Assignment: The Presentence Investigation-
Purpose and Procedure
One of the topics reviewed in this module is the development and purpose of a PSI report in many criminal justice systems. Most long-form PSIs contain at least six main sections, which are as follows:
• Part A - A description of the offense
• Part B - The defendant's criminal history (broken down into juvenile and adult)
• Part C - Offender characteristics-includes subsections of personal and family data; physical condition; mental and emotional health; substance abuse; educational, vocational, and special skills; employment; and financial condition
• Part D - Sentencing options
• Part E - Circumstances for departure
• Part F - Variance
This organizational structure highlights the critical components of a PSI. It also offers a good overview of the functions of a PSI.
Click here to read a sample PSI report.
On the basis of what you've learned in this module and using specific examples from the PSI (read the sample PSI), prepare a 4- to 5-page paper to address the following:
• How does a PSI help the court to determine an appropriate sentencing decision?
• How does a PSI impact possible probation and parole decisions?
• How does a PSI help the court determine the sentence length and make recommendations for institutional placement?
• How does a PSI help the criminal justice system make informed decisions regarding probation or parole supervision?
• How might a PSI help the criminal justice system with treatment recommendations?
• How does a PSI assist corrections personnel in:
o Offender classification
o Offender management
o Treatment options
o Release planning
• How does a PSI assist the defendant and defense counsel?