Oklahoma Department of Corrections
Frequently Asked Questions about Probation and Parole
• What is the purpose of the Community Corrections Center / Community Work Center?
	Provides offender labor for the purposes of:
	• Developing lands pursuant to a public works program
	• Providing improvement and beautification
	• Aiding offender transition between confinement and society thus reducing recidivism; and similar purposes which serve the public interest.
	• The community typically provides the building to house the offender and the Department of	 Corrections provides the staffing and the offenders to work in the community. The Oklahoma Department of Corrections owns three community work centers located in Elk City, Healdton, and Idabel.
	• Community Corrections Centers are owned and operated by the Department of Corrections.

• What is the difference between Probation and Parole?
	Probation is in lieu of going to prison. Parole is recommended by the Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board, granted by the governor, and releases you to the community for the balance of your confinement.

• What is the difference between a suspended and a deferred sentence?
	A suspended sentence is a conviction with incarceration suspended so the offender can remain supervised in the community. A conviction can be fully or partially suspended.

	A deferred sentence is a type of sentencing agreement in which the sentencing date is deferred to a set time in the future, not to exceed five years from the date the agreement was entered. The offender has been ordered to supervised probation, with a set of rules and conditions issued by the court of jurisdiction. If the offender complies with the rules and conditions and has no violations, the court may dismiss and expunge the charge. A deferred sentence is not considered a felony conviction. If the offender violates the rules and conditions of the probation, the sentencing date may be accelerated and the court can then take action to render an appropriate sentence.

• Am I eligible to get off probation early?
	Yes, if you are not convicted of a sex offense you ar eligible for a statutory termination at two (2) years, if you meet the criteria.

• Can I move to another state?
	Yes, if you meet the criteria with the Interstate Compact.

Updated March 1, 2012