What Is the Meaning of Probation & Parole?

Under probation and parole, offenders receive community supervision.

Community supervision, also known as supervised release, occurs when an offender is granted probation or parole. The defendant may receive probation instead of prison at sentencing. Paroled offenders receive early release from prison.

History

John Augustus, considered the father of probation, bailed out more than 1,100 men, women and children by 1852. In 1878, Massachusetts enacted the first legislation mandating a state probation department. In 1910, the federal government passed the first parole laws. All states now have some form of probation and parole.

Significance

Probation and parole provide offenders a way to contribute to the community and become productive members of society. Community supervision prevents jail and detention facility overcrowding and keeps taxes down in the area of public safety.

Types

Court or summary probation means the court supervises the defendant, as opposed to standard probation, where the defendant reports to a probation officer. Intensive probation is like house arrest. Some individuals are monitored electronically. Parole operates along the same guidelines as standard probation.

Conditions of Release

Offenders must abide by specific conditions of release, including completing any counseling and community service hours, working, not leaving the state and not possessing weapons.

Revocation

Should an offender violate community supervision, the probation/parole officer will try to intervene. If the defendant again sees the judge, several punishments could be imposed, including enhanced terms, longer supervision periods, jail or prison.

References

• New York State, Division of Probation and Correctional Alternatives: History of Probation
• The United States Department of Justice: History of the Federal Parole System