On July 20, 2016 the Mahoning County Juvenile Probation Department completed certification in Epics (Effective Practices in Community Supervision) from The University of Cincinnati Correctional Institute. Mahoning County Juvenile Probation Department utilized UCCI four-phase process to support the design and implementation of an evidence based model of programming. As part of the process, UCIC development/modification of the program model along with the implementation of the model. This included training and coaching of MCJJC staff, and the provision of a framework for quality assurance.
The purpose of the EPICS model is to teach probation and parole officers how to apply the principles of effective intervention (and core correctional practices) to community supervision practices. The core correctional practices are organized into an overall framework to assist with the application of specific skills within the context of community supervision. The EPICS model is designed to use a combination of monitoring, referrals, and face-to-face interactions to provide the offenders with a sufficient “dosage” of treatment interventions, and make the best possible use of time to develop a collaborative working relationship. Ultimately, the EPICS model helps translate the risk, needs and responsivity principles into practice. Community supervision officers are taught to increase dosage to higher risk offenders, stay focused on criminogenic needs, especially the thought-behavior link, and to use a social learning, cognitive behavioral approach during their interactions. The EPICS model is not intended to replace other programming and services, but rather is an attempt to more fully utilize officers as agents of change.
"Offender Programs Report" Volume 19, No. 3 recently published an article written by UCCI staff members entitled: