ABSTRACT
Families entwined in the justice system and their extended social networks are a natural, though underutilised, resource for community corrections. These families – defined broadly to include both traditional and elected members such as godparents, mentors, and clergy – are complex, facing serious issues and challenges, yet also possessing strengths and resources that probation and parole agencies can leverage to support successful community supervision. Who is there 24 hours a day and instantly recognises signs of distress? Who knows best the person under supervision? And who will be there long after supervision ends? By working with the families and the community supports of individuals on probation and parole, officers can capitalise on existing formal and informal resources to realise several benefits, not the least being reduction of technical violations and desistance from crime. Family engagement is a necessary component of any community corrections strategy that aims to interrupt cycles of juvenile and criminal justice involvement, improve family well-being, and promote public safety.
