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.
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)
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.
Interview inmates at admission and prior to release
Assess suitability for home leave, weekend release, or parole
Submit Parole Reports to the Parole Board
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
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)
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
The risk/needs of each client determine the intensity and frequency of supervision.
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.
