Work Furlough?

Question

How exactly does work furlough or work release work? How much does it cost for the participant? Any information will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

Luke, you didn't mention what city or state you are referring to. It differs greatly from one locality to another.

In my state and county, "work furlough", or a "work release program" refers to a program in the county jail system, in which minor offenders are released each workday to go to work, but must report back to the jail or the Work Furlough office at the end of every day, and spend the nights and weekends in custody. The Sheriff's Office and the courts may charge a prisoner for the administration of the program; it depends on where you are talking about.

The advantage of this type of work-release is that the prisoner is able to keep their job on the outside, support their family, and pay off court-imposed fines, reimbursement to victims, and pay for their food and bed, and the program. It usually involves minor offenders who are not a danger to others, with a connection to the community, so they are not likely to disappear. It also allows a lessening of the jail overcrowding in many city and county jails.  

Work release programs are not a matter of right; often, the inmate must make application through the probation department or other agency, and the court or the sheriff's office must approve the admission to the program. It varies greatly from one locality to another.

You asked how much does it cost? That also depends. If it is ordered by the court, then the defendant may also be paying off a court fine, or is ordered to reimburse a victim for damages. If the person is paying such things as spousal or child support directly, or through the county, then that amount may be ordered to be administered through the work program. There is an administration fee, with usually is a daily fee to cover county costs. It is usually not a large fee; it depends on the ability of the prisoner to pay, also.

So, this will give you a general idea. If you are involved in a case, check with the public defender in your area, or the courts, for further information.