In most cases, sentencing alternatives are presented to the court based on this investigation. During FY 97, there were 8,762 investigations conducted. If sentenced to prison, the presentence investigation provides the basis for initial offender classification. Probation Services Probation provides a major alternative to institutionalization for 26,898 clients after sentencing, the largest corrections' service. Convicted misdemeanants and felons are supervised in the community after classification assessment, case planning, and referral to local treatment agencies.
Probation officers maintain contact with their clients and monitor the progress of each case.
Community Service Sentencing Community service requires select offenders to perform volunteer community service as a form of restitution to the community. During FY 97 there were 363,332 hours performed under this program by 7,582 offenders. Probationary offenders unable to function in the community and institutional inmates nearing release may be assigned to residential facilities for work release for a transitional period to become adjusted to working and living in the community. Drunk driver services are provided for offenders sentenced to prison for third or subsequent offense drunk driving. These offenders must complete a 220-hour specialized substance abuse program.