SPRING 2026 VOLUME 50, NUMBER 1 THE JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN PROBATION AND PAROLE ASSOCIATION WWW.APPA-NET.ORG COMMUNITY SUPERVISION AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCEC ommunity corrections has always been a profession grounded in people, purpose, and the belief in second chances. Our work is built on relationships, accountability, and the daily commitment to helping individuals change the trajectory of their lives. Today, we find ourselves at a defining moment— one where technology, specifically artificial intelligence (AI), is rapidly reshaping how we carry out that mission. AI is no longer a concept of the future. It is here. It is evolving. And it is already influencing decision- making across justice systems nationwide. Artificial intelligence has the potential to fundamentally transform community corrections from reactive supervision to proactive engagement. With the right tools, agencies can identify risk patterns earlier, allocate resources more effectively, enhance case planning and intervention strategies, and improve operational efficiency These advancements allow officers to spend less time navigating administrative burdens and more time doing what matters most—engaging directly with the individuals they supervise. AI, when used responsibly, can strengthen our ability to deliver smarter, more targeted supervision that improves outcomes for individuals and communities alike. As we embrace innovation, we must remain grounded in a fundamental truth—AI will not replace community supervision professionals; it will elevate them. No algorithm can replicate professional judgment. No data system can replace human connection. No technology can substitute the trust built between an officer and the individual they supervise. Our role as practitioners is not diminished by AI—it is strengthened by how we choose to use it. With innovation comes responsibility. AI systems are only as effective and as fair as the data and design behind them. Without intentional oversight, these tools can unintentionally reinforce bias, compromise privacy, and erode trust in the justice system. As leaders in the field, we must establish clear guardrails – transparency in how tools are developed and used; accountability for decisions and outcomes; equity in data inputs and system design; and human oversight in all critical decisions. AI should inform decisions, not make them. The question before us is not whether AI will shape community corrections. It is whether we will lead this transformation or allow it to define us without our input. For 50 years, APPA has been the voice of community corrections—bringing together practitioners, researchers, and policymakers to advance the field. That leadership requires us to invest in workforce education and training on AI; develop standards for ethical and effective implementation; and promote innovation while protecting the core values of our profession. We cannot afford to be passive participants in this moment of change. At its core, community corrections is about people, accountability balanced with opportunity, structure paired with support, and helping individuals succeed where they once struggled. Technology can enhance our work—but it cannot define it. As we move forward, we must ensure that innovation strengthens, not replaces, the human element that is the foundation of our profession. AI presents us with an opportunity to improve outcomes, increase efficiency, and better serve the individuals and communities entrusted to us. But success will depend on how we lead. We must approach this moment with intention, act with integrity, and remain focused on our mission. The future of community corrections is not something that will happen to us—it is something we will shape. This is our moment to lead. Let’s embrace innovation with clarity, set the standard for responsible use of technology, and ensure that, no matter how advanced our tools become, our commitment to people remains at the center of all we do. president’s message MARCUS M. HODGES PRESIDENTT his issue of Perspectives is especially timely. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is quickly capturing our attention. Its ability to improve productivity is becoming clearer. In community corrections, the discussion about AI focuses not just on what it can do but on how it can be used effectively and ethically. Important questions revolve around how AI might change individuals’ experiences under supervision, as well as its effects on staff workload and decision-making. In a discussion with a friend who works on developing AI applications, he stated that AI adoption takes many forms, including limited-memory systems, generative AI, predictive analytics, automation, and content creation. Honestly, a lot of words I don’t understand. Albeit, I am trying, and full disclosure: I used AI to shorten my message from 5,000 words to under 3,000. This demonstrates both AI’s strength and the importance of carefully deciding when and how to use it. APPA has played a key role in advancing discussions on AI in community supervision. At the 2022 Executive Leadership Summit, an AI expert helped clarify the technology’s complexities, and we’ve asked our Technology Committee to keep the topic prominent. We also include AI-focused sessions in our webinars and training institutes to explore its growing role. Recent training institutes in New York and Atlanta covered topics such as integrating AI into supervision practices, using AI to support client transformation, maintaining professional judgment, and addressing ethical considerations. As always, I want to thank APPA’s staff and the incredible editors who volunteer their time and talents to create a meaningful product. Of course, special thanks to the contributors for their insightful articles — each offering a unique perspective. First, Harnessing AI for Developmentally Supportive Feedback for System- Involved Youth highlights AI’s role in juvenile justice, emphasizing supportive growth for youth by focusing on their strengths, skills, and potential. Secondly, AI in Community Corrections: The Promise of Smart Supervision, emphasizes AI’s transformative role as a supportive tool for probation officers. Third, the article on AI-Driven Risk Assessments calls for cautious implementation with ethical safeguards to ensure fairness. Lastly, The Future of Community Supervision: Where AI Meets Human Judgment advocates for a balanced integration of AI and human judgment, suggesting optimal outcomes come from combining data analytics with personal experience. Together, these contributions enhance our understanding and encourage us to think critically about how AI can be responsibly incorporated into community supervision. As we progress, it is crucial to prioritize ethics and preserve the human element by ensuring that AI serves as a tool for empowerment rather than a replacement. VERONICA CUNNINGHAM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR/ CEO APPA executive director/ceo’s messagePerspectives disseminates information to the American Probation and Parole Association’s members on relevant policy and program issues and provides updates on activities of the Association. The membership represents adult and juvenile probation, parole, and community corrections agencies throughout the United States and abroad. Articles submitted for publication are screened by an editorial committee and, on occasion, selected reviewers, to determine acceptability based on relevance to the field of criminal justice, clarity of presentation, or research methodology. Perspectives does not reflect unsupported personal opinions. Articles must be emailed to perspectives@csg.org in accordance with the following deadlines: • Unless previously discussed with the editors, submissions should not exceed 12 typed pages, numbered consecutively, and double-spaced. All charts, graphs, tables, and photographs must be of reproduction quality. Optional titles may be submitted and selected after review with the editors. •All submissions must be in English and in American Psychological Association (APA) Style. • Authors should provide a one-paragraph biography, along with contact information. • Notes should be used only for clarification or substantive comments, and should appear at the end of the text. • References to source documents should appear in the body of the text with the author’s surname and the year of publication in parentheses, e.g., to (Mattson, 2015, p. 73). • Alphabetize each reference at the end of the text using the following format: • Mattson, B. (2015). Technology supports decision making in health and justice. Perspectives, 39(4), 70-79. •Hanser, R. D. (2014). Community corrections (2 nd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage. While the editors of Perspectives reserve the right to suggest modifications to any contribution, all authors will be responsible for, and given credit for, final versions of articles selected for publication. Submissions will not be returned to contributors. instructions to authorsaffiliate members American Correctional Association Association of Paroling Authorities International Association of Women Executives in Corrections Chief Probation Officers of CA Confederation of European Probation IJIS Institute International Community Justice Association Interstate Commission for Adult Offender Supervision KS Association of Court Services Officers National Association of Pretrial Services Agencies National Association of Probation Executives National Crime Prevention Council New England Council on Crime and Delinquency New Zealand Association of Probation Officers OH Chief Probation Officers Association Probation Association of New Jersey Probation Officers Association of Wielkopolska Probation Officers Professional Association of IN VA Probation and Parole AssociationHARNESSING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TO PROVIDE DEVELOPMENTALLY SUPPORTIVE FEEDBACK FOR SYSTEM-INVOLVED YOUTH BY JUSTIN T. RICHARDSON | BELLAMY WILLIAMS | ROYCE HILL SASHA KUHL | ADAM D. FINE 26 AI-DRIVEN RISK ASSESSMENTS: BALANCING ACCURACY, TRANSPARENCY, AND FAIRNESS BY CHRISTOPHER INKPEN, PH.D. | PAMELA K. LATTIMORE, PH.D. NICHOLAS POWELL, PH.D. | BRIA D. CROSS, A.B.D. RYAN M. LABRECQUE, PH.D. 38 corporate members 6 PRODUCTION STAFF 7-8 APPA CORPORATE MEMBERS THE PROMISE OF SMART SUPERVISION BY STEVE JENKINS | BENGISU TULU | LINDSAY SMITH 11 ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS: FAYE TAXMAN THE FUTURE OF COMMUNITY SUPERVISION: WHERE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE MEETS HUMAN JUDGEMENT BY JACK MARTIN, FORMER PROBATION AND PAROLE CHIEF, CURRENT CLIENT EXECUTIVE, TYLER TECHNOLOGIES 20 featuresPRODUCTION STAFF Veronica CunninghamEditor in Chief Kimberly KrasPerspectives Co-Editor Katie MeyerPerspectives Co-Editor Elisabeth Gill-MelendezManaging Editor Travis JohnsonProduction Coordinator Matt GoddardGraphic Designer DIRECTORY APPA Main (859)244-8204 Publication Orders (859)244-8204 General Training Institute (859) 244-8236 Information Clearinghouse (859) 244-8204 Membership (859)244-8212 Request for Training (859)244-8236 Resource Expo (859)244-8206 Advertising (859)244-8206 Grants/TA (859)244-8015 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Marcus HodgesPresident Pamerson O. IfillPresident-Elect Isabel Perez-MorinaVice President Tania ApplingTreasurer Suwana KirklandSecretary Susan RiceImmediate Past President Scott TaylorSecond Past President Audrey RigsbeeAffiliate Representative DeAnna Hoskins Member At-Large Alyza GonzalezLine Staff Representative Jennifer BradyRegion 1 Representative Hannah CochranRegion 2 Representative Dena DavisRegion 3 Representative Gene CotterRegion 4 Representative LaTasha JonesRegion 5 Representative Veronica CunninghamExecutive Director/CEO Communications should be addressed to: American Probation and Parole Association c/o 2024 American Probation and Parole Association 1776 Avenue of the States, Lexington, KY, 40511 Fax: (859) 244-8001, E-mail: appa@csg.org Website: www.appa-net.org Perspectives is published four times annually by the American Probation and Parole Association through its secretariat office in Lexington, Kentucky. ISSN 0821-1507 Reprint permission. Direct requests for permission to use material published in Perspectives in writing to perspectives@csg.org. ©2024 The Council of State Governments CO-CHAIRS: KATIE MEYER Program Manager Evident Change 717 John Nolen Dr. Madison, WI 53713 Phone: (800) 306-6223 kmeyer@evidentchange.org KIMBERLY R. KRAS, PHD Associate Professor School of Public Affairs San Diego State University Department of Criminal Justice School of Public Affairs 5500 Campanile Drive San Diego, CA 92182 Phone: (619) 594-1158 kkras@sdsu.edu ELISABETH GILL- MELENDEZ, MANAGING EDITOR Graduate Assistant School of Public Affairs San Diego State University Department of Criminal Justice School of Public Affairs 5500 Campanile Drive San Diego, CA 92182 Phone: (619) 594-1158 egillmelendez4958@sdsu.edu MEMBERS: Eileen Ahlin, Ph.D., Penn State Harrisburg Allison Butterfield, Ph.D., LaSalle University Lauren Duhaime, Ph.D., CNA Phillip Galli, Ph.D., St. Croix County Lily Gleicher, Ph.D., The Bail Project Shelley Johnson, Ph.D., University of North Carolina - Charlotte Jennifer Lanterman, Ph.D., University of Nevada Reno Reveka Schteynberg, California State University, San Bernardino Mark Stodola, Probation Fellow Jill Viglione, Ph.D., University of Central Florida Melissa Waldock, Kansas Department of Corrections Susan Wright, PA Counseling editorial board The American Probation and Parole Association is an affiliate of and receives its secretariat services from The Council of State Governments (CSG). CSG, the multibranch association of the states and U.S. territories, works with state leaders across the nation and through its regions to put the best ideas and solutions into practice.All ied Universal Electronic Monitoring Kerri Ryan, Strategic Marketing Manager 1838 Gunn Hwy, Odessa, FL 33556 kerri.ryan@em.aus.com Averhealth Justin Manni, Vice President of Business Development 2916 W. Marshall Street, Suite A Richmond, VA 23230 jmanni@averhealth.com Buddi ED Harrison, Director of Sales & Service Buddi US, LLC 2710 Alt 19 North, Palm Harbor, FL 34683 Ed@buddi.us Cognisen Christian Britton 1029 16th Street Modesto, CA 95354 Christian.britton@cognisen.com Corrections Software Solutions James Redus, President 316 North Lamar Street, Austin, TX 78703 jredus@correctionssoftware.com Empower Mikalya Berry 3500 Piedmont Road NE Suite 310 Atlanta GA, 30305 mikayla.berry@empowercommunitycare.com Fieldware Susan Rice, Senior Customer Success Manager 159 N. Sangamon St. Suite 200 Chicago, IL 60607 ktomlinson@fieldware.com Geo Care Monica Hook, VP, Communications 4955 Technology Way Boca Raton, FL 33431-3367 mhook@geocareinc.com GoSafe Telematics Company Jiang Mona Room 401-6, Building1, No 42 Dongzhong Road Huangpu DistrictGuagdong, China 510765 Export7@gosafesystem.com Indivior Scott Schoenborn, Therapeutic Area Lead 10710 Midlothian Tpke, Suite 430 North Chesterfield, VA 23235-4722 scott.schoenborn@indivior.com Intoxalock Linda Vadel, Affiliate Marketing Coordinator 11035 Aurora Ave, Des Moines, IA 50322 lvadel@intoxalock.com Journal Technologies Kathy Cullen, Marketing Director 915 E 1st Street, Los Angeles, CA - 90012 kcullen@journaltech.com LifeSafer MaryBeth Graff, Marketing Coordinator 1411 Diggs Drive, Raleigh, NC 27603 marybeth.graff@scramsystems.com National Curriculum and Training Institute Gary Bushkin, President 319 East McDowell Road, Suite 200 Phoenix, AZ 85004-1534 gary@ncti.org Noble Software Group Diana DeMedio, President 108 Rosewood ST, Lake Jackson, TX 77566-4937 ddemedio@noblesg.com OK Alone Freddie McGrath Suite 300-848 Courtney Street Victoria BC V8W 1C4 Canada freddie.mcgrath@peoplesafe.co.uk Plasma One Isiah Christian 111 W. Monroe Chicago, IL 60603 isaiah@argocapital.com Reconnect Pete Andrews, CEO 1 Faraday Drive Cumberland, ME 04021 pete.andrews@reconnect.io Corporations with an interest in the field of probation, parole, and community corrections are invited to become APPA corporate members. Corporate members receive benefits such as enhanced visibility among APPA’s international network of community corrections professionals, as well as shared information on the latest trends and issues that specifically affect community corrections. CORPORATE MEMBER corporate members C ontinued on page 8..RemoteCOM Robert Rosenbusch, President/CEO 4955 Technology Way 2251 Double Creek Dr # 404 Round Rock, TX 78664 robert@remote-com.com SCRAM Systems Erin White, Events Marketing Manager 1241 West Mineral Avenue, Ste 100 Littleton, CO 80120 ewhite@scramsystems.com Shadowtrack Robert L. Magaletta, President & CEO PO Box 1686 Covington, LA 70434-1686 robert@shadowtrack.com Smart Start, Inc. Annette Beard, National Sales Manager 500 E Dallas Rd Ste 100 Grapevine, TX 76051-7658 abeard@smartstartinc.com SolusGuard Michael Klein, Director of Sales & Marketing 201-15 Innovation Blvd. Saskatoon, SK S7N 2X8, Canada SuperCom, Inc. David DeGeorge, Regional Sales Manager 200 Park Avenue South New York, NY 10003 The Change Companies Jesse Tillotson, National Director of Justice Services The Change Companies 5221 Sigstrom Dr, Carson City, NV 89706 jtillotson@changecompanies.net Track Group Miranda Follis, Director of Marketing 200 East 5th AvenueSuite 100 Napierville, IL 60563 miranda.follis@trackgrp.com Tyler Technologies Lara Lung, Trade Show Specialist 5101 Tennyson Parkway Plano, TX 75024 Lara.Lung@tylertech.com 806-791-8200 ACCI Lifeskills Trevor Llyod, President 1675 N Freedom Boulevard, Ste 5B Provo, UT 84604 www.accilifeskills.com corporate membersassociate memberAPPA SPECIALIZED SERVICES REAL SOLUTIONS. BUILT FOR YOUR AGENCY. Let’s get to work. Have a challenge that won’t wait? Need targeted training beyond APPA’s Training Institutes? Looking to strengthen supervision practice, policy, and/or leadership? We provide practical, agency-specific support such as: •Focused in-person or virtual training •Executive and frontline coaching •Policy & practice assessment •Workgroup facilitation •Strategic problem-solving No generic content. No off-the-shelf fixes. Just tailored support aligned to your goals and budget. APPA, in partnership with the Center for Effective Public Policy, delivers customized training and technical assistance for community supervision agencies nationwide. SUBMIT A REQUESTNext >