ABOUT OPCA
The Office of Probation and Correctional Alternatives (OPCA) oversees and advances evidence-based probation services and other community corrections programs designed to provide juveniles and adults under supervision in the community with guidance and services to assist them in leading productive and crime-free lives. Supervision may include the collection of court-ordered restitution and payment to victims of crime, participation in cognitive behavioral interventions, engagement in employment readiness training and the use of incentives and graduated sanctions in response to non-compliant behaviors.
OPCA regulates and provides technical assistance and training to probation departments in 57 counties and New York City; trains probation officers employed by these local agencies; and oversees and develops standards for alternatives to incarceration programs administered by government and not-for-profit organizations and agencies across the state. In addition, the office oversees and funds 20 county-based, Re-entry Task Forces, composed of community-based organizations that provide housing, treatment and employment services to individuals returning from state incarceration to their communities. Funding for probation services, alternatives to incarceration programs, and the re-entry task forces is administered by DCJS. The office also oversees and regulates New York State’s ignition interlock program, for individuals convicted of DWI crimes, who are ordered by the Courts to install ignition interlock devices in motor vehicles they own or operate.
OPCA is overseen by a Deputy Commissioner, who serves as State Probation Director and also chairs the New York State Probation Commission. The Deputy Commissioner also serves as the Commissioner/Compact Administrator for New York State’s participation in the Interstate Compact for Adult Offender Supervision (ICAOS) and oversees the interstate transfer of probationers and parolees.
The work done in communities across the state by probation and community corrections professionals is integral to the state’s criminal justice system and contributes to New York’s standing as the safest large state in the nation. OPCA is committed to helping these professionals advance sound criminal justice policies, improve practices and provide services and programs rooted in evidence-based strategies that promote public safety, ensure offender accountability, provide restitution to victims and reduce recidivism.
Contact:
Office of Probation and Correctional Alternatives
New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services
Gov. Alfred E. Smith State Office Building
80 South Swan St., Albany, New York 12210
Phone: 518-485-7692
Fax:518-485-5140
Please note:
- The office does not supervise individuals sentenced to probation and cannot provide information about individuals who are supervised by local Probation Departments in the state. The state Department of Corrections and Community Supervision is responsible for individuals released from state prison on parole or to a period of post-release supervision.
- The office cannot provide legal advice. Individuals who need an attorney may contact the New York State Bar Association for more information.