NCJ Number
86334
Date Published
1981
Length
31 pages
Annotation
This discussion of probation in Italy considers law enforcement and the administration of justice as well as the organization and working methods of the probation system.
Abstract
The judiciary police in Italy are charged with investigating crimes, providing evidence, and determining suspects. The police have no discretionary power in the performance of their duties. The public prosecutor initiates criminal proceedings, which cannot be abandoned except under special conditions specified by statute. Sentences consist generally of imprisonment, fines, and various disqualifications. Probation is permitted only after an offender has been observed in detention for at least 3 months, and probation is not permitted for offenders who have committed specified serious crimes. Probation decisionmaking is the responsibility of a special judicial organ, the Supervisory Section, composed of supervisory magistrates who are also responsible for monitoring probation supervision through regular reports from probation officers. The execution of the probation assigment is entrusted to a structure separate from the judiciary, represented by the Social Service Center (for adults) and the Social Service Office (for juveniles). These agencies are under the prison administration and are part of the Ministry of Justice. The fundamental purpose of probation is to resolve the personal, family, and social problems deemed to underlie the offender's deviant behavior. Probation officers are responsible for preparing background reports on offenders and for making frequent contact with the offender and his/her family in all stages of detention and after release. Client services range from assistance in finding employment, shelter, material support, psychological support, and the coordination of special treatment programs. Key addresses and probation statistics for 1976-80 are provided.