Pennsylvania residents on parole strive to heed the conditions of their parole. If a person moves, it’s fair to wonder if that can be considered a parole violation.
What are the normal conditions of parole?
When a person has served time in prison and is released early, there are certain conditions they must meet. If they commit any parole violations, it could jeopardize their parole. Parolees are required to regularly check in with their parole officers to inform them of any new changes such as new employment or home address. They must also keep their employment, avoid drugs, take random drug tests, enter rehab and counseling if necessary and pay court fees and fines. Parolees must also be home each day by a set curfew time.
What if a parolee moves to a new address?
One of the normal conditions of parole is to inform a parole officer of a change in residence. As a result, if a parolee suddenly moves without informing their parole officer, it’s considered one of several possible parole violations. This is also the state’s most common violation.
What happens if someone violates the conditions of their parole?
Parole violations can result in serious repercussions. A person might get a warning by their parole officer or be sent back to court to face charges. However, even after a violation, the individual doesn’t automatically get sent back to prison as they are entitled to a hearing before a judge to decide what happens next.
Hearings take place within 14 days of violations. The judge decides if the person should continue serving parole or if they should be placed in jail before a second hearing occurs. If the person is incarcerated, it could result in their parole being revoked. However, in some cases, the judge might allow them to continue serving their parole.
Parole violations are viewed seriously. If you’re planning to move, immediately inform your parole officer ahead of time.