Court-ordered community service is widely used as an alternative to incarceration, but a new University of Georgia study suggests it often fails to achieve its intended goals of reducing costs and promoting rehabilitation.
Researchers found that community service frequently shifts the burden to nonprofit organizations, which must supervise and train participants with limited resources.
Many individuals also face obstacles completing their required hours, including transportation issues, childcare responsibilities, and work conflicts.
Lead author Rebecca Nesbit, a professor in UGA's School of Public and International Affairs, said community service can be effective but only under the right conditions.
Participants assigned meaningful work with supportive organizations were more likely to stay involved, with some returning as volunteers or securing employment.
Rather than eliminating court-ordered community service, researchers recommend redesigning programs to better match individuals with opportunities while considering personal circumstances and providing greater flexibility.
