Pilot integrated offender management programme success
21 Oct 2009
The Police Service of Northern Ireland today (Wednesday 21 October) hosted an Integrated Offender Management (I.O.M) Conference to outline the benefits of this multi-agency approach to reduce crime. The aim of the initiative is to turn around the lives of offenders by providing a gateway for them to halt their pattern of offending.
Delegates were provided with an outline of a recent multi-agency pilot in Ballymena, which was based on an award winning model implemented in Hertfordshire Constabulary.
Assistant Chief Constable Dave Jones outlines the benefits of the process for individuals and communities;
“I.O.M recognises that the police, probation service and youth justice can achieve better outcomes by working in partnership with other agencies. I.O.M approaches draw on the resources and support of all relevant partners to supervise, resettle and rehabilitate young and adult offenders.”
ACC Jones adds: “With the support of 18 local partners ranging from the Probation Board, youth justice, housing executive right through to the court service, solicitors and those providing addiction services and re-training services, Ballymena Police ran a pilot I.O.M programme targeting prolific offenders.
“Offenders taking part were encouraged to disclose all previous crimes through a process called ‘Taking Into Consideration.’ This ensures that once an individual is engaged in education or employment, and actively trying to change their circumstances, that they can remain in such an environment, as opposed to facing prosecution for crimes that may come to light at a later date.”
This does not mean that the programme is a soft option for offenders.
ACC Jones explains; “The court may recognise the offenders desire to rehabilitate but the individual must demonstrate over a period of time their desire to work with partner agencies and lead a life free of crime. If they are not serious in their efforts they will be placed before the court to be sentenced in a more traditional manner.”
Since the programme started in July 2008, in Ballymena it has delivered a number of notable benefits.
- Some of the offenders engaged with the programme previously committed crime to fund their addiction of between £40-£150 per day.
- Over the last 12 months Dwelling Burglaries have decreased by over 20% in Ballymena where the pilot was run.
- To date over 400 victims of crime have received closure as a result of offenders working with the District Integrated Offender Management Unit.
As a result of the initial success in Ballymena, the programme is being extended to the rest of the District.
Commenting on the success of the programme Detective Inspector Matt Bonner from Hertfordshire Constabulary said:
“The success of any I.O.M programme relies heavily on the support of partner agencies. We have been operating an I.O.M programme in Hertfordshire for the last three years and it has proved to be very successful. However, a flexible approach is required, as each individual’s circumstances are different and require a tailored solution.”
The role of I.O.M programmes will be explored further through a working group that is being established by the Criminal Justice Board.
