Denver Probation Officers Have Tremendous Power
It should not be this way, but I am reminded daily of the virtually limitless power possessed by probation officers in Denver, Colorado. These people have little education, no legal training, and are not always the smartest people. But, they are government employees and courts give them tremendous discretion and power.
Douglas County Judges Give Away Their Power to Probation Officers
Judges are extremely busy. While the legislature is busy creating new laws to look busy, more conduct is declared illegal. For example, if you make a phone call to someone and hang up, you will be charged with Harassment. If you follow a cute girl down the street to see where she works, you will be charged with Stalking. If you pee in a place where others see your backside, you can be charged with either Indecent Exposure or Public Indecency in Douglas County. All this legislation has police and courts running at full capacity. In the past, people settled minor disputes between themselves like grown-ups. Today it is a race to dial 911. Judges simply do not have the time anymore to monitor and supervise defendants on probation.
Probation Officers Protect the Jobs of Adams County Judges
Judges like their jobs and they need insulation from defendants. Between every convicted person and the judge is a probation officer. This protects the judge in the event something goes wrong in Adams County. If a defendant reoffends in a sexual assault case or a domestic violence situation, the judge can be criticized – as if he could have prevented the new offense. This is unfair, but prompted by a media competing for ratings, the public always looks for someone to blame along with the defendant.
Probation Officers are Quick to File a Revocation of Probation in Arapahoe County
Knowing they will receive the full support of the judge, probation officers in Arapahoe County quickly file revocation complaints when the case gets hot. Hot means a defendant is not following the rules and the officer does not want the exposure if a defendant reoffends. From judges through probation through treaters, it is all about CYA. Everyone wants to protect their income stream and to be able to blame someone else if something goes wrong.
Jefferson County Lawyers Here to Protect Your Future
Our experienced criminal defense lawyers practice in Jefferson County and all over Colorado. After over 26 years working in the courts, we know how to protect your interests and fight probation officers who have such great power. If you are in hot water with a judge, DA or probation officer, exercise your right to remain silent and call us at 303-731-0719. Together, we can protect your future.
Read about the difference between a Probation Officer and a Parole Officer.