Allegheny County Pretrial Services - Pittsburgh, PA

Allegheny County Pretrial Services

Agency Mission and Role

Allegheny County Pretrial Services, located in the Manor Building in downtown Pittsburgh, is a critical component of the Fifth Judicial District's Criminal Division. This agency is responsible for providing the court with accurate, timely information to assist in making informed decisions regarding bond, competency, and treatment for defendants. Furthermore, the agency is tasked with promoting offender compliance with court orders and ensuring appearance at scheduled hearings. They operate as a neutral entity, balancing the rights of the defendant with the safety of the community.

Key Departments and Programs

The agency is comprised of several specialized units designed to manage different aspects of the pretrial process:

• Bail Investigative Unit: Conducts initial interviews and investigations of defendants at the Allegheny County Jail to provide background information for bail determination.
• Pretrial Supervision Unit: Monitors defendants who have been released pending trial, ensuring they adhere to conditions such as drug testing, check-ins, and travel restrictions.
• ARD Unit (Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition): Supervises first-time, non-violent offenders placed in this diversionary program, which can lead to record expungement upon successful completion.
• Alcohol Highway Safety Program (AHSP): Administers Court Reporting Network (CRN) evaluations and coordinates Alcohol Highway Safety School for DUI offenders.
• Ignition Interlock Services: Manages the installation and monitoring of breathalyzer devices in vehicles for eligible offenders.

Location and Access

The main administrative offices are situated on the 4th floor of the Manor Building on Forbes Avenue. This central downtown location is easily accessible via public transit. Visitors should be aware that this is a government facility; proper identification is required for entry, and all visitors are subject to security protocols. The agency works closely with the Courts of Common Pleas and Magisterial District Judges throughout the county.