Exam 1: What Is Corrections

Correct Answer:

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(1) Probation is a court-ordered sanction that allows a person convicted of a crime to remain in the community under the supervision of a probation officer, instead of serving time in prison. The individual must adhere to specific conditions set by the court, such as regularly reporting to their probation officer, attending counseling or treatment programs, and refraining from criminal behavior.

(2) Parole, on the other hand, is the supervised release of a prisoner before the completion of their sentence. It is granted by a parole board and typically involves similar conditions to probation, such as reporting to a parole officer and following specific guidelines.

The major similarity between probation and parole is that both involve supervision by a designated authority and adherence to specific conditions. However, the key difference lies in the timing of the sanction - probation is imposed as an alternative to incarceration, while parole is granted after a period of imprisonment.

In the United States, both probation and parole are commonly used as alternatives to incarceration, particularly for non-violent offenders or those with low-level offenses. These sanctions allow individuals to remain in the community while still being held accountable for their actions. They also aim to reduce prison overcrowding and provide opportunities for rehabilitation and reintegration into society. However, the specific use of probation and parole can vary by state and jurisdiction, with some areas placing a greater emphasis on these alternatives to incarceration than others.