If I Violate Parole, Will I Go Back to Jail?

Parole Violation OhioAny violation of your parole terms creates the possibility that you will be sent back to jail or prison. Ohio law provides that any parole violation means you may be arrested without an arrest warrant by any parole officer. That being said, parole violations can be met with a range of responses from parole officers.

The response depends on the severity of the violation and the offender’s risk of reoffending.  Violations are reviewed and weighed depending upon the nature of the violation, risk, and overall parole history of the individual. According to the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections website:

Parole Board Hearing Officers are involved in two areas of the violation sanction process.  If an offender does not respond positively to previously imposed sanctions by the supervising officer, a Parole Board Summons may be scheduled. This is a meeting with the offender, the supervising officer, and the Parole Board Hearing Officers to discuss the consequences of continued violation behavior, such as returning to prison, and to assist the offender in realizing the impact of his/her behavior.  The Parole Board Hearing Officers reinforces the sanctions ordered by the supervising officer in order to promote compliance.

Ohio courts do not look favorably upon parole violations. Your probation could be revoked or modified if you do not follow the exact requirements that the court sets forth. And prosecutors do not have a high standard of proof they must show in order to send you back to jail or significantly modify the terms of your parole. Prosecutors only need to demonstrate that the “preponderance of the evidence” points to a parole violation, and not the “beyond a reasonable doubt” standard of proof.

Here are some general categories of parole violations according to Ohio law:

  • Carrying a firearm
  • Failing to appear for a probation meeting
  • Being late to a probation meeting
  • Failing to pay court costs or fines
  • Changing your address without permission
  • Not completing classes the court has ordered you to take
  • Not submitting to a drug or alcohol test
  • Associating with known criminals
  • Not reporting a change of employment status
  • Not registering as a sex offender
  • Being convicted of a new offense
  • Not paying restitution
  • Leaving the county or jurisdiction

Need a Criminal Defense Attorney in Columbus, Ohio?

If you’re dealing with a parole violation, you need an advocate who can help create a favorable climate when dealing with the court or parole officer on this issue. The skilled, trusted legal representation at Probst Law Office offers the help you need to be sure you have the representation you deserve in facing parole violations.  Get the experience  you need when you hire Michael Probst as your attorney.  Contact Michael today for your free consultation, or call now at 614-232-8890.