Introduction to Criminal Justice
Students will learn the historic foundations of the legal and criminal justice systems of the United States and the roles and responsibilities of the parole and probation officers in this system. They will also learn how an infraction, misdemeanor and felony go through the system and the differences between each of the courts including the unique position of the Tribal Court.
Federal Indian Law and Tribal Jurisdiction
Students
will learn the history and evolution of Federal Indian Law and how it
impacts their work as POs today. The complexities of jurisdiction, the
effects of Public Law 280, and other important case law will be studied.
Courtroom Hearings and Testimony
Students
will learn the techniques which enable them to properly testify in
court hearings. This includes proper dress, voice qualities, and use of
body language. The student will also learn how to control their
emotions while on the stand and what information is acceptable to
present in a courtroom.
Search and Seizure
This
class will provide the student a working knowledge of their
constitutional rights and their rights under the Indian Civil Rights
Act as it pertains to their duties. The role of the probation officer
requires frequent searches of the offender, their home, vehicle, etc.
Topics will include the search condition, the standards of proof,
warrantless searches and how to handle seized property. Students will
also learn what authority is provided to them regarding the power to
search as Probation Officers.
Alternative Sentencing
This
class shows the students the variety of alternative sentencing options
that are available for offenders rather than just jail as a penalty.
The use of creative alternative programs keeps an offender at home,
employed or in school and in treatment while still serving sanctions
for the conviction. Technology such as GPS tracking and home based
alcohol tests are also discussed.
Additional Course Topics
- Ethics
- Interstate Compact
- Domestic Violence
- Substance Abuse
- Communicable Diseases and Bloodborne Pathogens
- Strength Based Programs
- Native Youth Gangs
- Anti-Indian Movement