ATLANTA -  The Georgia Department of Community Supervision (DCS) has implemented a Person-Centered Framework into its organizational model. This framework entails an added focus on treating those we supervise with courtesy, dignity, and respect. 

 

DCS Commissioner Micheal Nail states: “We are in the people business, and rather define someone by their crime or conviction, we recognize people as unique individuals with their own strengths, needs, and goals.”

 

A culmination of several evidence-based strategies has built a strong foundation for the DCS Person-Centered Framework. DCS has adopted a Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) model, launched the Enhanced Supervision Program (ESP), and began utilizing Supervisee Pulse Surveys. These initiatives have improved services by increasing our understanding of individual circumstances, promoting success among supervisees, and including their feedback into policy decisions. 

 

To facilitate this framework, DCS partnered with the Urban Institute (UI) and the American Probation and Parole Association (APPA) to conduct a Procedural Justice (PJ) pilot study. Procedural Justice is a set of principles designed to assist authority figures in treating people with fairness and respect. Positive results from the pilot program recommend pursuing statewide implementation of the framework.

 

“The overall success of this pilot program relied heavily on the tremendous efforts of our staff and the collaboration with the Urban Institute, and the American Probation and Parole Association,” said Dr. Nicholas Powell, Director of Strategic Planning and Research for the Department. “It is important to note that this organizational framework does not change our supervision model, it serves as an additional tool to enhance the great work and accountability that DCS continues to provide through effective supervision” he further adds. 

 

In the coming weeks, DCS will comprise focus groups and action teams to ensure this person-centered framework is implemented with fidelity and metrics to assess programmatic success. 


 

About The Georgia Department of Community Supervision:

 

The Department of Community Supervision is responsible for the community-based supervision of more than 200,000 adult felony offenders, and Class A and Class B designated juvenile offenders.

 

It is the mission of the Georgia Department of Community Supervision to protect and serve all Georgia citizens through effective and efficient offender supervision in our communities while providing opportunities for successful outcomes. DCS employs evidence-based practices to hold offenders accountable and reduce the state’s recidivism rate. For more information, visit dcs.georgia.gov. 

 

Media Contacts:

 

Brian Tukes, Director of External Affairs

Georgia Department of Community Supervision

[email protected] 

470-217-6539

 

Jamelle Washington, Public Information Officer 

Georgia Department of Community Supervision

[email protected]

404-561-4590