Probation Officers...still Not Compatible
Posted: Thursday, September 22, 2011
by Taylor Barcus
I started my probation on January 6, 2011. I got out of jail the night of January 5th and was told to report to my probation officer ASAP. Well, I was under the assumption that since I got out rather late, that I would simply go right in the morning. I walk into this strange new environment the next morning and have no idea what to do. I finally figure out that I have to push a button and someone on the other end will assist me. I tell them why I am there and wait nervously on the plastic green chair.
So we start by talking about my living and working situation. I live with my parents and didnt have a job. She was adamant that I should not live with my parents, but I didnt have any money, I just got out of jail and couldnt afford to move out. I had so much restitution to pay back along with other bills, most importantly student loans. Because I lived with my parents, and my father drinks, she demanded that I get a breatililyzer every day just to make sure that I wasnt drinking. What?! My crime had nothing to do with drinking. I then got a job ASAP and have been making all of my payments on time, each month. With all of my bills right now, moving out of my parents is not an option.
She also demanded that I see a counselor. I was completly fine with that and throughout my counseling sessions and my new medication regime for depression and anxiety, my counselor agrees that right now living with my parents is a good thing. They are helping me get back on my feet and providing tons of support. The last thing that I want to do is find myself in deep financial strain again and go back to committing crimes to pay my bills. I dont know why my PO cannot comprehend or understand this.
She is also overly upset at the medication my psychiatrist has prescribed me for anxiety. Stating that it is addictive and I cannot take it. I asked my doctor about this and he found this outlandish. The goal of the treatment isnt to take it forever, but to get my panic attacks under control. He would rather see me take these then go out and drink- which I completly agree with. I told my PO that once she gets her medical license she can prescribe me what she thinks is appropriate.
I despise going to see her. I am legally obligated to see her at least once a month and every time she never has time to talk to me and also has other individuals in her office while I am there which is a complete lack of privacy. I follow all of her rules, pay my restitution on time, do everything by the book but yet she simply treats me like I am dirt. I believe that if you have a client who is proving that they are trying to get better then you should treat them with dignity and respect.
I find myself praying that things will improve.
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Top-level comments on this article: (4 total)Taylor,
Is this a small place, or is there the possiblity of getting transfered to a different probation officer? The possibility exists that she is new, and fresh out of college, is she? Some people overcompensate for their lack of experience, with a stern, controlling demeaner.
Too bad you have this person, because a probation officer is supposed to see to it that you follow the rules, however, it should be done with compassion. This is the person who is to help you transition. Anyone acting like thi,s after a few years is not helpful to the system..
Hi Elle,
This is a rather large facility and my PO has been working there for years with plenty of complaints under her belt. I just filed a formal complaint against her last week. I wish that she would be compassionate. I know what I did was wrong and I am trying my hardest to overcome my obstacles and become a better person. But having her nag me about everything is overwhelming and causes me to panic each and every time I see her. I am hoping that they give me a new PO. I am praying actually. Thanks for the wonderful comment.
Very many inmates when given a chance for early parole choose rather to serve their time, than be released, as they well know how abusive and offensive restrictive Parole Officers' demands can be.
I wish I had a room for you.
PaulThank you Paul, your comments are very much appreciated.
I can't believe you're being treated this way, Taylor. It's shocking and makes me so angry; I want to tear strips off this woman. She should be trying everything in her power to make things easier for you. I'm sorry your home environment is so awful, and I hope you either find someone who you can stay with or some kind of work that you like which will let you find your own place. You have such a vibrant spirit, I believe things will get better for you.
Hang in there, Taylor. Don't let her get you off track!
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