Probation/Parole

Parole is the conditional release from incarceration after serving part of a sentence, either from a state or county facility. Formal probation is a sentence releasing a minor into the community, in lieu of confinement, but under supervision of a probation officer.

CYA is responsible for parole supervision of those who are released from CYA facilities, and the county Probation Department monitors those on probation, or on parole from a county facility.

If a juvenile violates his/her conditions of parole, he/she may be returned to the state or county detention facility. Because of overcrowding at local juvenile halls, violations such as truancy or curfew violation, may not be serious enough to warrant the return of the minor to juvenile hall. Commission of another crime while on probation, even though a misdemeanor offense, will generally result in detention.

Recidivism in the Juvenile Justice System is defined as either return to incarceration for a violation of the terms of release, or recommitment for a new offense. Recidivism is usually defined by the public as committment of another crime.

CYA and some local jurisdictions increasingly use an electronic monitoring program (emp) for youths who are released before adjudication or on parole. This is an ankle-bracelet tracking system which allows a youth to attend school, go to a job or be confined at home but assures his compliance with the terms of probation or parole.

Issues

1. Due to extremely large caseloads, probation and parole officers lack time to adequately monitor and counsel individuals. Some minors have only phone contact with those who supervise them. Are there more effective ways of confirming compliance with parole conditions and providing better control?

2. Since juvenile halls are too crowded for incarceration for violations of parole or probation, should there be other sanctions for such violations?

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