The supervision of juveniles on probation in Clackamas County, Oregon is conducted by the Clackamas County Juvenile Department. Juvenile probation officers use a variety of agency and community programs to assist in the rehabilitation of juvenile offenders.
The underlying philosophy of juvenile probation is that offenders must be held accountable while the Clackamas County Juvenile Department still maintains a firm commitment to rehabilitation.
Sponsored School(s)
Training and Education for Juvenile Probation Officers in
Clackamas County, Oregon
Juvenile probation officer jobs in Clackamas County, Oregon require that applicants meet the following criteria:
- Possess a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, social or behavioral science
- Possess a valid driver’s license
- Be willing to be on call 24 hours a day
- Pass a background investigation
- Pass a drug test
The skills necessary to become a successful juvenile probation officer in Clackamas County include:
- Superior written and verbal communication
- Investigative techniques
- Interviewing offenders, families, law enforcement officers and victims
- Testifying and making recommendations during legal proceedings
- Assessment of offenders for drug or alcohol dependency, mental health issues or other risk factors
- Provide counseling
- Acquire access to treatment programs or community resources for offenders
- Monitor offenders using traditional and electronic techniques
- Generate customized supervision plans
New juvenile probation officers must attend a 40 hour basic training program at the Oregon Juvenile Justice Training Academy. Upon graduation, new officers will be certified as peace officers. This certification must be maintained through annual training through at least 40 hours of classroom and practical instruction. In addition to supervision by a senior officer during the first months of service, additional training unique to Clackamas County may be required.
Juvenile Probation Programs Available in Clackamas County
One of the key components of the juvenile system in Clackamas County is Restorative Justice, which seeks the input of victims in educating adolescent offenders. The Restorative Justice program also encourages members of the community to become involved in juvenile offenses so that the harm of offenses can be properly explored and communicated to delinquents. Juveniles may be asked to apologize to their victims and provide restitution.
The Cognitive Skills Group is an evidence-based therapy that seeks to help youth offenders adopt new behaviors. This re-education occurs within a group setting and provides juvenile delinquents with new skills necessary to be a useful, productive member of the community. This program also introduces youths to community resources, which can be helpful in mitigating risk factors.
The Drug Diversion Program is a graduated response system to young offenders who have committed crimes while using drugs. First time offenders are referred to community Diversion Panels, who meet with youths and their families. Using assessment tools, the panels then determine the risks and needs of the offender. The offender and their family are also informed of future consequences of repeat offenses. These panels may instate measures like community service, drug testing or written essays on drug use. Repeat offenses may result in harsher penalties including substance abuse treatment, fines or loss of driving privileges.