What is a Presentence Investigation?
A PSI is a report prepared by a probation officer about a person convicted of a felony. The investigator inquires into the defendant’s criminal history, work history, childhood, mental condition, drug and alcohol use and abuse, and relationships. The report will also contain comments from the crime victim and other interested parties. It will calculate the cost of the crime. It will contain the defendant’s version of events and statement about the crime. It will comment on what kind of treatment the defendant might benefit from. Finally, it will make a recommendation as to what the sentence should be: probation, prison or a fine.
