Problem
It is important to understand how risk and risk management is applied in U.S. correctional systems. Ideally, a convicted person serves their time and then re-enters society a rehabilitated person, but this is often not the case. Evaluating the risk of recidivism can help judges, treatment providers, and probation and parole officers to work together to protect the community.
Using what you have learned from the readings and the M.U.S.E. assets, specifically Appendix A, page 13, from Five-Level Risk and Needs System Report, review the following case details:
A. Offender Name: John Smoke
B. Charge: Possession of methamphetamine
C. Age: 20 years old
D. Prior Criminal History: 3 previous misdemeanor convictions as a juvenile: shoplifting, smoking weed, and underage drinking. As an adult, he was convicted of a stalking misdemeanor.
E. Residence: Renting apartment with roommates
F. Employment: Fast-food restaurant
G. Mental History: No
H. Education: High school dropout, no GED
I. He is on probation for possession of methamphetamine and ecstasy.
J. John Smoke was stopped by officers because he was standing on a corner for many hours.
K. Upon the initial pat search, 30 ecstasy pills and a large amount of methamphetamine were discovered.
Using your required readings and the information provided above, develop a risk management analysis of John Smoke in your response. Assess the risks posed by the offender, and select an appropriate supervision assignment.
A. If you were his probation officer, what would be the best probation plan for John to be implemented?
B. Why do you believe your presentence investigation (PSI) report is fundamental in understanding the causes of an offender's criminal and antisocial behavior? Why do you think a clinical evaluation of an offender's potential change is vital?