Frequently Asked Questions
(FAQs)

Q. Aren't offenders "getting off easy" by being sent to the Social Service Department instead of jail?

A.

This comes from the perspective that all offenders need to be punished by going to jail. First and foremost, the goal is to ensure public safety. Probation and court services have the capacity and authority to hold offenders accountable for their actions. If the goal is to change the offender into a law-abiding member of society, this can be achieved with strict and effective supervision. The offender is required to make restitution to the individual or community harmed by his or her offense. Offenders also establish partnerships with community resources that provide educational and employment mentoring opportunities and substance abuse counseling. These types of intervention strategies prepare offenders for useful citizenship and help them to become productive and positive members of society.