Probation/Parole

Question 1

Goals of Probation

Answer 1

Goal: retain control of criminal offender while using community programs to help rehabilitate them

Most probationers are sentenced to confinement but then immediately have their sentences suspended and placed in the custody of a probation officer.

Question 2

Probation is

Answer 2

A court ordered sanction where a sentence of imprisonment is suspended.
Conditional freedom granted by a judge to a convicted offender, as long as the person meets certain conditions of behavior.

Question 3

First Signs of Probation

Answer 3

14th Century: English courts established the practice of “binding over for good behavior” where offenders would be entrusted into the custody of willing citizens

In America, John Augustus is recognized as the first probation officer is the world.

By 1925, all 48 states adopted probation legislation.

Question 4

Probation Stats

Answer 4

Probation is the most common form of criminal sentencing in the U.S.

20-60 percent of those found guilty of crime are sentenced to some form of probation.

As of Jan 1, 2011, 58% of all offenders are under correctional supervision in the U.S.

In 1980, slightly 1 million offenders were supervised yearly on probation.
Today there are about 4.1 million…300% increase.

Question 5

Percentages of Crimes placed on probation

Answer 5

5% of ppl convicted of homicide were placed on probation.
21% convicted sex offenders
12% convicted robbers
30% convicted aggravated assault

Question 6

States and Probation Laws

Answer 6

North Dakota has smallest probationary PPP (4206)

Texas reports 426208

Question 7

Reentry Rates

Answer 7

16% of those discharged from supervision were incarcerated because of a rule violation or new offense.

3% absconded

10% had probation revoked without ordered to serve time.

Question 8

General Probation Conditions

Answer 8

Apply to all probationers in a given jurisdiction.

Probationers are required to pay a fine to the court designated to reimburse victims for damages and to pay lawyers’ fees and other costs

Question 9

Specific Probation Conditions

Answer 9

Mandated by judge if he feels probationer needs special guidance or control
-depends on nature of offense

Question 10

Parole

Answer 10

Supervised early release of inmates from correctional confinement

Purpose is the return offenders gradually to productive lives.

Can act as a stimulus for positive behavioral change by offering early release.

Question 11

Probation and Parole Differences

Answer 11

• Probationers are avoiding time in jail or prison
• Probation is a sentencing option available to a judge
• Probation is a sentencing strategy
• Parolees have already been incarcerated.
• Parole results from an administrative decision
• Parole is a corrections strategy

Question 12

Parole Decision-Making Mechanisms

Answer 12

Parole Boards
Mandatory Parole/Statutory Decrees
Discretionary Release
Medical Release

Question 13

Parole Violations

Answer 13

A parolee doesn’t conform to the conditions of their parole which leads to parole revocation

Question 14

Disadvantages

Answer 14

Poses risk to community
Increased social costs
Relative lack of punishment

Question 15

Advantages

Answer 15

• Lower Costs
• Increased employment
• Contribution to free economy by released convicts
• Restitution
• Community support
• Community service
• Opportunity for rehabilitation