W. Lamet

Unknown, Unloved? Public Opinion on and Knowledge of Suspended Sentences in the Netherlands

Public opinion research shows that the general public tends to perceive noncustodial sanctions, such as suspended sentences, as too lenient while being largely ignorant about their nature. In two studies among representative samples of the Dutch population, the authors examine public opinion about and knowledge of suspended sentences in the Netherlands. Findings suggest that knowledge of suspended sentences is positively related to their perceived punitiveness and beliefs in their effectiveness. Furthermore, opinions about suspended sentences are related to general penal attitudes. More punitive attitudes translate into less favorable opinions. Finally, providing information about suspended sentences can lead to more positive attitudes and greater belief in their effectiveness.

Social Bonds Under Supervision Associating Social Bonds of Probationers With Supervision Failure

Little is known about the role of social bonds and criminal bonds in relation to probation supervision failure. This study examined probation supervision failure in a sample of 13,091 discharged adult probationers in the Netherlands. We examined the relationship between supervision failure and probationers’ demographic and criminal history factors, social bonds, and criminal bonds. As was hypothesized, probationers with weak conventional social bonds were more likely to fail their probation supervision program than probationers with strong social bonds. Probationers with strong criminal bonds or weak criminal bonds did not differ significantly with respect to their supervision outcome. However, probationers with weak involvement in conventional ties (e.g., work, school) and with strong criminal ties were particularly at risk of failing their supervision. These findings advance current knowledge on factors associated with probation supervision failure and may have important implications for probation practice.

Exploring public support for suspended sentences in the Netherlands

Using data from a representative sample of the Dutch population (n = 656), we examined to what extent confidence in the criminal justice system, punitive penal attitudes and political orientation relate to public support for suspended sentences. Mediation and moderation analyses were done to further explore the dynamics behind public support for suspended sentences. Results showed that confidence in the criminal justice system, punitive penal attitudes and political orientation were related to public support for suspended sentences. In addition, support was found for our mediation and moderation hypothesis. In our conclusion we illustrate the importance of examining these factors in determining public support for suspended sentences.