U.S. Probation Officer

Job Title

Investigation Unit - A USPO in this department assists in the administration of justice through investigations and reports to the court during the pretrial and presentence phases of the judicial process. As a pretrial investigator, the Officer is responsible for providing meaningful assistance to the U.S. District Court in its deliberations and decisions concerning pretrial release of defendants accused of violating federal statutes. For presentence investigations, the Officer is responsible for investigating and assisting the Court with recommendations for sentencing of individuals convicted of federal offenses. The preparation of these investigative reports requires interviewing defendants and their families; investigating the offense, prior record, and financial status of the individual; and contacting law enforcement agencies, attorneys, victims of the crimes, schools, etc. The purpose of these activities is to ascertain the defendant's background, assess the probability of future criminal behavior, calculate profit from, and any restitution owed for, the offense, and to determine the defendant's ability to pay fines or make restitution. During the presentence phase, officers apply U.S. Sentencing Commission guidelines and case law; decide the appropriate course of action after analyzing any objections to the presentence report; resolve disputed issues; make written sentencing recommendations to the Court; and appear at hearings to assist as needed.

Supervision Unit - A USPO supervises individuals under pretrial and post-conviction supervision to maximize adherence to imposed court-ordered conditions, reduce risk to the community, and to provide correctional treatment. The Officer maintains personal contact through office and community visits, and investigates employment, sources of income, lifestyle and associates to assess risk and compliance. Engages clients through cognitive based curriculum to encourage and support prosocial behaviors. Utilizes Motivational Interviewing techniques to enhance clients' intrinsic motivation to change. Responsible for detection of substance abuse and through assessment and counseling implements the necessary treatment or violation proceedings. Makes referrals to appropriate outside agencies such as medical, mental, and drug treatment facilities, and job readiness programs. Initiates contacts with, replies to, and seeks information from organizations and persons such as the U.S. Parole Commission, U.S. Bureau of Prisons, and attorneys concerning clients' behavior and conditions of supervision. Detects and investigates violations and implements appropriate corrective alternatives and sanctions. Reports violations of the supervision conditions to the appropriate authorities. Prepares detailed reports, which may include application of U.S. Sentencing Commission revocation guidelines. Makes recommendations for disposition. Testifies at court or parole hearings. Conducts investigation of possible new criminal activity and other violations as required. Maintains a written record of case activity within the established case management program.