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Is anyone familiar with Indiana probation standards?

I asked a similar question earlier but may not have been clear on what my question was. Is there anyone with knowledge of Indiana laws who can tell me what the standard is for (a) failed drug screen test? I am seeking any professional opinion from a qualified person such as lawyer judge or probation officer. Apparently someone thought I was asking who should or shouldn't be arrested in these cases or that maybe I thought I shouldn't have been. I am NOT interested in someones personal opinion. Simply asking if there is a state standard guideline. In our county it seems to be pick and choose. Some people fail repeatedly without being violated. others get violated for one. Doesn't there have to be SOME type of standard? If one person goes to jail for one shouldn't EVERYONE? I would also be interested in hearing how many people consider addiction a criminal issue and if I am alone in thinking that it's a social issue? Dealing drugs is criminal. Manufacturing drugs is a criminal offense. Addiction to drugs? Criminal?

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  • 1 decade ago

    I'm not familiar with Indiana standards, but do know the standards in my state. Everyone on probation is subject to drug testing, but, unless there is a reason to believe they are using and weren't convicted of a drug crime, testing isn't mandatory. If I do administer a drug test to a client, and they are positive, the policy is to retest at least every 45 days until they are clean. If they don't get clean we refer them to a substance abuse counselor to be assessed for treatment. However, there are so many people under supervision in this country that enforcing these standards is very difficult.

    As regards testing positive and being "violated," there are several factors to consider there too. What were the positive for? Marijuana, Methamphetamine, Heroine, Cocaine? Generally, the more dangerous the drug the more likely that the PO will prepare a violation report. Some probation officers are more likely to be more lenient on people who are able to maintain employment, report as directed, and otherwise don't get into trouble. Sometimes they are less tolerant when the person is younger and needs "a wake up call," or is just a wise***. Also, pregnant women get zero tolerance from me for anything other than marijuana, and not many breaks for that.

    Drug addiction is a social issue that politicians and the public have chosen to make a legal issue. People have been using drugs since pre-history and always will. Cops, prosecutors, judges and PO's didn't make the laws, but are only hired to enforce them. I do believe that we need to make some changes to these laws. As a citizen, I would be in favor of decriminalizing some (not all) drug use. :Until that happens I have to do my job.

    Source(s): PO for 10 years. 25 years in counseling before that.
  • KarenL
    Lv 6
    1 decade ago

    Well Hope, if you are seeking a "Professional opinion", I suggest that you legally obtain some cash and ask a licensed attorney in Indiana. Paying for an professional opinion is the best way to get one that is worth the price.

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