ABSTRACT
Probation and parole supervision as currently operated, like the prison, are American inventions. Both involve the conditional release of convicted offenders into the community under supervision. Probation and parole can be considered the "bookends" of imprisonment. This chapter examines community supervision in the criminal justice system of the United States. It describes probation and parole supervision as well as some other forms of community control of offenders. The chapter explores the history and practice of probation and parole and also examines other community-based sanctions and the various populations involved in these sanctions. While probation and parole are the major components of community supervision of criminal offenders, other programs play a role in the nonincarceration treatment of convicted offenders. These programs include halfway houses, community service, furlough, work and education, home incarceration, and various diversion programs. The experience of being "on paper" reflects the number and content of conditions as well as the characteristics of the probation or parole officer.
