In FY2012, there were 6,062 juveniles under supervision and 5,471 under supervision in FY2011 in Colorado. Further, during that time, there were 1,871 juvenile investigations, 4,434 new clients, and 4,254 closures. The recidivism rate for juvenile offenders in Colorado in 2011 was 14.7 percent.
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Juvenile offenders in Colorado are supervised by juvenile probation officers throughout the state’s 22 judicial districts (Denver has its own judicial district). Juvenile probation officers are responsible for the predisposition investigation and supervision of juveniles under probation in Colorado.
How to Become a Juvenile Probation Officer in Colorado
Individuals interested in pursuing juvenile probation officer careers in Colorado must first earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Although not required, it is preferred that candidates have a degree in sociology, social work, criminal justice, psychology or a related field.
All new probation officers must complete a number of requirements as a condition of continued employment, including a basic safety course, an officer field safety course, new employee training through the Colorado Judicial Branch, and the initial Probation Academy.
Further, in years two, three and four of employment, juvenile probation officers must complete additional training. All officers must receive a score of 75 percent or higher on all post-training exams to continue employment.
Although Colorado does not certify its probation officers, all probation officers are required to obtain, at a minimum, 40 hours of continuing education each year by completing courses through the Division of Probation and Services’ professional development program.
Juvenile Aftercare/Reentry Services in Colorado
Juvenile parole officers through the Division of Youth Corrections provide aftercare, or parole, services, which are designed to aid in the transition of juveniles back into the community.
The Division of Youth Corrections provides both residential and non-residential services, which include juvenile detention, parole, and commitment. The District Court of the Colorado Department of Human Services mandates all care provided by the Division of Youth Corrections.