CHAMBERSBURG, PA - Less than two months after its opening, the Franklin County Day Reporting Center has reached 100 participants. This intensive supervision and treatment program for offenders released in the county is funded by Franklin County operated by BI Incorporated, the nation's largest provider of technology, treatment and prisoner reentry services for community-based corrections.

The FCDRC is a progressive response by Franklin County officials to reduce jail overcrowding and change the behavior of repeat offenders. Those assigned to FCDRC must report within 24 hours of referral or release from jail. Participants progress through three levels of supervision that include regular reporting to the center, treatment and training, and ongoing testing for drug and alcohol use, which are strictly forbidden while enrolled in the program.

BI monitors participants directed to the DRC with daily check-ins, sophisticated electronic compliance technologies, advanced drug testing techniques, computerized data collection and intensive case management. Ongoing treatment includes classes focusing on:
•        Substance abuse education
•        Adult basic education and GED prep resources and referrals
•        Life skills classes
•        Cognitive restructuring classes
•        Anger management
•        Employment skills building and career development counseling
•        Team building

The program claims to help reduce recidivism when compared to traditional offender programs; target 100 percent employment or full-time school enrollment upon program completion; generate significant savings for taxpayers through lower incarceration costs, and alter participants' attitudes and behavior through treatment and training.

The Franklin County Commissioners awarded BI the contract to operate the DRC on Jan. 12, 2006 and the center opened in April. It is the first day reporting center BI operates at the county level.