Presentence Investigation

Typically, the person that prepares the presentence investigation report (PSIR) has a heavy responsibility in report writing. In our criminal justice classes, we have identified this person as the probation officer of the defendant. The purpose of writing the PSIR is to inform the judge about the conditions of the defendant and recommend treatment or sentencing options. This is a very difficult decision to make because the options are endless. Sometimes, the recommendations are rarely followed. The PSIR reports are typed, double spaced and numbered by line on the left side margin of the report. This makes it easier to make necessary correction and refer to different lines when questions arises. However, the questions will more than likely
be minimal due to caseload of the probation officer. In addition, these reports are not written in first person. However, when citing quotes from the offender, it should be documented directly in first person. There are two forms of the PSIR, there is the long and short form. Typically, the long forms will be used which includes information such as, names of the officials involved, identification facts used in the police reports, personal data, family names, and instant offenses. Also, the PSIR will be a second report done after the sentencing, which includes the location of the sentencing, sentencing date, and of offenses. The report will include the original version of the PSIR, defendant’s version, victim’s statement and etc. Lastly, there will be an Appendix. Appendix A will contain a model of the presentence report. Appendix B will contain the monthly reporting form. Probation officers are required document information every times the offender reports. The probation officer will document restitution payments or the offender becoming employed and will add narrative at the conclusion of the report. (18 Sentences)