Detentions Monthly Update January 2012

ARAPAHOE COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

ALTERNATIVE SENTENCING PROGRAMS

REPORT FOR 2011

The Alternative Sentencing section, of the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office, in 2011 was able to complete 2506 job site/home checks.  In 2010 the number of checks was 2197 so this means there was an increase in checks of 309 or 87%.  This is due to the Alternative Sentencing Deputies working together seven days a week to check on those individuals in the programs so that they are able to complete their time successfully.  

 As of October 2011, the weekender program had 135 individuals apply and 115 came into the program (85%).  Those who were not accepted were a result of not meeting the criteria in our policy and guidelines.  In 2009 those who applied for the weekender program numbered 418 and of those, 330 were accepted (78%).  This shows that while the number to apply may be down, of those who apply more are accepted.  This is a result of the courts understanding our criteria better and not authorizing individuals to the program who will not be accepted.

 The work release and multiple offender programs, as of December 2011, have received 405 applications.   Of these 405 applicants, 279 individuals were denied for not meeting the standard criteria that are set within the program’s guidelines.  With those who are pre-approved, 286 individuals came on to the two programs.  In 2009 419 were approved; however, 186 did not transfer because of finances, a lack of cells and beds or simply changed their minds and declined at the time of transfer.  With the declines the number of individuals in the two programs was 233.  With 286 as of November 2011, Alternative Sentencing has had 53 more individuals in the two programs.    

 These programs have all been successful as a result of the Judges of the 18^th Judicial District seeing them as a viable alternative and seeking alternatives for defendants who require a sentence more than Probation or Community Service and see the program as a fair method of restitution for the defendant’s criminal actions.  Other judges have also seen this and many municipalities and other counties agree to allow defendants to serve their time in one of our programs so that they are able to keep their jobs and continue working, while serving their time.