, courts across Indiana have been required to begin using evidence-based practices to make pretrial release decisions. But do those practices actually improve the criminal justice system? Up to this point, there’s been little evidence to determine whether pretrial risk assessment tools are effective. But a recent […]
POPAI is offering a virtual training opportunity in an attempt to assist everyone in obtaining EBP specific training hours this year. Dr. Brian Lovins, Principal at Justice System Partners, will be presenting his workshop Rethinking Community Supervision: Moving from a Referee to a Coach Model on Wednesday, September 16th and Thursday, September 17th from 9:00 […]
As an affiliate member of the American Probation and Parole Association (APPA), POPAI is excited to announce that we are sponsoring over 20 of our members to attend APPA’s Virtual Training Institute for FREE!!! APPA’s 45th Annual Training Institute will be held virtually starting Monday, August 24th through August 28th. Here’s a link for more […]
New norms are being established in community corrections amid the rapid changes related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many agencies have balanced their public safety mandates with the emerging public health threat by decreasing in-person officer-client interactions. Tele-supervision, as we have dubbed it, is the technology-enabled contact between staff and clients, whether during a sustained period […]
FLOYD COUNTY — Longtime Floyd County Prosecutor Keith Henderson has died, his office confirmed Saturday. Henderson, who served nearly two decades as prosecutor following an eight-year career as an Indiana State Trooper, died peacefully at his home Friday, according to a news release from Floyd County Chief Deputy Prosecutor Chris Lane. Henderson was surrounded by […]
The following candidates have been slated for the 2020 POPAI General Election with no contested positions. Adam McQueen, President Cherie Wood, Secretary Heather Malone, District 2 Representative Mike Small, District 4 Representative Lindsey Villalpando District 6 Representative Mignon Ware District 8 Representative
Practically overnight, the COVID-19 pandemic has forced community corrections agencies to fundamentally change their supervision practices to adapt to remote supervision. With the need to adapt swiftly, agencies’ leadership teams have not had the benefit of the methodical process that usually accompanies significant shifts in operations. As a result, we don’t have all the answers […]
Even with the expanded benefits for out-of-work people, millions of families had to sign up for food stamps during the early months of the pandemic. Now even more people are expected to need the assistance. More than 6 million people began receiving food stamps during the first three months of the coronavirus pandemic—a number experts say is […]
The day was March 16, 2020, in St. Paul, Ramsey County, Minnesota. The event was the COVID-19 global pandemic. The task was instantly transforming our department’s probation supervision practices from traditional to almost exclusively remote. This task, while challenging, was not unique to us in Ramsey County Community Corrections. We hope you will find this […]
Facebook messages exchanged between a man wanted on warrant and a fake profile created by police were not wrongly admitted during his jury trial, the Indiana Court of Appeals ruled in a Thursday decision. When Lafayette police learned that Michael Parker was wanted on a warrant from another jurisdiction and that he was possibly in […]
Abt Associates Holly Swan, PhD, Walter Campbell, PhD
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the United States (U.S.) justice system—from policing to reentry— has been profound (Chapman, Irazola, and Swan, 2020). Appropriately, much of the focus in media and scholarly outlets has been on the impact of the pandemic on prisons and incarcerated populations (Akiyama, et al., 2020; Busanksy, 2020; Burki, 2020; […]
Indiana judicial officers who want to participate in public events aimed at addressing social issues are allowed to do so, as long as they can in a manner that doesn’t impinge upon the independence, integrity, and impartiality of the judiciary, a new advisory opinion from the Indiana Commission on Judicial Qualifications says. The JQC issued Advisory […]
Over 300 individuals registered for the NIJ webinar: Pretrial Risk Assessment in Practice Lessons & Research from Indiana on July 15th, 2020 to learn about implementation of the Indiana Risk Assessment System – Pretrial Assessment Tool (IRAS-PAT) in Indiana. This webinar is now publicly available on YouTube and can be found here:
When in-person legal education events became virtually impossible during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Neighborhood Christian Legal Clinic chose to go virtual. The clinic, out of necessity, decided to implement a new way of reaching the communities it serves through a social media platform that has recently taken off, Facebook Watch. “The concept of […]
Every year POPAI provides a scholarship in memory of probation officer Donald “Charley” Knepple. Charley lost his life on April 28, 1997, while performing his probation officer duties in Allen County, Indiana. In an effort to honor an outstanding professional and to promote further professionalism, POPAI selected a scholarship that would encourage continued education and […]
The lawsuit alleges three private companies that provide telecom services in prisons lied to state and local governments about the cost of doing business. A new lawsuit filed in federal district court is taking aim at the high cost of making phone calls from prison. Families of incarcerated people are calling the prices charged for […]
Public health experts and advocates have worried about correctional facilities since the beginning of the pandemic. In such close quarters, social distancing is difficult or impossible, and a coronavirus outbreak poses risks to inmates, staff and the surrounding communities. To mitigate those risks, some governors — including those in Indiana’s neighboring states — took steps to reduce […]
The Caution Against Racially Exploitative Non-Emergencies Act would create penalties for those who make false emergency reports. On Memorial Day in New York City, a white woman named Amy Cooper called the police on a Black birdwatcher, Christian Cooper (the two are not related), and falsely reported that he was threatening her. A video of the […]
Many attorneys doing public defender work do so under contract with counties – meaning they get paid a flat amount, regardless of the number of hours they work. And that’s the primary method of public defense in about a third of Indiana. (WFIU/WTIU News file) Many lawyers in Indiana doing public defender work earn less than […]
Nominations are being accepted until August 17, 2020 for three awards traditionally presented during our Annual Meeting. The Founder’s Award is a way of recognizing individuals who have significantly contributed to the field of probation in general, and specifically to the POPAI organization. The recipient need not be a Probation Officer or POPAI member. The […]
According to the POPAI Bylaws, Article XIV AMENDMENTS These bylaws may be altered, amended or repealed by the membership if a quorum is present at any regular or special meeting. Any proposed alteration to the bylaws shall be submitted to the President of the Executive Board at least sixty (60) days prior to the annual […]
Confusion over prolonged expungement wait times that Indiana’s longest-serving judge called “unjust” was settled Wednesday when the Indiana Supreme Court declared a new law that eliminated the confusion applies retroactively. In a 4-1 ruling, the Indiana Supreme Court ordered the Elkhart Superior Court to grant the expungement that N. G. has sought beginning in 2018. […]
TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — The pandemic has taken a toll on day-to-day life for most people, including those in the recovery community. From the loss of in-person recovery meetings, to unemployment and furloughs, to a general sense of disconnect, recovering addicts are faced with several COVID-19 related hurdles as they navigate through the […]
As viral videos of shoppers’ tirades and confrontations over being asked to wear face coverings during the COVID-19 pandemic erupt, major retailers are urging governors to make it a requirement for everyone to wear a mask. The Retail Industry Leaders Association, which represents Walmart, Target, Best Buy, Walgreens, Home Depot and other major chains, says different local mandates across […]
There have been transformative changes in pretrial practices nationwide in the era of the coronavirus, according to a new, unpublished survey of several pretrial services agencies. “You saw a lot of criminal justice stakeholders getting together on how best to handle this [the pandemic],” said Jim Sawyer, executive director of the National Association of Pretrial Services […]
(BEDFORD) – The Lawrence County Commissioners gave their approval for Lawrence County to be a Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative (JDAI) county. Juvenile Referee Anah Hewetson Gouty told the commissioners Tuesday morning that the county has received a grant for around $50,000 to participate in the initiative. “The increased and unnecessary use of secure detention exposes […]
The 2020 legislative session ended in March – but many of the major education and health care measures passed by the state legislature go into effect on Wednesday. Hands-Free Driving Hoosiers can no longer use their cell phones while driving unless they’re hands-free, starting Wednesday. Indiana Department of Transportation spokesperson Scott Manning said drivers can […]
The image of 12 people packed shoulder-to-shoulder in a jury box is a powerful one. Enshrined in the Constitution, and in countless hours on television. But now? Court officials around the country are weighing their options while dealing with the looming threat of COVID-19. In Indiana, jury trials are scheduled to resume on July 1, and […]
The authors examine the relationship between supervision intensity and probation outcomes (i.e., increase in supervision level and rearrest) among low-risk individuals. Results show that individuals placed on the low-risk caseload were less likely to have probation revoked than low-risk probationers placed on regular caseloads. There was no significant relationship between low-intensity supervision and rearrest. Download […]
CLARK COUNTY — A Clark County board voted Tuesday to modify an in-patient addiction program for inmates to an outpatient-only program — a change some say is needed to protect against COVID-19 and others say will dampen the program’s effects. The Clark County Community Corrections board — which has representatives from multiple county departments and […]
The National Judicial Opioid Task Force (NJOTF) has created excellent tools to assist courts in addressing the addictions crisis. Many of these tools are “deliverables” or “bench-cards” for a judge to quickly reference, e.g. a Substance Use Disorder Dictionary for State Courts and a guide to treating pregnant women with opioid use disorder. The NJOTF’s […]
Registration is open for APPA’s 45th Annual Training Institute – Value and Vision: A Virtual Experience Date(s): August 24 — 28, 2020 Venue: Virtual Website: coming soon! student rate: $99 early, non-member rate: $230 late, non-member rate: $290 early bird discount available through 7/30/20. APPA Individual Member discount available, just sign-in. APPA Agency Member discount […]
It wasn’t quite the retirement he expected. With COVID-19 forcing most of the population to work from home, Court of Appeals Judge John Baker quietly visited the Indiana Statehouse in early June to pack up his chambers. He’s been working from his Bloomington home, and even though he won’t officially retire until July 31, he […]
A new report says the CARES Act has offered an important boost to low-income families. But aid will dry up as the year goes on. Cash payments and the expanded unemployment benefits many Americans qualify for under the coronavirus relief package that Congress passed this spring will help to prevent a sharp rise in poverty […]
