A Preliminary Evaluation of the Supervision With Immediate Enforcement Probation Program for Adult Gang–Affiliated Offenders in Texas

Abstract

As of 2012, it was estimated that there were more than 30,000 active gangs in the United States with at least 850,000 members. Despite significant challenges that criminal justice agencies and personnel face in treating and supervising gang members, few studies have examined adult gang member outcomes and the effects of community supervision on gang-affiliated offenders. Recent research demonstrates mixed evidence that high-risk offenders have better outcomes in smaller problem-solving courts and programs, which have dual emphasis on rehabilitation and deterrence-based approaches to corrections. This study evaluates the efficacy of the Supervision with Immediate Enforcement (SWIFT) Court Program for young adult gang–affiliated probationers compared with non-SWIFT gang members and high-risk non-gang offenders. Findings indicated SWIFT had a moderate deterrent impact on offending compared with alternative probation sanctions. Results and discussion related to problem-solving courts and policy-related issues surrounding gang-affiliated and youthful violent offenders are offered.

Philosophies in Community Supervision of Gang-Involved Youth and Adults

“…For example, Boxer and colleagues (2015) found that gang involvement reduced the likelihood of successful outcomes, and Saunders and colleagues (2009) found that gang members were much more likely to recidivate. However, other research has indicated that gang labels and technical violations—rather than new charges—are factors that can increase the risk of recidivism (Boots et al, 2018; Rios, 2011). Given that community corrections nationally have been supervising people connected with gangs for over 30 years, there is a substantial need to understand the specific factors that help people successfully transition out of gangs and off supervision.…”

“…Carefully crafting and implementing effective supervision strategies is even more critical for gang-involved youth and adults who, as discussed above, face intense challenges with respect to desistance (Boots et al, 2018; Matz et al, 2014; Spooner et al, 2017; Trulson et al, 2012). The precise mechanisms leading to recidivism, and how to prevent its occurrence, require more thorough research to address the needs of this high-risk population.…”