Program and Service Needs of Federally Incarcerated Métis ...

Profile of Métis Offenders
Findings indicated that Métis offenders in Saskatchewan were young, uneducated and
unemployed at the time of arrest. Furthermore, Métis offenders had extensive criminal
backgrounds, violent criminal offence profiles and demonstrated need in several
criminogenic areas (i.e., personal/emotional difficulties, substance abuse, employment
and criminal associates). While the profile of Métis offenders appears similar to the
profile of First Nations offenders, there were some important differences between Métis
and non-Aboriginal offenders. Greater proportions demonstrated high overall need and
need for substance abuse programming. Furthermore, Métis offenders were more likely
to be rated as having low potential for successful community reintegration in
comparison to non-Aboriginal offenders.
Despite various similarities between Métis and First Nations offenders, findings
demonstrated that Métis offenders were less likely to speak an Aboriginal language and
more likely to have grown up in an urban center. Results appear to suggest that while
Métis and First Nations offenders may benefit from similar correctional programs, Métis
offenders may require interventions tailored to their unique cultural experiences and
environmental influences.
Program Participation
Over three-quarters of Métis offenders reported being involved in institutional programs.
Most of these programs were oriented towards substance abuse, anger
management/family violence and cognitive skills. Large proportions reported
completing programs. Smaller proportions were involved in Aboriginal and Métisspecific
programs. In general, offenders found correctional programming to be useful.
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