TY  - JOUR
AB  - Purpose The purpose of this paper is to gain the perspectives from social service providers that are a key component in focused deterrence programs. All focused deterrence/pulling levers programs have at least two essential elements: first, the message to the target population that reoffending will be met with swift and certain punishment, and second that social service providers are available to assist in their transition to a law-abiding lifestyle.Design/methodology/approach A case study approach was used to gather qualitative data with open-ended interviews of social service providers that participated in Operation RASOR, a modified focused deterrence initiative that identified cross-jurisdictional, chronic offenders across three cities in New England.Findings The results showed that many providers were unable, and sometimes unwilling, to participate in the strategy due to their lack of awareness of what focused deterrence strategies encompass, participant eligibility restrictions, and lack of funding. These findings may impact the success of focused deterrence programs.Research limitations/implications Future research should include a larger sample from programs operating in different cities. The importance of the social services component of focused deterrence strategies and their capability of serving clients within those programs needs further examination for the integrity of these programs to adequately serve the participants.Originality/value The perceptions from social service providers on the program elements and ability to provide necessary services to the targeted offenders have never been examined. This study aids in expanding the literature on focused deterrence programs. It can also inform law enforcement agencies on the services that are most needed by the target population and the importance of coordinating their initiatives with service providers.
VL  - 17
IS  - 3
SN  - 1757-8043
DO  - 10.1108/SC-01-2018-0001
UR  - https://doi.org/10.1108/SC-01-2018-0001
AU  - Schnobrich-Davis Julie
AU  - Gardner Desiree
PY  - 2018
Y1  - 2018/01/01
TI  - Service provider perspectives on a focused deterrence program
T2  - Safer Communities
PB  - Emerald Publishing Limited
SP  - 133
EP  - 144
Y2  - 2024/04/26
ER  -