Unit Description:  This Alternative Sentencing Program contracts and performs landscape maintenance work for non-profit and government agencies to allow Court-ordered defendants an opportunity to perform work duties in lieu of incarceration. This program provides offenders a sense of social responsibility and self-reliance, and allows them to remain out-of-custody and to work and/or attend school and keep family units intact.

Enrollment Criteria: Referrals are received from: the State Courts located in Yolo County; the Yolo County Sheriff's Department; agencies located in other counties when the offender was convicted there but needs to do the work in Yolo County.

Financial Support for the Alternative Sentencing Program: This is largely derived from two sources. First, all adult participants pay a user fee prior to starting work. Next, work service contracts with non-profit parties are in place wherein the "customer" pays a per day fee for a supervised crew of 9-14 workers. The most common work is that of grounds-maintenance. Transportation, insurance and all equipment needed (mowers, etc.) for the job is provided by the program. Other types of work might be: site clean-up; litter removal; painting; general labor.

If you might be interested in hiring a work crew, call (530) 406-5304 or otherwise contact the Probation Department.

Other Services Provided by the Alternative Sentencing Program: The Probation Alternative Sentencing Program has contracted services with some county sites. Although no direct income to the program itself is received, nonetheless, tax dollars are saved because the County would otherwise be required to hire additional staff or contract with private firms to get the work done. Through this effort, the County benefits in cost savings and beautification of the community landscapes and buildings. The Work Program also assists with various charitable events from time to time and no fees are charged.