The Work Alternative Program was instituted in April of 1991. Since it’s inception the program has proven to be a successful and positive alternative to incarceration. Many of the courts along with the District Attorney’s Office, and Probation have utilized the services of the Work Alternative Program and have found it to be very beneficial.

According to New York State law, a judge may sentence non- violent offenders to perform unpaid services in lieu of incarceration, after evaluating such criteria as previous criminal history and severity of current crime, the offender is recommended to this alternative criminal justice program. This service may be completed as a condition of probation, or as a requirement of conditional discharge. The sentencing judge determines the number of hours to be worked, in accordance with the schedule established by the Sheriff’s Department.