17) CAN I LEAVE THE STATE TO VISIT?

Out-of-state travel requires a travel pass. You must request a travel pass from your Parole Officer with the following information: why and when you plan to leave, how you plan to travel, with whom you plan to travel, where you plan to stay, and when and how you plan to return. In some states, it will be necessary for you to check in with the local police department. Initially, no visit can be approved for a period of over three weeks. Longer stays involve at least some supervision by the parole authorities in the state being visited. It is always helpful to give your Parole Officer as much advance notice as possible regarding a planned trip so that he or she can have the necessary paperwork completed in sufficient time. Travel passes must be approved by a Senior Parole Officer.

18) WHAT IS ABSCONDING?

Absconding is when you stop seeing your parole officer. The conditions of release specify a number of situations that could be considered absconding in the absence of a satisfactory explanation. These include failure to make an office report to your Parole Officer, failure to attend a mandated treatment program, changing address without permission, or leaving the boundaries of your Region or state without permission. Absconding will lead to the issuance of a warrant for your arrest.

19) WHY IS ABSCONDING AN IMPORTANT ISSUE?

Continued contact with your Parole Officer is the essence of Parole supervision. If you break off contact, your Parole Officer can no longer assist you or ensure that you are complying with the conditions of your release.

20) WHAT HAPPENS IF I AM ARRESTED?

You must report any arrests or contacts with law enforcement officers or agencies to your Parole Officer. He or she will complete an investigation of the incident. Possible parole violation charges will be considered after the investigation is completed.

21) WHY IS PAROLE CHARGING A MONTHLY SUPERVISON FEE?

In March of 1992, the State of New York enacted a law (Section 259-a, subdivision 9 of the Executive Law) requiring every release over 18 years of age to pay a monthly Fee for Supervision.

22) WHO HAS TO PAY THIS MONTHLY FEE?

If you are on active supervision or conditional release you have to pay the monthly fee unless you are formally excused by a written waiver from DOCCS.

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