There can be many different consequences that come with violating parole. Parole is a conditional release from prison that allows an individual to serve their sentence under supervision in the community. In Oklahoma, parolees must adhere to specific conditions set by the parole board or court. Violating these conditions can lead to serious consequences, including the possibility of returning to prison.
Common Parole Conditions
Parole conditions help parolees reintegrate into society while ensuring public safety. Parolees must obey all local, state, and federal laws. Committing a new crime is a serious parole violation. They must regularly report to their parole officer and provide updates on their activities, residence, and employment status. Some parolees may have specific curfews they must adhere to.
Parolees must maintain employment or participate in educational or vocational training. They cannot contact certain individuals, such as victims or co-defendants, or engage in specific activities like traveling outside a designated area without permission.
Consequences of Violating Parole
When a parolee violates the conditions of their parole, the consequences can vary depending on the nature and severity of the violation. For minor violations, a parole officer may issue a verbal or written warning, which serves as a reminder to comply with parole conditions and avoid further violations.
A parole officer may impose increased supervision measures, such as more frequent reporting or stricter curfews, in response to a violation. If the violation involves substance abuse or other behavioral issues, the parolee may be required to attend mandatory counseling or treatment programs. However, serious or repeated violations can lead to a revocation hearing. During this hearing, the parole board or court reviews the evidence of the violation and decides whether to revoke parole.
If parole is revoked, the parolee may be returned to prison to serve the remainder of their original sentence, or an additional sentence imposed due to the violation. The length of reincarceration depends on the nature of the violation and the parolee’s criminal history. If the violation involves committing a new crime, the parolee may face new criminal charges in addition to the violation. This can result in additional penalties, including longer prison sentences.
The Parole Violation Process
If a parole officer suspects a violation, they will investigate and document the incident. The officer may conduct interviews, gather evidence, and prepare a report detailing the alleged violation. The parolee is notified of the alleged violation and informed of their rights, such as the right to a hearing.
A preliminary hearing may be held to determine if there is probable cause to believe that a violation occurred, and if probable cause is found, a formal revocation hearing is scheduled. The parolee has the right to present evidence, call witnesses, and cross-examine the state’s witnesses. The parole board or court then decides whether to revoke parole based on the evidence presented.
If the board or court finds that a violation occurred, they will decide on the penalty, which can range from supervision to reincarceration.
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Tulsa Criminal Lawyers
Violating parole in Oklahoma can have serious consequences, including increased supervision, mandatory treatment, or even reincarceration. It is crucial for parolees to understand and comply with all conditions of their parole to avoid these outcomes. If you’re facing charges, call our team at Tulsa Criminal Lawyers Law Firm at (918) 416-0358 or contact us online.