Doc.state.mn.us

Quality Assurance Workgroup
2008-2009
This report is printed on recycled paper with at least 10 percent post-consumer waste. Table of Contents

Quality Assurance Workgroup Members . 1
Introduction. 2
Current Policy . 3
Quality Assurance Workgroup . 4
Introduction/Overview. 4 Field Services Peer Driven Model . 5 Institutions Peer Driven Model. 5 Conclusions. 5 Introduction/ Method . 6 Inter-Rater Reliability . 7 Figure 1 . 8 Figure 2 . 9 Common Scoring Errors . 9 Do We Under-Assess Risk?. 10 Figure 3 . 11 Common Scoring Errors . 12 Conclusion/Recommendations . 13 Bibliography . 14 Appendix A: LSI-R Baseline Testing Material . 15 Appendix B: YLS/CMI Baseline Testing Material . 28 Quality Assurance Workgroup Members

DOC Workgroup Members
Jason Anderson, Chair

DOC Technical Support
Jennifer
Introduction
The Minnesota Department of Corrections (DOC), in efforts to utilize evidence-based practices, implemented the use of the Youth Level of Service/Case Management Inventory (YLS/CMI) in 2001. In similar fashion, the adult version – the Level of Service Inventory-Revised (LSI-R) – was also introduced in 2001. Assessment is the foundation to the delivery of effective correctional services, and it is the first principle to evidence-based practices for corrections. As the University of Cincinnati’s Ed Latessa and Christopher Lowenkamp have stated, “Risk assessment is now considered the cornerstone of effective correctional intervention” (Lowenkamp & Latessa, 2004). Utilizing a validated risk/need assessment tool based on actuarial data is good correctional practice. Resources are scarce and there is a significant amount of research that spells out the consequences if low-risk offenders are mistakenly targeted with intensive interventions. A quality, validated assessment identifies the criminogenic needs of offenders. It spells out the area(s) within the offender’s life that will likely contribute to future problems (i.e., recidivism, violating conditions of release) and subsequently dictates a course of action once offenders are assessed. The DOC recognized the need to utilize validated risk/need assessments on the populations it serves and subsequently adopted the YLS/CMI and LSI-R. These assessments were, and still are, the national and international standards of the corrections industry. The DOC developed policies and implemented the tools. Agents and case managers were trained. In the field, the tools had an immediate impact – both by assisting the agent in crafting proposed conditions of probation and/or supervised release and by assigning supervision level. In juvenile facilities, the YLS/CMI was adopted and utilized in identifying the programming needs of the population. In adult facilities, however, the LSI-R had a slower start. This was reflective of the systemic changes that had not yet occurred. The LSI-R score did not (and still does not) influence an inmate’s custody classification level. While it did not initially impact treatment accessibility, it does now and it is used to help determine who is placed on Intensive Supervised Release (ISR). Current Policy

At present, there are two policies that relate specifically to quality assurance regarding
the LSI-R and YLS/CMI:
203.015 LSI-R and YLS/CMI Assessment Process Quality Assurance Workgroup

Introduction/Overview
Attending to the quality of the risk/needs assessment tools has been one of the primary
objectives of the evidence-based practices project manager. A workgroup comprised of a
cross-section of staff was established to address the quality of the tools. Agents,
institutional case managers, supervisors, program directors, administrators, and LSI-R
and YLS/CMI trainers were invited to contribute to this effort. Each member brought
different perspectives and expertise to the table. By incorporating all levels of staff in
this endeavor, it is anticipated that buy-in to future recommendations is bolstered.
The workgroup first met in February 2008 and attempted to answer:
“How do we implement a comprehensive quality assurance plan/policy that strives
for 100 percent accuracy in regard to conducting risk/need assessments (LSI-R &
YLS/CMI) agency-wide?”
The group first decided to review current policies and practices about the measurement of
assessment quality.
Secondly, they chose to use a peer-driven model, which shifts responsibility from the
supervisor (or designee) to all parties (which must include the supervisor). The following
principles of this peer-driven model are taken as an excerpt from the National Institute of
Correction’s Quality Assurance Manual, December 27, 2005:
Principles
• An internal review process must be peer-driven. A cross-section of staff must be involved in the entire process, from determining the relevant outcomes to designing the assessment tool to analyzing results. Input from various staff levels will increase the relevance of the process and the results, as well as increasing staff commitment. • The process must be support and coaching-oriented. To reduce resistance and increase the chance of success, staff should view peer review as an opportunity for professional development, not as a punitive process. Feedback from the process should be supportive and constructive, and staff should be given the opportunity to learn, practice, and be coached to improve performance. • The process should create a culture of learning. The implementation and evaluation of quality, evidence-based practice is ongoing, so staff members never reach the point of “perfection.” This idea of a never-ending process may be frustrating for some, so the peer review process must create an environment that promotes the value of ongoing learning and continuous improvement. • The process should include a feedback loop. Peer review is only useful if the data is applied. Therefore, the process needs to be designed so that individuals and workgroups receive well-organized, timely data that can be applied to practice. Practitioners must be able to communicate changing data needs to the peer review team, as well as request additional feedback and evaluation as needed.
For purposes of this project, the process will look different for some units due to the wide
variation of the units themselves. Units should be given the guidance needed to craft a
model that will work for them. Following are some examples of models that have been
implemented.
Field Services Peer Driven Model
Field Services districts generally gather on a quarterly basis to review policy updates and
address topical issues. Peer review of assessments is a staple component of these
meetings. Agents are asked to bring a file of their choosing on which they have
completed a recent assessment. The supervisor instructs the agents to exchange files and
review the scoring of the assessment. Based on the material within the file (including the
interview guide and pre-sentence/pre-disposition investigation report), they are then
asked to look for discrepancies in the scoring of the assessment. Attention is given to
suspected scoring errors. Perhaps the assessment was scored incorrectly – or perhaps the
reviewer had a misunderstanding of how to score a particular question. They are given a
quality assurance form to capture a number of things – thus providing a formal
measurement/feedback mechanism.
Institutions Peer Driven Model
The Minnesota Correctional Facility-Willow River/Moose Lake began conducting peer
reviews in June 2008. Case managers gather on a weekly basis for Program Review
Team (PRT) reviews. A roster is established identifying which case manager is to
present a recently completed assessment at the meeting. Upon completion of the PRT,
the designated case manager presents his/her assessment to the group. The case manager
goes through each question of the assessment, indicating how it was scored and why it
was scored that way. The group openly discusses any discrepancies and/or areas of
subjectivity.
Conclusions
The above are a sample of what has been done thus far. Other variations are being
implemented both within field services and at facilities. Regardless of the model used, it
is important for the supervisor to be actively involved in the process. Assigning the
responsibility to a designee reinforces to staff that this is not of enough importance to
warrant their personal attention. This is not to say that the supervisors themselves must
become the resident experts. For any of these models to be truly effective, there must be
a trainer available to clarify scoring issues.
The intention of each of these models is to attend to scoring proficiency. It should be
noted that a quality assessment requires more than accurately interpreting the information
gathered. These assessments (the LSI-R and YLS/CMI) are to be scored based upon a
thorough interview, a comprehensive file review and collateral information as available.
While an assessor may be proficient in scoring the tool, s/he may not accurately gather
the requisite information. Subsequently, interview quality also requires attention.
Baseline Testing
Introduction/ Method
Measurement is the foundation of evidence-based practices. Without measurement, there
is no evidence. As we continue efforts toward quality risk/needs assessments, the
question remains: “Where are we currently?” In order to address this question, it is
important to collect baseline data. That data will provide a measurement of our current
state. Subsequent to implementation of revised quality assurance measures, it will also
serve as a measure against which new efforts can be compared.
Written scenarios were crafted for both the YLS/CMI and the LSI-R. The scenarios were
written by trainers of the tools and consisted of a fictitious pre-sentence investigation
(PSI) or pre-disposition investigation (PDI) and a supplemental written narrative, which
provided additional information about the client. These scenarios were subsequently
scored and remediated by multiple trainers. If the trainers found the scenario too
ambiguous to anchor the scoring for a particular question, the scenario was amended in
efforts to make it clear. The LSI-R scenario – including the PSI, supplemental narrative
and scoring key - is found in Appendix A. The YLS/CMI scenario – including the PDI,
supplemental narrative and scoring key – is found in Appendix B.
The intention was to test every DOC case manager and corrections agent to determine
their baseline scoring proficiency. Staff was tested in groups by field services district or
institution. They were advised that this was an individual scoring exercise and they were
not to consult with one another regarding the scoring. A total of 177 agents, 100 case
managers and 2 psychologists from the DOC’s Risk Assessment/Community Notification
Unit were tested regarding the LSI-R. Thirty-eight agents and 18 case managers were
tested regarding the YLS/CMI. The testing was anonymous by person, but not by facility
or district. Extracting the testing data by work unit will prove helpful in identifying
pronounced training (or buy-in) needs, and will also prove helpful when subsequent
measurement testing is completed to determine which peer-driven models are the most
effective.
This was not a “closed book test” in that staff was allowed to reference their Minnesota
Scoring Guide while completing the scoring exercise. They were asked to refer to the
scoring guide only if they would have done so while encountering a similar situation at
their desks.
This method has shortcomings. Scoring a written scenario is not analogous to
interviewing an offender, being able to read his/her body language, and ask follow-up
questions. Again, the intent of this testing is to determine scoring proficiency, the degree
to which staff are able to interpret the information the client presents in regard to the
scoring guide. A further criticism of this testing is the fact that identical scenarios were
used across varying positions for each respective tool. The same LSI-R scenario was
used for conventional agents, institution case managers and intensive supervision agents.
The same YLS/CMI scenario was used for all agents and case managers.
Inter-Rater Reliability
Inter-rater reliability means that when two practitioners conduct an assessment on the
same subject, they produce a similar assessment. Inter-rater reliability exists if scores are
within a range of 5 (plus or minus 2). The scenario used for the LSI-R baseline test had
33 as its score total. A range of 5 prescribes that there is inter-rater reliability if fellow
agents/case managers generate scores between 31 and 35, provided there were no more
than 2 questions that were scored differently.
These assessments are scored with responses that indicate risk or not a risk. Does the
individual have prior convictions? If they do, “YES” is the response entered, which
indicates “risk.” Does the individual have a poor attitude about supervision? If they do
not, “NO” is the response entered, which indicates “not a risk.” These two questions
represent two possible “points” on the assessment, and this hypothetical person obtained
one out of the two points. It is possible for a practitioner to mis-score both questions,
however (by erroneously entering “NO” they do not have a prior record, and “YES” they
have a poor attitude about supervision), and still assign one out of the two possible
points.
This illustrates the importance of the percentage of scoring accuracy. Of the 42 questions
within the YLS/CMI, what percentage of the questions did the practitioner score
correctly? Similarly, of the 54 questions within the LSI-R, what percentage of the
questions was scored correctly? For a true range of 5, the target is a 96 percent scoring
accuracy for the LSI-R and 95 percent for the YLS/CMI.
Therefore, scoring accuracy percentage is the true measure of inter-rater reliability.
LSI-R Results
For the total number of assessments, the mean (average) scoring accuracy percentage was
83 percent, with a range from 59 to 96 percent. The correct LSI-R score total for the
scenario used was 33. The average score produced was 29, with a range of 20 to 35.
Little attention should be given to the scores themselves as they are not the measure of
inter-rater reliability.
Figure 1 shows the LSI-R mean scoring accuracy percentage and mean score total for
institutions.
Figure 1

Scoring Accuracy Percentage and Mean Scores for Institutions
Figure 2 shows the LSI-R mean scoring accuracy percentage and mean score total for
field services districts.

Figure 2

Scoring Accuracy Percentage and Mean Scores for Field Services

Even if one choose to ignore the scoring accuracy percentage and erroneously elect to
define inter-rater reliability as just the score total, the data indicates 81 of the assessments
(29%) produced a score within a range of 5. This indicates that even if the goal of
achieving true inter-rater reliability was set aside in lieu of a target of simply getting
close with the score total, the department was able to accomplish this 29 percent of the
time.

Common Scoring Errors
There are certain questions within these assessments that require the practitioner to
exercise a degree of professional judgment in interpreting information presented by the
client. This dynamic can lend itself to scoring discrepancies between practitioners and
subsequently requires consistent and thorough training. An example of one of these
questions may be in the assessment of the client’s relationships. Are they pro-social,
enabling, or pro-criminal? Different practitioners may view these things differently.
In looking at the data from the baseline testing, the most commonly mis-scored questions
(defined as having been mis-scored more than 50% of the time) were not questions that
are prone to subjectivity. The most commonly mis-scored questions were fairly straight-forward items in which the practitioners failed to apply the scoring guide’s criteria in the scoring. Examples are: Question #2 Criminal history (Two or more adult priors?) This question was
mis-scored 87 percent of the time, as agents/case managers mistakenly considered
an offense that the client was still under supervision for as a prior. The scoring
guide clearly outlines that such offenses are to be considered current offenses.
Question #15 Education (Less than regular grade 10?) This question was mis-
scored 67 percent of the time as agents/case managers mistakenly gave the client
credit for having completed the 10th grade in a setting other than
regular/mainstream schooling. Again, the scoring guide outlines that such
schooling is not to be considered.
These sorts of scoring errors are indicative of practitioners not using the scoring guide.
Do We Under-Assess Risk?
It is interesting to note that data for the LSI-R indicated a tendency to under-assess the
scenario. If we broadly define the accuracy of assessments by how closely the total score
is to the correct total score (rather than attend to true scoring accuracy), the data indicates
we under-assessed the scenario 71 percent of the time. The correct score total was 33, so
71 percent of the assessments generated a total of 30 or less (as 31-35 would be the
acceptable range). None of the agents or case managers tested generated a score above
35, so no staff over-assessed the client’s risk level. This data suggests this scenario was
under-assessed. If staff were tested using multiple scenarios and there was a continued
trend to under-assess, this finding may warrant further consideration.
YLS/CMI Results
For the total number of assessments, the mean scoring accuracy percentage was 82
percent, with a range from 71 to 95 percent. The correct YLS/CMI score total for the
scenario used was 27. The average score produced across the department was 27, with a
range of 19 to 33. Again, very little attention should be given to the scores themselves as
they are not the measure of inter-rater reliability.
Figure 3 shows the mean scoring accuracy percentage and mean score of the YLS/CMI
total for field services districts and institutions.
Figure 3

Scoring Accuracy Percentage and Mean Scores for Field Services and

Institutions
Even if one chose to ignore the scoring accuracy percentage and erroneously elect to
define inter-rater reliability as just the score total, the data indicates that 36 of the
assessments (64%) produced a score within a range of 5. This indicates that even if the
goal of achieving true inter-rater reliability is set aside in lieu of a target of simply getting
close with the score total, the department was able to accomplish this 64 percent of the
time. Less than two-thirds of the time assessors were able to produce a risk-level score
within a range of 5 from the correct score.
Common Scoring Errors
Similar to what was found in the LSI-R data, the most commonly mis-scored questions
were not the ones that lend themselves to a great deal of subjectivity. Examples are:
Question 1.c. (Prior probation?) This question was mis-scored 55 percent of the
time as the agents/case managers mistakenly considered an offense that the client
was still under supervision for as a prior because the client was on probation when
s/he committed the present offense. The scoring guide clearly outlines that one is
only to consider cases for which the client is no longer under supervision.
Question 5.e. (Substance use linked with offenses?) This question was mis-
scored 43 percent of the time as agents/case managers mistakenly neglected to
take into account the client’s previous legal involvement associated to drinking.
Again, the scoring guide outlines that this is to be considered when assessing the
question.
It appears that departure from the parameters of the scoring guide accounts for a significant portion of the scoring errors generated in the YLS/CMI testing. While there was not the tendency to under-assess within the YLS/CMI data (about 30% under assessed risk), attention should be paid to scoring accuracy percentages. Arriving at the correct level of risk and need is more likely to result in assignment to an appropriate level of service. An assessment that generates the correct level of risk (by accident) may result in assigning the appropriate level of services to that client, though it will also result in failing to attend to his or her criminogenic needs. Conclusion/Recommendations
Staff has an interest in accurately assessing offenders. There are multiple factors that warrant consideration in efforts to increase scoring accuracy. Examples include training that must be delivered with fidelity and actively measuring the quality of the assessments. A number of recommendations have been generated as a result of this project. The most obvious surrounds policies concerning these assessment tools. Substantial amendments to those policies have been crafted and are being presented to senior administration. The substantive changes regarding quality assurance are: Replacing the previous expectation that supervisors perform quality assurance (themselves) with an expectation that they implement a peer-driven quality assurance model within their unit. Supervisors must actively be involved in facilitation of quality assurance sessions. Adding the expectation that all supervisors with direct reports who perform assessments be trained themselves in those assessment tools. Further, supervisors receive formal training in quality assurance. Adding the expectation that staff must complete all phases of assessment training prior to completing assessments. Adding the expectation that staff participate in ongoing scoring proficiency measurement testing. Adding the expectation that trainers of the assessment tools annually participate in booster trainings specific to trainers. It is noteworthy that none of these recommendations call for significant monetary resources. They do, however, require time commitments from both line staff and supervisors. The DOC made a decision 10 years ago to incorporate validated risk/need assessment tools into the delivery of correctional services. Over the course of time, these tools have played a more significant role in the delivery of services. Supervision level in the field is assigned by the score, and conditions of supervision are crafted in part based on the criminogenic needs identified by the assessment tool. In facilities, treatment bed accessibility is determined in part by the assessments, and the determination of who receives intensive supervision upon release is also driven by the assessment score. The DOC has an obligation to accurately assess the population that is served. Bibliography

Meghan Howe & Lore Joplin, National Institute of Corrections (2004). Understanding
the Risk Principle: How and Why Correctional Interventions Can Harm Low-Risk
Offenders (NIC Accession Number: period266). Retrieved January 15, 2009, from
http://www.nicic.org/pubs/2004/period266.pdf
Christopher T. Lowenkamp & Edward J. Latessa, National Institute of Corrections
(2005). Implementing Evidence-Based Practices in Community Corrections: Quality
Assurance Manual (NIC Accession Number: 021258). Retrieved January 15, 2009, from
http://nicic.org/downloads/PDF/Library/021258.pdf
Appendix A: LSI-R Baseline Testing Material

Cooper C. Risto
Case Study/Scenario
LSI-R Quality Assurance Baseline Test
Instructions: In an effort to better understand the current status regarding the scoring
accuracy of the LSI-R, DOC agents and case managers are being administered this
scoring exercise. This testing will be anonymous by person but not by institution or field
services district. Staff will be asked to complete this scoring exercise individually (no
working in groups). This narrative case study sheet along with the PSI should be used to
score an LSI-R.
Today’s Date: 08/01/08

Present Offense: See PSI

Criminal History
Cooper’s criminal history began as a juvenile when he received his first smoking citation
in 2003. Along with having to pay a fine and complete an education/awareness class, he
was suspended from school for 3 days. About a year later (2004), he was caught
shoplifting CDs from Target. This resulted in him going through a diversion program
and paying restitution. Later that same year, he and his buddies were caught breaking
into summer lake cabins. Cooper was adjudicated delinquent for 3rd Degree Burglary. He
was placed on probation and subsequently incurred a couple of violations (for smoking
pot and failing to maintain agent contact). This resulted in him completing a 21-day
program at Thistledew Camp. While at the camp, he found himself cutting wood on
more than one occasion for various misconducts.
As an adult, he pled guilty to a Misdemeanor Fleeing in 2007. He was at a party that was
busted by police. He and a handful of others attempted to run away from the scene, and
he proved to be a slower runner than one of the responding officers. In August 2007, he
was charged with a number of cabin burglaries (6 different cabins over the course of 3
weeks), but he was offered a plea to one count of Gross Misdemeanor Receiving Stolen
Property as he was very cooperative with the prosecution of his co-defendants and in
assisting with the recovery of many of the stolen items. Since being placed on probation
for that matter, he has incurred 1 probation violation for failure to complete a chemical
dependency evaluation and use of THC. Further, the present offense (Felony-Controlled
Substance Crime, 5th Degree), represents a subsequent probation violation.
Education/Employment
Cooper transferred to the local Alternative Learning Center in the middle of the 10th
grade. He did not go onto the 11th grade, nor has he made any recent efforts to obtain his
GED. He was suspended at least once for smoking.

He is employed fulltime, having worked for the same tree service (year round) for a little
over 2 years. He likes his job (got a raise last month) and has no plans to make any
changes. He spoke of his co-workers as “regular guys” with whom he likes to party.
“Never on the job, though – we might get after it at night (smoking pot/drinking), but
never on the job,” he added. His boss remains supportive of him and hopes that he will
get out on Huber/work release while serving his probationary jail time. Cooper further
indicated that his boss has had his share of legal problems and subsequently understands
that “this county will continue to screw with people for no good reason.”
His only other employment was when he worked for Johnson Roofing in the spring of
2006. He was only there about 3 weeks when he walked off the job after his boss
accused him of siphoning gas out of one of the company trucks.
Financial
Cooper indicates that though money is tight, he seems to be staying on top of things. His
rent, utilities and other living expenses consume most of his income. He manages his
money by setting aside from each paycheck the total amount needed to cover his bills and
then putting the rest in his wallet. He has not received any sort of assistance in the past
year, nor is he on any rent or medical assistance.
Family/Marital
Cooper described a pleasant childhood growing up the youngest of three children. The
self-proclaimed “black sheep” of the family, his brother and sister have never been
involved in the criminal justice system, nor were either of his parents. His parents were
killed in a plane crash about a year ago while on a mission trip (through their church).
He speaks to his siblings “every month or so,” but has grown tired of their passing
judgment on him regarding his drug and alcohol use so he generally avoids them.
He has never wed, nor does he have any children. His last (and only) long-term
relationship ended a few months ago when he caught her cheating on him. He does not
seem overly upset about this now, as he expressed contentment with living “the single
life.”
Accommodation
Cooper has been renting a basement apartment for 13 months. It is located in a quiet,
older neighborhood in town across from the elementary school. His only criticism of the
place is that he is not able to play his music as loud as he would like as the neighbors are
quick to call the police.



Leisure/Recreation
Cooper spends most of his free time “hanging out with friends,” playing video games and
watching movies. He is not involved in any organizations, clubs or churches, nor does he
attend AA/NA.
Companions
Cooper identified two people as being his closest friends, Tom and Jerry. He grew up
with and went to school with Tom. Tom is presently on supervised release after
demanding execution of sentence subsequent to a Burglary, 3rd Degree conviction. Jerry
is a former co-worker of Cooper’s. The three of them spend much of their free time
together; hanging out, watching movies, partying and playing video games.
Cooper identified a handful of pro-social acquaintances; Gary and John, both of whom he
knew from school. “Great guys, both of them,” Cooper stated. Though he spent a lot of
time with them in junior high, they “chose different paths.” He bumps into them every
now and then in town and they might stop and visit for a few minutes, but outside of that
they do not spend time together.
Alcohol/Drug
As captioned in the PSI, Cooper was drunk and high on meth at the time of the present
offense. He began drinking at the age of 14 and reported his heaviest use of alcohol as
being last summer when he would drink to the point of intoxication every weekend. He
has noticed a significant increase in his tolerance over the past year. He started smoking
pot at the age of 15 and was a regular user by age 17. He expressed his discontent as to
why marijuana was illegal. He was introduced to meth about 6 months ago (smoking)
and has been using it on a weekly basis ever since. “It helps keep me going,” he stated.
He denies any use of drugs or alcohol since the date of the offense.
Aside from the education/awareness program that he completed while on probation as a
juvenile, Cooper has not completed any formal chemical dependency (CD) treatment. A
CD assessment will be ordered as a condition of probation for the present offense. He
made mention of this in the interview, stating, “it had better not recommend treatment,
‘cause I don’t want to sit in a room with a bunch of crybabies three nights a week.”

Emotional/Personal
At the time of the interview, Cooper was a little “fidgety,” but not so much so that he was
unable to track the conversation or stood up from his seat. He seemed to calm down as
the interview ran its course. He indicated he has difficulty sleeping at night and finds
himself worrying excessively at times about things. As an adult, Cooper has never been
diagnosed with any mental health disorder, nor has he ever been placed on any
psychotropic medications. He was tested for ADD in school, which resulted in him
seeing the school counselor and taking medication (Ritalin).
Attitudes/Orientation
Cooper’s only remorse for the present offense was regarding his ill-timed departure from
the party. He wished he would have left just a little bit earlier and “this whole thing
would have been avoided.” He acknowledges that the cop was “just doing his job” but
wondered aloud why he “wasn’t out looking for some real criminals that night.”
Regarding the plea agreement and its proposed sentence (probationary disposition with
multiple conditions), Cooper stated that it was a fair deal. “Yeah, I think it’s about right.”
Cooper was on gross misdemeanor probation when he committed the present offense, and
this represents his second probation violation. He has been contacted by the agent who
supervises that file and was told he will not be facing any additional jail time. “She’s
pretty cool,” he stated.
ADULT FELONY PRE-SENTENCE INVESTIGATION
STATE OF MINNESOTA, DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS
SUPERVISOR:
PREPARED:
Joe Smith
Mike Johnson
The Honorable Bill Watson
07/31/08
C L I E N T I N F O R M A T I O N
Cooper C. Risto
ALIAS NAME:
ALIAS DOB:
ADDRESS:
COUNTY OF RESIDENCE:
BIRTHPLACE:
HEIGHT: WEIGHT:
STATE ID #:
CSTS CLIENT #:
MISC. # / TYPE:
RELIGIOUS
EYES: HAIR:
PREFERENCE:
BUILD, COMPLEXION, SCARS, MARKS OR
TATTOOS:
O F F E N S E I N F O R M A T I O N
COURT FILE #:
OFFENSE / STATUTE #:
Felony Controlled Substance Crime, 5th Degree: 152.021, S1(2) COUNTY OF CONVICTION:
VERDICT or PLEA? DATE:
PROSECUTING ATTORNEY:
Lucy Lawson
OFFENSE LEVEL:
JAIL TIME:
DEFENSE ATTORNEY:
Larry Webb
OFFENSE DATE:
WHERE OFFENSE COMMITTED:
DATE ARRESTED:
ARRESTING OFFICER:
ARRESTING AGENCY:
ACCOMPLICES:
PLEA NEGOTIATION
On 07/15/08, the defendant entered a plea of guilty to Count I (Controlled Substance
Crime, 5th Degree) with the following agreement:
1. 5 years, stay of Imposition. 2. 30 days jail. 3. $1,065 fine with Community Work Service option. 4. Complete chemical use assessment and follow all recommendations. 5. Attend a MADD Panel and pay fee. 6. Drug and alcohol restrictions. 7. Submit to random testing by probation and law enforcement. 8. Remain
OFFICIAL VERSION
On 06/04/08 at 11:45 p.m., Deputy Jones, while on routine patrol in Itasca County on
County Road 10 observed a motor vehicle traveling in his direction swerve into his lane,
nearly causing a head-on collision. Jones turned his squad around, activated his lights
and siren and proceeded to pursue the vehicle. The vehicle accelerated in speed and
was pursued by Deputy Jones for approximately 3 miles before losing control in a curve,
taking to the ditch and becoming stuck. While swerving into the ditch, the vehicle
destroyed 3 mailboxes. The driver, identified as Cooper C. Risto, exited the vehicle
while Deputy Jones approached from the rear. Risto was observed to have a minor cut
above his left eye. He was cooperative and lay on the ground per Deputy Jones’
instructions, was handcuffed and placed into custody. Deputy Jones noted a strong
odor of alcohol about Risto and further observed his eyes to be red and bloodshot and
his speech was slurred. Risto stated to Deputy Jones that he was sorry for not having
stopped but thought that he had a pretty good chance of out running him as he “knows
these roads like the back of his hand”.
Risto was transported to the Itasca County Detention Center where he was read the
Implied Consent Advisory and subsequently submitted to a breath test, which produced
a result of .24 BAC.
Prior to the towing and impound of Risto’s vehicle, an inventory search was conducted
by Deputy Jones and Deputy Anderson. Between the front seats of the car, Deputy
Jones located a small square of tinfoil with a white powdery residue on it. Further, on
the passenger seat there was a dismantled light bulb with residue on the inside. Both
the foil and the light bulb field-tested positive for methamphetamine. The items have
been submitted to the BCA for confirmation testing.
DEFENDANT’S VERSION
Though the defendant reported to this agent that he has very little memory of the
incident, he took exception to a number of points captioned within the official version.
First, he denies having swerved into the lane of the oncoming deputy. “I know how to
drive drunk,” he stated, further indicating that he would have never done something so
stupid as to call that much attention to himself. He readily acknowledged he was
intoxicated that evening, having consumed “about a 12-pack” of beer and smoking “just
a little meth” about 4 hours prior to the incident. He further stated the wished he had left
the party just a little bit earlier and “this whole thing would have been avoided.”
P R I O R R E C O R D
OFFENSE LOCATION
DATE AND DISPOSITION
(COUNTY, STATE)
GROSS / MISDEMEANOR:
03/20/07
probation, 10 days jail, fine, restitution, CD evaluation and follow recs. 01/05/08: Probation Violation; failure to complete CD eval, use of THC – 15 days jail, reinstated. TRAFFIC:
07/14/06
JUVENILE:
08/02/04 Burglary,
09/03/04: Probation, Adj. Delinquent, CD evaluation, Community Work Service (CWS), Restitution. 10/04/04 PV: Use of THC; 60 hours CWS, updated CD eval. 12/01/04 PV: Agent contact, use of THC; 21 day Thistledew Camp Endeavors Program. 07/15/05: Diversion Program, restitution. 04/20/04: Fine, Education/Awareness Program. E D U C A T I O N / T R A I N I N G
SCHOOL / ADDRESS / PHONE
COMPLETED

COMMENTS:
The defendant attended Hometown public schools through the ninth grade. He reported
having been an “average” student who struggled with attendance. He was suspended at
least once due to smoking. Upon his successful completion of Thistledew Camp, he
transferred to the local ALC and completed the 10th grade. The Defendant has taken
some of the GED pre-tests in the past yet expressed little interest in pursuing it further.
E M P L O Y M E N T / M I L I T A R Y
NAME OF EMPLOYER / ADDRESS / PHONE
TYPE OF WORK / HOURS /
EMPLOYMENT
COMMENTS:
The defendant has been working full-time for Cut-n-Run Tree Service for over two years
as a laborer. He indicates he enjoys his job and has no plans to seek different
employment. He indicated his boss is aware of his current legal situation and is hopeful
he will get out on Huber while serving his probationary jail time. “He’s a great boss,” the
defendant stated, “he’s told me that this county will continue to screw with people like me
for no good reason.” His employment at Johnson Roofing Company ended abruptly
when he was accused of siphoning gas out of a company vehicle.
F A M I L Y D A T A
RELATIONSHIP
DOB – AGE
ADDRESS / PHONE
Children
Siblings
Stepparent(s)
PERSONAL HISTORY:
The defendant was born and raised in Hometown, MN, by parents Wally and June Risto.
His parents never divorced nor separated, and he described a mostly pleasant
childhood. Heavily involved in their church, his parents were killed in a plane crash while
on a mission trip to Haiti about a year ago. His siblings, Conrad and Carmen, have
never been involved in the criminal justice system. Conrad recently graduated from
college and works for an advertising agency in the Twin Cities, while Carmen is a
software developer in Fargo. The defendant stated, “I’m the black sheep of the family,”
and reported having only minimal contact with his family. “They don’t care for the life I’m
living, and I’m sick of hearing about it from them,” he added.
The defendant has never married, nor does he have any children. His last romantic
relationship lasted about 6 months and ended when he caught her cheating on him. He
is comfortable with his being single and does not welcome the thought of a long-term
relationship at the present time.
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
The defendant indicated he has not been experiencing financial difficulties over the past
year, yet money is tight. Though he works full-time, he is scarcely able to remain current
with his bills. His rent ($550/mo.), utilities ($150/mo.) and other living expenses
consume all of his paycheck. He manages his money by setting aside from each
paycheck the amount needed to pay his bills and only placing the remaining cash in his
wallet. “If I do it any other way, I’ll spend it,” he explained. He has not received any sort
of financial assistance in the past 12 months.
CHEMICAL USE/MENTAL HEALTH / PHYSICAL HEALTH ISSUES
The defendant acknowledged both drugs (meth) and alcohol played a role in the present
offense. He had consumed approximately a 12-pack of beer and smoked meth on the
evening of his arrest. As for his chemical use history, the defendant reported having first
drank alcohol at the age of 14 and identified his period of heaviest use as last summer
when he was drinking to the point of intoxication every weekend. Regarding other
drugs, he began smoking marijuana at the age of 15 and was using pot regularly by the
age of 17. He began smoking meth about 6 months ago and stated that “it helps keep
me going” and failed to identify his use as problematic.
Aside from the education/awareness class he completed as a juvenile, the defendant
has never undergone any formal chemical dependency treatment.
Regarding other mental health issues, as an adult, the defendant has never been
diagnosed with any metal health disorder, nor has he ever been placed on any
psychotropic medications. He was tested for ADD in school (about age 14), which
resulted in him seeing the school counselor and taking medication (Ritalin) for 2 years.
FINAL ASSESSMENT
The defendant is a 20 year-old Caucasian man who appears before the court for
sentencing after entering a plea of guilty to Felony Controlled Substance Crime in the
5th Degree. The remaining counts of Misdemeanor DUI and Felony Fleeing are to be
dismissed as part of the plea agreement. This represents his first felony-level
involvement with the criminal justice system, though he is presently on probation in
Gumption County for Gross Misdemeanor Receiving Stolen Property. The present
offense represents a probation violation regarding that file (new offense and use of
meth/alcohol). It is anticipated that his probation officer, Agent Bixby, will be
recommending no additional jail time.
The defendant’s stable work history and pro-social family lend themselves to be positive
factors in contemplating his amenability to community supervision. His substance use
(and underlying beliefs and attitudes), coupled with the fact that he was on probation
when he committed the present offense, call into question his ability to succeed on
probation. The following is respectfully recommended.
RECOMMENDATION
Controlled Substance Crime, 5th Degree is a Severity Level 2 offense. With 1 Criminal
History Points, the presumptive duration would be a sentence of 12 months and 1 day.
If this sentence were executed, defendant would serve 8 months and 1 day in prison,
and would be on supervised release for 4 months.
In this case, the presumption, according to Minnesota sentencing guidelines, is that the
sentence of 12 months and 1 day, would be stayed.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of this agent that the court sentence the defendant
under a stay of imposition for 5 years with the following conditions:
30 days probationary jail time with Huber/Work Release option. 2. Pay $1,077 fines and costs with Community Work Service option. 3. Do not use, possess or purchase alcohol or controlled substances; submit to random testing and spot checks by probation and law enforcement. 4. Do not enter establishments selling or serving alcohol. 5. Do not be in the presence of anyone using alcohol or controlled substances. 6. Remain law-abiding/have general good behavior/no like violations of law. 7. Complete Rule 25 assessment and follow recommendations, including aftercare. 8. Attend MADD panel. 9. Complete DNA testing. 10. Complete cognitive skills programming as directed by agent.
GENERAL CONDITIONS
1. Obey all state and federal laws and local ordinances. 2. Report to probation agent, as directed. 3. Advise probation agent prior to making any changes in employment and/or 4. Obtain permission from probation agent before leaving the state. 5. By the next business day, notify probation agent if arrested or issued a 6. When ordered by probation agent, submit to search of offender’s person, residence or any other property under offender’s control. 7. Abstain from the illegal use or possession of controlled substances and submit to 8. Do not own, use or possess a firearm. 9. Cooperate and be truthful with probation agent in all matters. LSI-R / Cooper C. Risto
Scoring & Remediation (Total Score: 33)
Criminal History
1. Adult Prior? Yes (Two priors, the speeding citations would not count as they are
2. Two or more priors? No (He is still on probation for the gross misdemeanor
charge so it counts as a current offense.) 3. Three or more priors? No
4. Three or more present offenses? No (Two present offenses – the current Felony -
Drug charge and the Gross Misdemeanor Receiving Stolen Property charge for which he is still on probation.) 5. Arrested under age 16? Yes (Smoking citation at age 15.)
6. Incarcerated upon conviction? Yes (Placement at Thistledew Camp, jail time for
2 prior adult offenses and present offense.) 7. Escape from custody? No (No mention of escape.)
8. Punished for institutional misconduct? Yes (He had to cut wood while at
9. Ever violated probation/parole/conditions of release? Yes (Multiple PVs as
juvenile, prior PV as adult and is facing PV for present offense.) 10. Official record of assault or violence? No (No mention of any assault/violence
Employment/Education
11. Currently unemployed? No (Has held current full-time job for over two years.)
12. Frequently unemployed? No (Has held current full-time job for over two years.)
13. Never employed for a full year? No (Has held current full-time job for over two
14. Ever fired? Yes (Walked off prior job after being accused of stealing gas.)
15. Education less than regular grade 10? Yes (Completed 9th grade in main-stream
schooling, 10th grade at ALC does not count.) 16. Education less than regular grade 12? Yes
17. Ever suspended or expelled? Yes (Suspended at least once for smoking.)
18. Participation/performance? 2 (Likes his job, been there over two years, just got a
19. Peer interactions? 1 (Uses drugs with co-workers.)
20. Authority interactions? 1 (Boss, while supportive of him, empathizes with him
that “this county will continue to screw with people for no good reason.”) Financial
21. Problems? 2 (Seems to have a handle on his finances and uses a strategy to make
22. Reliance on social assistance? No

Family/Marital
23. Dissatisfaction with marital or equivalent situation? 2 or 3 (While last
relationship ended poorly, he seems content to be single, no evidence that this particular issue presents a risk for Cooper.) 24. Non-rewarding, parental? 0 (Even though mom and dad were great, they are
25. Non-rewarding, other relatives? 1 (Siblings could be considered here if he had
26. Criminal-Family/Spouse? No (He is the “black sheep.”)
Accommodation
27. Unsatisfactory? 2 (He’s been in the same apartment for 13 months, seems to meet
28. 3 or more address changes last year? No
29. High crime neighborhood? No (Quiet neighborhood, can’t even play his music
Leisure/Recreation
30. Absence of recent participation in an organized activity? Yes (Not involved in
31. Could make better use of time? 1 or 0 (Primarily passive leisure activities, not
making use of his time to address CD issues or obtain GED.) Companions
32. A social isolate? No (He has friends and associates.)
33. Some criminal acquaintances? Yes (He must be getting his meth and marijuana
34. Some criminal friends? Yes (He identified two friends that he “parties with,” one
35. Few anti-criminal acquaintances? Yes (Although he identified two pro-social
individuals, he does not spend any time with them.) 36. Few anti-criminal friends? Yes (If 35 is YES, 36 must be scored YES.)
Alcohol/Drug Problem
37. Alcohol problem, ever? Yes
38. Drug problem, ever? Yes
39. Alcohol problem, currently? 1 or 0 (.24 BAC upon arrest.)
40. Drug problem, currently? 1 or 0 (Weekly meth use for past 6 months, regular
41. Law violations? Yes (PVs and present offense.)
42. Marital/Family? Yes (Siblings get after him about his use.)
43. School/Work? No (Nothing presented suggesting that it has impacted work.)
44. Medical? No (Nothing presented.)
45. Other indicators? Yes (Increased tolerance.)
Emotional/Personal
46. Moderate interference? Yes (Anxiety – insomnia, worrying.)
47. Severe interference? No (He is not actively psychotic.)
48. Mental health treatment, past? Yes (ADD as child; saw therapist and was placed
49. Mental health treatment, present? Yes (CD evaluation is part of plea agreement
and one can reasonably expect formal treatment will be recommended.) 50. Psychological assessment indicated? Yes (Anxiety)
Attitudes/Orientation
51. Supportive of crime? 1 (I was in the wrong place at the wrong time.)
52. Unfavorable toward convention? 1 (He demonstrates some pro-social activities
– working full-time for 2 years – yet also is supportive of some criminal behaviors – drug use.) 53. Poor, toward sentence? No (He stated it is a fair deal.)
54. Poor, toward supervision? Yes (He has incurred multiple PVs in the recent past,
committed the present offense while on probation, and is unwilling to seek assistance for obvious problems – CD treatment.) Appendix B: YLS/CMI Baseline Testing Material
Callie Larson
Case Study/Scenario
YLS-I Quality Assurance Baseline Test
Instructions: In an effort to better understand the scoring accuracy of the YLS-I, DOC
corrections agents and case managers are being administered this scoring exercise. This
testing will be anonymous by person, but not by institution or field services district. Staff
will be asked to complete this scoring exercise individually (no working in groups). This
narrative case study sheet along with the PDI should be used to score an YLS-I.
Today’s Date: Today

Present Offense: See Pre-Dispositional Report

Criminal History
Callie’s criminal history began at age 12 when she was caught smoking at school and
issued a citation by the school liaison officer. She completed tobacco diversion and was
suspended from school for 3 days. At age 13 she was caught selling her medication to
kids at school and was charged with a Controlled Substance Crime in the 2nd Degree.
Callie was adjudicated delinquent for that offense and was placed on supervised
probation. She also had a placement of 28 days in a non-secure facility stayed on the
condition that she have no violations of probation. Just prior to her 14th birthday, Callie
was adjudicated a petty alcohol offender for the offense of Minor Consume and
adjudicated delinquent for shoplifting. Her 28-day program was executed as a
consequence for violating her probation. Approximately one month after getting out of
her 28-day program, Callie was caught driving a stolen vehicle and was intoxicated.
Callie was charged and adjudicated delinquent for the offense of Felony Theft of a Motor
Vehicle and adjudicated a petty alcohol offender for the Minor Consume. A probation
violation was also addressed at the time of disposition; Callie was ordered to complete 10
hours of community work service as a consequence. The court stayed a long-term
residential placement and gave her 100 hours of community work service to complete.
Education/Employment
Callie is currently enrolled in the 8th grade at Oh-Joy Middle School. She has been
suspended for smoking on school grounds and being disrespectful to the principal and her
teachers. School records indicate Callie is a very smart girl but doesn’t turn in her
homework and leaves her tests blank. Callie has been diagnosed with ADHD and was
previously on Ritalin which seemed to help her concentrate. After getting caught selling
her medication at school, her doctor switched her medication to Strattera which according
to Callie doesn’t work as well. Callie does not currently have an individual education
plan (IEP) but school officials state if she is not expelled they will attempt to start an IEP
with EBD (Emotionally Behaviorally Disturbed) findings. Callie is currently suspended
pending an expulsion hearing for her current offense of Possession of a Weapon on
School Grounds. Callie stated she brought the knife to school because she had been
getting harassed from a group of girls threatening to beat her up.
Family Circumstances/Parenting
Callie has been residing with her mother the majority of her life. Callie’s parents
divorced when her father went to prison in Wisconsin on drug charges. Callie was sent to
live with father, who had recently been released from prison, after her Controlled
Substance Crime but called her mother begging to come home after two months stating
she had been assaulted at a party. According to Callie, her father allows her to drink and
do drugs anytime she wants as long as she shares with him. Callie stated she has used
meth, marijuana, cocaine and alcohol with her father on numerous occasions. Callie’s
mother is relatively stable and now remarried. Callie doesn’t care for her stepfather but
tolerates him because he is good to her mom. Callie and her mother do have their
differences but they love each other. Mom claims she was like Callie as a kid and went
through the court system too, including residing in a group home for a few months.
Callie states that her mom keeps a pretty close eye on her and usually knows where she is
at all times. Callie does state mom is much easier on her than her stepfather and she can
usually talk mom into not telling stepdad about things she has done. Callie thinks her
stepfather has way too many rules and she is required to do much more work than her
younger sister. Callie has been grounded at least 3 times in the last month for not
following her stepfather’s rules about household chores. Callie and her younger sister,
Zoe, age 12, do not get along very well and have had physical fights. They do get along
when it comes to challenging their stepfather about rules. Callie’s mom works at Wal-
Mart part-time and stepdad works at a well drilling company full-time.
Peer Relations
Callie has many friends and is quite outgoing. She admits she tends to “get into everyone
else’s drama.” Callie’s best friends, Shayna and Kyra, are both on probation for assaults
at school. Most of Callie’s extended group of friends have had some police involvement.
Callie states most of her friends use drugs and alcohol and go to parties on the weekends.
Callie did mention that she has one friend, Shelly, who lives across the street from them
but attends a different school, who has never been in trouble and is a “good kid.” Callie
and her friends are not involved in any gangs but they do know gang members from
school. Callie denies being in a relationship at the moment.
Substance Abuse
Callie stated her first use of alcohol was at age 9 when she was staying at a friend’s
house. She stated she first tried marijuana at age 10 with an uncle from her dad’s side of
the family. Callie admits to having used meth, marijuana, cocaine and alcohol with her
father. She also admits to using mushrooms, which according to her are not a drug
because they are all natural; acid; crack; and huffing. Callie denies using alcohol since
her last drinking offense and states it is too hard to get alcohol. Callie stated when she
uses she is usually with friends or her dad. Callie says she uses a few time a week unless
she is stressed out, then she uses more. Callie insists she doesn’t need to use and can stop
whenever she wants.
Leisure/Recreation
Callie used to be involved in sports in elementary school but states she hasn’t been in
anything since coming back from her dad’s house. She did attend a youth group with her
friend Shelly one time and had fun. Callie uses her free time to hang out at the mall,
watch television and listen to music. Callie does enjoy drawing and is proud of her art
work.
Personality/Behavior
Callie describes herself as outgoing and states she used to be more of a jock but now
doesn’t care about sports. Callie says she is a good friend and good person but she just
“makes bad choices.” When angry, Callie usually just yells and then wants to be alone.
She has been in physical fights with her sister but not with people outside her family.
Callie does have trouble concentrating and doesn’t like her current medication because it
doesn’t work as well as Ritalin. Callie describes herself as easy-going but then laughs and
says “an easy-going drama queen.” Callie admits that at times she feels bad about how
things are going with her life, especially her relationship with her stepfather. Callie is
depressed at times and has thought about suicide. She states this started happening after
she was assaulted while with her father. When asked to discuss the assault further, Callie
shuts down and will not discuss it.
Attitudes, Values, Beliefs

Callie feels her crime was justified. She states “no one was going to help me so I had to
protect myself.” Callie thinks she was treated fairly by the court and the police but says
she will make her final decision after she is sentenced. According to Callie, there are
times when it is okay to break the law, “if it means you are protecting yourself or
someone you love.”
STATE OF MINNESOTA
DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS
JUVENILE PRE-DISPOSITIONAL REPORT
Possession of Dangerous Weapon on School
CURRENT SITUATION
The subject last appeared in Timbuktu County Court on August 14, 2008. At that time,
the subject entered a plea of guilty to the offense of Felony Possession of a Dangerous
Weapon on School Grounds. The court ordered the Department of Corrections to
complete a pre-dispositional report with recommendations to the court, and disposition
was scheduled for September 16, 2008.

CURRENT OFFENSE (Official Version): Possession of a Dangerous Weapon on
School Grounds:
Officer Jones received a report from the Oh-Joy Middle School that a student, the subject,
was found in possession of a large knife. Officer Jones responded to the middle school
where he met with the principal Jennifer Swanson. Ms. Swanson reported that a student
came to her stating that the subject had a large knife in her backpack and was going to
use it against some girls that had been threatening her. Ms. Swanson then called the
subject to the office. Ms. Swanson and the subject then went to the lockers and retrieved
the backpack out of locker 313, which is registered to the subject. Once back in Ms.
Swanson’s office, Ms. Swanson opened the backpack and pulled out a large knife. The
subject admitted that the backpack belonged to her and that she had brought the knife to
school for protection.
Officer Jones then interviewed the subject who stated that three girls had been
threatening her all year and had stated they were going to beat her up before the end of
the school year. The subject stated she has been bringing the knife to school for the past
two days and had shown it to some students that morning. Officer Jones took custody of
the knife and measured and photographed it. The knife blade was approximately 10
inches long with a 4-inch handle.
The subject was taken into custody and placed in the juvenile detention facility. The
knife was placed in the evidence locker at the police station.
OFFENDER’S VERSION
The subject states she did bring the knife to school for protection as she feared for her
own safety. The subject went on to state that she knew it was wrong to bring the knife to
school but she didn’t feel that school staff could protect her. The subject stated she didn’t
intend to use it unless she needed to.
PRIOR RECORD:

Date of Offense Offense/Level Location
(County,
Date and Disposition
Adjudicated delinquent. Supervised probation. 100 hours of csw. Long-term residential program stayed. Adjudicated a petty alcohol offender. Supervised probation. Adjudicated a petty alcohol offender. Supervised probation. Adjudicated delinquent. Supervised probation. 10 hours csw. Supervised probation. 50 hours csw. 28 day placement stayed. 28 day placement executed 01/08/2007 as result of new theft offense. The subject successfully completed tobacco diversion on 02/16/2005.

PLACEMENT HISTORY
The subject has been placed into detention on three occasions, one time following the
controlled substance crime, one time for a probation violation and then more recently for
her current offense. The subject has also completed the 28-day program at the Long Way
From Home Detention Center. The subject stated she did well in the program and didn’t
mind being there except that the food was bad. Reports from the facility indicate she
followed the majority of the rules but did tend to get involved with other people’s issues.
FAMILY HISTORY
The subject was born on January 1, 1993, to Sherry and Gary Larson in Small Town,
Wisconsin. The subject has been residing with her mother the majority of her life. The
subject’s parents divorced when her father went to prison in Wisconsin on drug charges.
The subject was sent to live with her father, who had recently been released from prison,
after her controlled substance crime but called her mother begging to come home after
two months stating she had been assaulted at a party. According to the subject, her father
allows her to drink and do drugs anytime she wants as long as she shares with him. She
went on to state that she has used meth, marijuana, cocaine and alcohol with her father on
numerous occasions. The subject’s mother is relatively stable and is now remarried. The
subject doesn’t care for her stepfather but tolerates him because he is good to her mom.
The subject and her mother do have their differences but they love each other. Mom
claims she was like her daughter as a kid and went through the court system too,
including residing in a group home for a few months. The subject states her mom keeps a
pretty close eye on her and usually knows where she is at all times but that mom is a lot
easier on her than her stepfather is. She went on to state that she can usually talk mom
into not telling stepdad about something she has done. The subject thinks her stepfather
has way too many rules and she is required to do much more work than her younger
sister. She has been grounded at least 3 times in the last month for not following her
stepfather’s rules about household chores. The subject and her younger sister, Zoe, age
12, do not get along very well and have had physical fights. They do get along when it
comes to challenging their stepfather about rules. The subject’s mother works at Wal-
Mart part-time, and her stepfather works at a well drilling company full-time.
EDUCATION/EMPLOYMENT
The subject is currently enrolled in the 8th grade at Oh-Joy Middle School. She has been
suspended for smoking on school grounds by the buses and for being disrespectful to the
principal and her teachers. School records indicate the subject is a smart girl but doesn’t
turn in her homework and leaves her tests blank. The subject has been diagnosed with
ADHD and was previously on Ritalin, which seemed to help her concentrate. After being
caught selling her medication at school, her doctor switched her medication to Strattera
which, according to her, doesn’t work as well. The subject does not currently have an IEP
but school officials state if she is not expelled they will attempt to start an IEP with EBD
(Emotionally Behaviorally Disturbed) findings. The subject is currently suspended
pending an expulsion hearing for her current offense of Possession of a Weapon on
School Grounds. The subject stated she brought the knife to school because she had been
getting harassed by a group of girls who were threatening to beat her up.
PEER RELATIONS
The subject has many friends and is quite outgoing. She admits she tends to “get into
everyone else’s drama.” The subject’s best friends are both on probation for assaults at
school. Most of her extended group of friends have had some police involvement. The
subject states that most of her friends use drugs and alcohol and go to parties on the
weekends. The subject did mention she has one friend who lives across the street from
her but attends a different school. The subject states her neighbor has never been in
trouble and is a “good kid.” The subject and her friends are not involved in any gangs
but they do know gang members from school. The subject denies being in a relationship
at the moment.

SUBSTANCE ABUSE
The subject stated her first use of alcohol was at age 9 when she was staying at a friend’s
house. She stated she first tried marijuana at age 10 with an uncle from her dad’s side of
the family. The subject admits to having used meth, marijuana, cocaine and alcohol with
her father. She also admits to using mushrooms, which according to her are not a drug
because they are all natural; acid; crack; and huffing. The subject denies using alcohol
since her last drinking offense and states it is too hard to get alcohol. The subject stated
that when she uses she is usually with friends or her dad. The subject states she uses a
few times a week, more if she is stressed out. The subject insists she doesn’t need to use
and can stop whenever she wants.
LEISURE RECREATION
The subject used to be involved in sports in elementary school but states she hasn’t been
in anything since coming back from her dad’s house. She did attend a youth group with
her friend Shelly one time and had fun. The subject uses her free time to hang out at the
mall, watching television and listening to music. The subject does enjoy drawing and is
proud of her art work.
PERSONALITY/BEHAVIOR
The subject describes herself as outgoing and states she used to be more of a jock but
now doesn’t care about sports. The subject says she is a good friend and a good person
but she just “makes bad choices.” When angry she usually just yells and then wants to be
alone. She has been in physical fights with her sister but not with people outside her
family. The subject does have trouble concentrating and doesn’t like her current
medication because it doesn’t work as well as Ritalin. She describes herself as easygoing
but then laughs and says “an easygoing drama queen.” The subject admits that at times
she feels bad about how things are going with her life, especially her relationship with her
stepfather. The subject is depressed at times and has thought about suicide. She states
this started happening after she was assaulted while with her father. When asked to
discuss the assault further, the subject shuts down and will not discuss it.

ATTITUDES/ORIENTATION
The subject feels her crime was justified. She states “no one was going to help me so I
had to protect myself.” The subject thinks she was treated fairly by the court and the
police, but says she will make her final decision after she is sentenced. According to the
subject there are times when it is okay to break the law “if it means you are protecting
yourself or someone you love.”
FINAL ASSESSMENT
The subject is a 15 year-old female who is before the Court for her 3rd felony-level
offense. The subject has previously completed a 28-day non-secure program and was
compliant with programming. The subject resides with her mother and stepfather and
appears to have somewhat of a stable home environment. The subject’s mother is willing
to do whatever it takes to help her daughter stay out of trouble. The subject is facing
expulsion from the Oh-Joy Middle School due to her current offense of Felony
Possession of a Dangerous Weapon on School Grounds.

Community Safety
Community safety can best be addressed by placing the subject on supervised
probation and long-term residential programming.


Restorative Accountability
The subject should be required to write a letter of apology to school staff and
students. The subject should also be required to complete 100 community
work service hours.
Competency Development
The subject would benefit from individual counseling and completion of a
Rule 25 assessment. The subject reports a large amount of drug use for her
young age. The subject should also be required to complete Thinking for
Change cognitive programming to assist her with making better choices.
RECOMMENDATIONS
It is respectfully recommended that the subject be adjudicated delinquent for the offense
of Felony Possession of a Dangerous Weapon on School Grounds and her custody be
transferred to Timbuktu County Human Services for placement into and successful
completion of the Long Way From Home residential program. It is also recommended
that the subject be placed on supervised probation with the following special conditions:
1. Comply with all rules and conditions of probation. 2. Complete 100 hours of community work service. 3. Complete a Rule 25 assessment and follow all recommendations. 4. Cooperate with individual counseling. 5. Possess no weapons, including knives. 6. Complete the Thinking for Change program. 7. Have no same or similar offenses. 8. Submit to random testing of blood, breath or urine at the request of law 9. Do not use, possess or consume alcohol or controlled substance. 10. Remain law-abiding. Respectfully Submitted, Sandy Beach Corrections Agent cc: Prosecuting Callie Larson
YLS
Scoring & Remediation (Total Score: 27)
1. Prior and Current Offenses/Dispositions:
a. 3 or more prior convictions? Yes (3 prior delinquencies- Theft of a Motor
Vehicle, Misdemeanor Theft and Controlled Substance Crime) b. 2 or more prior failures to comply? Yes (2-violation for Minor Consume and
shoplifting; after 28-day program she failed to remain law abiding - Theft of a Motor Vehicle and Minor Consume) c. Prior probation? No (Has never completed probation)
d. Prior custody? Yes (28-day program in non-secure)
e. 3 or more current convictions? No (only one new offense)
2. Family Circumstances/Parenting:
a. Inadequate supervision? No (mom “keeps a pretty close eye on her”)
b. Difficulty in controlling behavior? Yes (she consistently disobeys stepfather’s
c. Inappropriate discipline? No (she has been grounded 3 times in the last month
d. Inconsistent parenting? Yes (mom is much more lenient than stepdad)
e. Poor relationship/father-youth? Yes (she does not like her stepfather - argues
f. Poor relationship/mother-youth? No (“Callie and her mother have their
differences but they love each other”) 3. Education/Employment:
a. Disruptive classroom behavior? Yes (current offense involved a weapon in
b. Disruptive behavior on school property? Yes (smoking on school grounds)
c. Low achievement? Yes (“smart girl but doesn’t turn in her homework and
d. Problems with peers? Yes (girls wanting to beat her up)
e. Problems with teachers? Yes (disrespectful to teachers)
f. Truancy? No (has not skipped school)
g. Unemployed/not seeking employment? Yes (she is 15 and could be working
4. Peer Relations:
a. Some anti-social acquaintances? Yes (friends on probation)
b. Some anti-social friends? Yes (friends on probation)
c. No or few positive acquaintances? Yes (only one positive friend - must be
d. No or few positive friends? Yes (only one positive friend - must be two)
5. Substance Abuse:
a. Occasional drug use? Yes (due to 5b being scored)
b. Chronic drug use? Yes (marijuana “a few times a week”)
c. Chronic alcohol use? No (cannot get anyone to buy)
d. Substance use interferes with life? Yes (uses with friends, mom and her argue
e. Substance use linked with offenses? Yes (prior use indicates possible

6. Leisure/Recreation:
a. Limited organized participation? Yes (no organized activities)
b. Could make better use of time? Yes (watching television, listening to music,
c. No personal interests? No (Drawing)
7. Personality/Behavior:
a. Inflated self-esteem? No (does not appear to be an issue)
b. Physically aggressive? Yes (has had fights with sister)
c. Tantrums? No (does yell when mad but not to excess then wants to be alone)
d. Short attention span? Yes (ADHD meds not working)
e. Poor frustration tolerance? No (describes herself as easygoing)
f. Inadequate guilt feelings? Yes (states that she had to protect herself)
g. Verbally aggressive? No (no indication of any verbal aggressiveness)
8. Attitudes/Orientation:
a. Antisocial/pro-criminal attitudes? Yes (“no one was going to help me so I had
b. Not seeking help? Yes (in regard to CD issues, “I can quit on my own”)
c. Actively rejecting help? No (no interventions offered at this time)
d. Defies authority? Yes (defies parents, principal and school teachers)
e. Callous, little concern for others? No (no indication of any issues with this

Source: http://www.doc.state.mn.us/pages/files/large-files/Publications/06-09QualityAssuranceWorkgroupReport.pdf