The Monroe County Probation and Community Corrections Office provides adult probation services in Rochester, Hilton, Fairport, Pittsford, Brockport and dozens of other towns and burgs located throughout the county. Originally begun in 1901 as the Monroe County Probation Department, it currently employs 234 officers and other staff to provide intake, investigation, assessment and supervision services. It also assists supervisees in finding and participating in counseling, rehabilitative and treatment programs.
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The Office of Probation was the first in the state to introduce Intensive Supervision as an alternative to incarceration. Originally intended to relieve overcrowding in detention facilities, intensive supervision is now available to felony and misdemeanor offenders. This office also supervises community service sentences handed down by the Monroe County judicial courts.
Monroe County Setting New Standards in Probation Services
In order to protect the public and provide opportunities for probationers to return to a productive life, the Office of Probation assists in providing individual and group counseling, surveillance, and random home visits. Special units also provide more robust supervision for sex offenders, DWI offenders, substance abusers, domestic violence offenders and supervisees with mental health issues. Probation officers also monitor probationers using electronic devices. The department also supervises juvenile probationers with Aftercare Officers.
The Criminal Investigations Division is a special unit that prepares recommendations to the court using interviews with defendants, families and victims to determine if pretrial release is an option. The Criminal Supervision section utilizes five units to monitor the needs of probationers, refer them to treatment, and report them for probation violations. Operation Nightwatch partners probation officers with Rochester police so that they may make unannounced visits to probationers after hours.
How to Become a Probation Officer in Monroe County, New York
In order to become a probation officer in Rochester or another location in Monroe County, candidates must first pass the civil service exam offered by the Monroe County Department of Public Safety. To qualify for this exam, applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree with at least thirty semester hours in behavioral or social sciences. A transcript must be provided along with the exam application. The examination is multiple choice in format and covers
- Preparing written materials
- Practices and principles of offender counseling and supervision
Following the exam, candidates will be psychologically evaluated and investigated for any disqualifying factors like felony arrests or immoral character.
Monroe County extends preference to candidates who have prior experience in probation.
- One to Six years of service: 1 point
- Six to 11 years of service: 2 points
- 11 to 16 years of service: 3 points
- 16 to 21 years of service: 4 points
- 21 to 26 years of service: 5 points
New officers are hired as trainees and must serve in that position for at least two years. During this time, they must complete the Municipal Police Training Council course. A 47 hour Firearms and Weapons Training Course must also be completed within six months of hiring.