This bill amends several sections of Nebraska's Revised Statutes to enhance the authority and responsibilities of probation officers regarding the custody of probationers and juveniles. It requires peace officers to assume custody of probationers when requested by probation officers, specifically in situations where there is reasonable cause to believe that a probationer has violated probation conditions or poses a danger. The bill introduces new language stating that "if called on by a probation officer, a peace officer shall arrest and assume custody of the probationer," thereby clarifying the roles of law enforcement in these scenarios. Additionally, it mandates that peace officers take juveniles into temporary custody upon request from probation officers under similar circumstances.

The bill also emphasizes the use of graduated responses for managing probation violations, particularly for juveniles, and establishes a framework for sanctions and incentives to encourage compliance with probation terms. It allows probation officers to impose administrative sanctions or seek custodial sanctions based on the severity of the violation and the juvenile's risk level. The bill aims to streamline the process for handling probation violations while ensuring that the rights of probationers and juveniles are respected, including their right to decline to acknowledge violations. Overall, the legislation seeks to improve the administration of justice by enhancing collaboration between probation officers and law enforcement.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 29-2266.01, 29-2266.02, 43-248, 43-286.01