History

Probation emerged as a part of the criminal justice system in response to humanitarian concerns and through the rise of social sciences. Probation in the United States began in 1841 with the innovative work of John Augustus. Mr. Augustus posted bail for a man charged with being a common drunk under the authority of the Boston Police Court. When the man appeared before the judge for sentencing, Mr. Augustus asked the judge to defer sentencing for three weeks and release the man into Augustus’ custody. At the end of the brief probationary period, the offender convinced the judge of his reform and therefore received a nominal fine. The concept of probation had been born.