In January 2012, the Maine Department of Corrections reported adults on probation and parole for the following crimes in the Lewiston, Maine area (Region 2):
- 479 for drug offenses
- 240 for sex offenses
- 30 for arson
- 12 for murder
- 11 for kidnapping
- 3 for animal abuse
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The Maine Department of Corrections Adult Community Corrections oversees probation and parole offices across the state of Maine. These offices are divided into regions throughout the state. Lewiston is the location of the main office for Region 2. Other probation and parole offices in Region 2 are located in the cities of Wiscassett, Waterville, Skowhegan, Rockland, and Augusta.
Education and Experience Needed to Become a Probation and Parole Officer in Lewiston
Becoming a probation or parole officer in Lewiston requires candidates to possess a bachelor’s degree at minimum. A human services major, like social or behavioral science or criminal justice, is most desirable. Additionally, candidates should have six months of experience in counseling, law enforcement, probation or parole, or case management in order to begin a probation officer career in Lewiston. A combination of education and experience is also acceptable.
All vacant Lewiston probation and parole officer jobs will be advertised at the Maine Department of Corrections website. An online job application link or printable job application will also be provided there. After submitting an application, qualified applicants may be contacted to schedule an interview.
Before beginning a probation and parole officer career in Lewiston, the hiring process will also consist of thorough background and criminal history checks, drug testing and a psychological examination.
Supplemental Information to Become a Probation and Parole Officer in Lewiston
On the application for Lewiston probation and parole officer jobs, candidates must relate exactly how their experience and education relates to the job requirements in a supplement to the job application. All applicants must give explanations in the following areas:
- Demonstrate a commitment to offender rehabilitation and criminal justice
- Show case management skills, including completion of assessments, collaborating with other agencies and managing a large caseload
- Administrative duties such as technical writing and reporting
- Experience in law enforcement practices, like usage of firearms, conducting investigations, and drug testing of offenders
The more of these supplemental questions that a candidate can answer and elaborate upon, the more favorably that application will be judged by the Division of Community Corrections when making hiring decisions.
Training and Continuing Education for Probation and Parole Officers in Lewiston
All new probation and parole officers in Lewiston complete 240 hours of training during the first year of their careers.
Every year, probation and parole officers in Lewiston are expected to take 40 hours of continuing education training, including the re-qualification to use firearms. This is intended to help probation and parole officers in Lewiston keep their law enforcement and job-related skills and knowledge sharp.