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Probation Aftercare Officers

The Role of the Probation Aftercare Officer in Jamaica

A Probation Aftercare Officer (PAO) is an officer of the Court, mandated to supervise and support clients placed on orders by judicial authorities, including:

  • Parish Courts (including Children’s Courts)

  • Supreme Court

  • Circuit Courts

  • Gun Court

  • The Parole Board

Probation Aftercare Officers also work with wards and inmates in both juvenile and adult correctional institutions.

Office Locations

Probation offices operate in every parish in Jamaica, with:

  • Two offices in St. James

  • Three offices in each of St. Catherine and the Corporate Area (Kingston & St. Andrew)

1. Investigative Role – Court Requirements

Probation Aftercare Officers are responsible for conducting social investigations and preparing Social Enquiry Reports (SERs) to assist judges in making informed decisions—especially in cases involving children and young adults under age 25.

Key Investigative Functions:
  • Interview inmates at admission and prior to release

  • Assess suitability for home leave, weekend release, or parole

  • Submit Parole Reports to the Parole Board

Social Enquiry Reports (SERs) include assessments of:
  • Circumstances of the offence

  • Early life and family background

  • Home environment and interpersonal relationships

  • Educational attainment and behavioural patterns

  • Employment history and ability to maintain work

  • Community feedback and verification of residence

  • Psycho-social and socio-economic conditions

  • Victim impact statements and suggested resolutions

2. Supervisory Role

PAOs supervise individuals placed on a variety of court orders, including:

  • Probation Orders (1–3 years)

  • Suspended Sentence with Supervision (1–3 years)

  • Community Service Orders (40–480 hours)

  • Parole Orders

  • Supervision Orders (for children)

  • Statutory Supervision (for children)

Additional Supervisory Responsibilities:
  • Monitor adults and children on voluntary supervision

  • Act as liaisons between inmates/wards and their families

  • Prepare clients for reintegration into society upon release

  • Assist with social and economic challenges affecting reintegration

3. Determinants of Supervision

The risk/needs of each client determine the intensity and frequency of supervision.

Supervision is guided by:
    • Risk assessment and need-based planning

    • Agreed-upon treatment goals between client and officer

    • Ongoing monitoring and goal modification

    • Regular contact with families, guardians, or support systems

    • Preparation for and support during re-entry into society

    • Supervision of parolees, both for fixed and indefinite durations

The work of Probation Aftercare Officers is central to rehabilitation, restorative justice, and public safety. They serve as a bridge between the court system, correctional institutions, and the community, promoting effective reintegration and reducing recidivism.

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