When most people think of having to deal with probation and parole officers, they might think of simply having to report into the office to have a normal check-in interview. That is only one instance in which a person who is involved in the criminal justice system might have to deal with the Department of Probation and Parole. This department handles a variety of other duties that can affect defendants, probationers and parolees.
The DPP can be called in before a defendant is sentenced to conduct an analysis of a defendant. The information is then used to help the judge during the sentencing phase of a case.
If a person from another jurisdiction is considering a move into Maryland and is on parole or probation, the DPP is responsible for determining if the move is suitable based on a variety of information. For example, the DPP looks into the residential status of the person who is moving, as well as the employment of the person.
In some cases, the DPP can help people who are seeking a reconsideration of their sentence. A post-sentence review can be conducted by the DPP if a judge or a judicial panel requests a review. Additionally, the DPP can also be used if a person is seeking executive clemency.
Anyone who is on probation or parole should make sure that he or she is working with the probation or parole officer assigned to his or her case. While probation and parole violations can lead to new charges, those violations can also affect some of the help that a probation or parole officer can provide.
Source: Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, “Investigations,” accessed Sep. 09, 2015