Frequently Asked Questions
(FAQs)

Q. Is probation only a "slap on the wrist," devoid of punitive and rehabilitative value?

A.

No. Probation requires offenders to be responsible, holds offenders accountable and can include many rehabilitative components. Recent research has shown that community supervision is effective at reducing rates of rearrest when it is properly funded and able to combine surveillance with treatment, education and employment training. The punitive value of probation is revealed by the fact that many offenders, when given the option, would rather be put in prison than deal with the demands that are placed on them when they are supervised in the community. This is especially true when considering such programs as intensive probation supervision.