You meet a 22 year old homeless offender at the probation office who asks for help,

Before taking any action, what information would you want to know and why?

Before I would answer this, what kind of help is he asking for? Why is he asking you? Why is he homeless? Is he jobless also? Are you the P.O. or someone else that works there or someone who is just there, on coincidence?

you meet a 22 year old homeless offender at the probation office who asks for help, before taking any action, what information would you want to know and why?Hello k:

I'd want to know where I parked my car and how long it'll take me to get there. Why? Because I'd like to leave as soon as I can - ALONE.

excon

Didn't answer the question, instead poked fun. Pathetic

Before I would answer this, what kind of help is he asking for? Why is he asking you? Why is he homeless? Is he jobless also? Are you the P.O. or someone else that works there or someone who is just there, on coincidence?

The person is on probation and I am a project worker its an interview question, just wanted someone else's input, if the person has a job would be on the list of questions that I would ask, the offender wants my help to integrate him/her back into society:)

Hello again, k:

I didn't know you were a professional. When I've visited my PO, I've run into all sorts of people that I'd rather not be around. Hence, my advice for an early exit. I wasn't poking fun. I was telling the truth in my own smart mouthed manner. But, it WAS the truth.

Of course, you should have told us that you were a professional. My response would have been different.

If you had, I would have told you to refer to the Probation Department Policy and Procedures Manual. I'm certain that it covers EXACTLY what information you are required to obtain. I'm also certain that it spells out the specific criteria for any action you might take too. You don't have a whole lot of latitude in what you can and can't do. Nor should you.

It appears that you haven't been trained properly. I would ask my supervisor for a copy of that manual. If the department you work for doesn't HAVE a manual, then I'd quit and find a department that did.

I say this, because if you deal wrongly with a sex offender, you're liable to screw him up. But, more importantly, you're liable to screw YOURSELF up.

excon

I ditto excon's remarks. You should have had the training necessary to do your job and you should have some policies and procedures in writing to back up what you ask.

Your first question almost seems deliberately vague.