House Arrest: What is a Conditional Sentence Order?

A Conditional Sentence Order, also known as “house arrest,” is a type of sentence that allows an offender to serve their sentence in the community, rather than in a prison.

This type of sentence is typically used for non-violent offenders and is intended to provide an alternative to incarceration that allows the offender to maintain their employment and support their family, while also providing a form of punishment and rehabilitation.

Conditions of a Conditional Sentence Order

When a judge imposes a Conditional Sentence Order, they will set out the conditions that the offender must abide by. These conditions may include:

• Residing at a specific address or location,
• Refraining from consuming alcohol or drugs,
• Abstaining from contact with certain individuals,
• Participating in counselling or rehabilitation programs,
• Performing community service,
• Abiding by a curfew, and
• Reporting to a probation officer on a regular basis.

Difference between a Suspended Sentence and Probation

It is important to note that a Conditional Sentence Order is not the same as a suspended sentence or probation.

A suspended sentence is a sentence that is imposed but not immediately executed, while probation is a form of supervision that is imposed in addition to a sentence.

A Conditional Sentence Order is a sentence in and of itself and is intended to be an alternative to incarceration.

Benefits of a Conditional Sentence Order

One of the key benefits of a Conditional Sentence Order is that it allows the offender to maintain employment and support their family. This can be particularly important for offenders who are the primary breadwinners for their families.

It can also provide the offender with an opportunity to continue their education or training, which can help them to find employment upon their release.

Another benefit of a Conditional Sentence Order is that it allows the offender to participate in counselling or rehabilitation programs. This can include programs for substance abuse, anger management, or mental health issues.

These programs can help the offender address the underlying issues that may have led to their criminal behaviour and can increase the likelihood of their successful reintegration into the community.

Consequences of Violating a Conditional Sentence Order

However, it is important to note that a Conditional Sentence Order is not a “get out of jail free” card.

Offenders who violate the conditions of their sentence can be returned to custody to serve the remainder of their sentence. This can include violating a curfew, failing to report to a probation officer, or consuming drugs or alcohol.

How Do Police Monitor a House Arrest/CSO?

To ensure that offenders are complying with the conditions of their sentence, police officers may conduct regular check-ins at the offender’s residence. This may involve confirming the offender’s whereabouts and ensuring that they are not in violation of any conditions, such as consuming alcohol or drugs. Police officers may also conduct random drug and alcohol testing to ensure compliance with any conditions related to substance abuse.

In addition, police may also be responsible for enforcing a curfew, if one is imposed as part of the offender’s sentence. This may involve conducting regular patrols in the area where the offender is required to reside, to ensure that they are not in violation of their curfew.

If an offender violates the conditions of their sentence, officers may be responsible for arresting the offender and returning them to custody to serve the remainder of their sentence. Police officers may also be required to provide evidence in court if an offender is charged with violating their sentence.

Overall, police officers play a critical role in monitoring and enforcing Conditional Sentence Orders. They work closely with probation officers and the courts to ensure that offenders are complying with the conditions of their sentence and that they are held accountable for any violations.

Contact a Criminal Lawyer Today

A Conditional Sentence Order is a type of sentence that allows an offender to serve their sentence in the community, rather than in a correctional facility.

It is typically used for non-violent offenders and is intended to provide an alternative to incarceration that allows the offender to maintain their employment and support their family, while also providing a form of punishment and rehabilitation.

To speak with Cory Wilson or arrange a free, no-obligation consultation with Wilson Criminal Defence, call 403-978-6052 or email us here.