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Receive a presentation outlining the Probation Department programs, new State mandates, new adult recidivism data, and programs and services available for youth, to include a review of data from Beyond the Arc, Inc., and information related to programs and services available for youth in field services and at the Juvenile Detention Facility
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Published Notice Required? Yes____ No__X_
Public Hearing Required? Yes____ No__X_
DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION:
The Probation Department recommends the Board of Supervisors receive a presentation outlining Department programs, new State mandates, new adult recidivism data, and programs and services available for youth, to include a review of data from Beyond the Arc, Inc., and information related to programs and services available for youth in field services and at the Juvenile Detention Facility (JDF).
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
The Probation Department has evolved into a department focused on evidence based (EBP) and evidence informed practices. The services offered to adults and juveniles in addition to the methods used for monitoring and supervision, has allowed the Department to move in a forward position for the past ten (10) years. The Department continues to strive to change lives and reduce recidivism through positive behavior change. The Department’s firm, fair, and care approach exemplifies the interactions with clients in the office and in the community.
The Probation Department is restructuring operations due to state mandates, legislative changes, and other responsibilities. As a result of the passage of SB129 (Pretrial), SB823 (DJJ Realignment) and AB1950 (Probation Term Limits), the Department will focus on providing support to the Superior Court for the Pretrial and Collaborative Courts programs, while at the same time, working diligently to provide services to adult clients once they are placed on probation or released from jail. The Department will expand its current pretrial program in order to serve more clients and will also assign a staff to represent the Department in Veteran’s and Mental Health Court. The Department will dedicate staff to assist clients with barrier removal and supportive services to maintain connectivity until the client is seen by a supervision officer. In addition, the Department will continue to provide supportive services to youth in the community and at the Juvenile Detention Facility (JDF).
The Department has partnered with Beyond the Arc, Inc. (BTA) since 2017 to analyze recidivism rates for adult clients. The current study looked at recidivism rates of adult clients under supervision before and after the implementation of the Adult Supervision Policy (P-100). An independent review of criminal justice records by BTA found the three-year reconviction rate was 33% after P-100 was implemented. The Department attributes this success to the innovative programing (cognitive behavioral treatment, substance abuse treatment, mental health treatment, job readiness, and vocational training), and the supervision services that are provided to adults which seek to reduce reoffending.
Along with adult clients, the Department continues to enhance services for youth at the JDF. Most recently, the JDF (in collaboration with the Solano County Office of Education) implemented a wellness center where the youth can participate in a variety of relaxation techniques in a trauma informed space with a clinician. In addition to the Wellness Center, the JDF is currently expanding and enhancing the Vocational Trades program. Students learn about the construction trades and construction careers, while achieving certification in trade elements, and outreach continues with local unions and trade organizations. The goal is to have representatives from the trade unions provide presentations to the youth to build connections and establish relationships prior to the youth being released.
For youth receiving supervision services in the community, the Department (in collaboration with the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation Tribe) continues to provide barrier removal services and technology support. Yocha Dehe funds have been used to purchase items needed for college, transportation assistance, housing support, mentoring, vocational training, and other activities. The Department also partnered with the Hidden Genius program which is an intensive immersion program designed to teach young men of color about technology creation as well as entrepreneurship and leadership skills. In addition, the Department hosted a hybrid virtual and in-person “Challenge Day” in December 2021 which gave youth a forum to open up and reflect on their lives, while having fun with staff and their peers.
As noted above, the Probation Department is having a positive impact on our clients and the community. We are firm, fair, and care, and will continue to implement programs and services for adults and youth that make a difference and are essential to the evolution of the probation field.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The cost of preparing this item is minimal and is absorbed in the Probation Department’s FY2021/22 Adopted Budget.
ALTERNATIVES:
The Board of Supervisors could choose not to receive the presentation from the Probation Department. This is not recommended as this is an opportunity for the Board of Supervisors and the public to receive information regarding new State mandates, an update on adult recidivism data, and the programs and services available for youth in field services and at the JDF.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
There is no other agency involvement.
CAO RECOMMENDATION:
APPROVE DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION