Criminal Justice Practice Exam

What is typically conducted by a probation agency upon a judge's request during the time between a guilty plea and sentencing?

1. A) Termination of probation

2. B) The probation subsidy

3. C) Shock incarceration

4. D) The presentence investigation (PSI)

The correct answer is: D) The presentence investigation (PSI)

The presentence investigation (PSI) is a critical report prepared by a probation agency at the request of a judge after a guilty plea and prior to sentencing. This investigation provides the court with essential information about the offender, which assists in determining an appropriate sentence. The PSI typically includes details such as the defendant's criminal history, background information, family and social ties, educational history, and any mitigating or aggravating factors related to the offense. The PSI plays a significant role in the sentencing process, offering insights that help the judge understand the context of the crime and the character of the offender. It can include recommendations for sentencing based on various assessment tools used by the probation agency, which in turn helps ensure that the sentence reflects both justice for the crime and consideration for the offender’s rehabilitation potential. In contrast, the other options do not directly pertain to this process. Termination of probation refers to the ending of a probationary period, the probation subsidy may refer to financial aid related to probation programs, and shock incarceration relates to an alternative sentencing option that involves a brief stay in a boot camp-style prison. None of these options would be conducted in the same manner as a presentence investigation, which is specifically tailored to inform sentencing decisions right after a