Probation Department
Mary C. Winter, Commissioner
PINS

What is a PINS?

A PINS (Person In Need of Supervision) is a child under the age of 18 who is habitually truant from school and/or is uncontrollable at home/school. Common behaviors include:

  • Runaway behavior
  • Serious pattern of disobedience
  • Physical/verbal abuse of parents
  • Truancy

Who May Start the PINS Process?

  • Parent or other person legally responsible for child
  • Police or Peace Officer
  • Person or agency with firsthand knowledge of behavior

For additional information or to schedule an appointment, contact the Onondaga County Probation Department at 435-2321, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and ask for the Intake screener. The Probation Department is located on the 6th Floor of the John H. Mulroy Civic Center, 421 Montgomery Street, Syracuse, N.Y. 13202.

Prior to having a PINS diversion case opened, you will most likely be required to attend the Parent PINS Orientation which is held bimonthly in the Central Library downtown.

FURTHER INFORMATION

John H. Mulroy Civic Center
421 Montgomery Street, 6th Floor
Syracuse, NY 13202

Phone: 315-435-2321
Fax: 315-435-3354

How Long Can Adjustment Services Last?

  • Diversion services typically last two to six months.
  • Referrals to Family Court will be rare as there is little evidence that coming under the jurisdiction of the Family Court improves outcomes for families.

When May a Case Be Referred to Family Court?

  • The child declines to participate in services
  • Adjustment services have not helped to improve the situation

What Do Probation Adjustment Services Include?

  • A determination that the case is appropriate for Probation Intake services
  • Assessment by Probation Officer
  • Referrals for further assessment or services including mediation, anger management, counseling, substance abuse, and other community resources
  • Implementation and monitoring of a case plan to resolve the complaint
  • Participation in Probation Adjustment Services is voluntary. As of April 1, 2005, legislation requires that both parents and children participate in services.

NOTE TO PARENTS:

YOU ARE THE KEY TO YOUR CHILD'S SUCCESS. IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT YOU PARTICIPATE IN SERVICES WITH YOUR CHILD.

Joanne M. Mahoney
County Executive

Mary C. Winter
Commissioner of Probation