Do you think probation serves a purpose? Or is it just punitive—punishment on top of punishment? Why?

 

As we look at sentencing alternatives this week, let’s examine one option that people don’t often consider: probation. While some might not think of it as such, probation is a sentence. The terms and conditions of probation can actually be quite difficult—so much so that, in some cases, probationers become paranoid. They feel that their probation officer is just looking for an excuse, any excuse, to violate them. One of the unfortunate realities of probation is that for many people it would have been easier in some ways just to go to jail.

Read the article, “

Good News: You Got Probation, Not Jail. Bad News: You’re Going to Jail Anyway

.”