Integrating Effective Probation Practices*

The programs instituted by the Sheriff's Inmate Services Division as well as other governmental entities are attempting to reduce inmate recidivism in Orange County. Agrees with the finding. Response: The Probation Department has embarked on several initiatives to reduce recidivism through introduction of "Integrating Effective Probation Practices" (IEPP) at various levels of agency operations, both within institutional services as well as field services. In line with establishing IEPP, recidivism rates are being monitored quarterly and reported annually in the Probation Department Business Plan. The Orange County Sheriff's Department Inmate Services Division's Correctional Programs and Inmate Re-Entry Units have implemented a variety of programs to directly reduce recidivism rates in Orange County. With the implementation of the PROXY initial screening tool, combined with the validated Wisconsin Risk and Needs Assessment, Inmate Services staff can now target those high risk to reoffend inmates providing them with intensive in-custody programs, discharge plans, and post release services through the Great Escape Resource Center. Also, as one of six counties selected to participate in the "Transition from Jails to Communities" initiative, the Orange County Sheriff's Department has taken the lead in developing collaborations with other key stakeholders in the county such as Probation, Social Services, Health Care, Collaborative Courts, and the Orange County Reentry Partnership (OCREP) with the goal of providing a seamless transition for inmates leaving the county jails and integrating back into the community. Finally, Inmate Services staff is currently working with the Urban Institute to develop better methods of collecting data and tracking recidivism rates.

Due to recent implementation of the federal ICE program, the financial impact is too new to be assessed. Disagrees partially with the finding Response: Since the 2010-2011 Grand Jury Review was completed on February 18, 2011, there has been data developed to establish the financial impact of the program. The Sheriff's FY 2010-2011 budget for the ICE detained program is $21.8 million in revenue. The total revenue billed for services for the period of August 2010 through January 2011 was $10.1 million. As of January 2011, the ICE revenue fiscal year-end projection is $21.4 million, which is just 1.8% less than the budgeted amount. Cost and contract obligations will continue to be monitored in future years. . .

The S.A.F.E. Division initiated by the Orange County Sheriff-Coroner in 2010 is an early-warning system designed to enhance sheriff department operations. Response: Agrees with the finding. With the establishment of the S.A.F.E. Division in 2008, the Orange County Sheriff Department has implemented systems such as the Personnel history Index, Critical Incident Review process and the Force Trends Board which are components to the department's early warning system. These systems have been developed to ensure the department's commitment to accountability, transparency and professionalism promised to the residents of Orange County. Responses to Recommendation R.2 through R.4