What action should you take if you suspect an offender has committed a new criminal offense?

When you suspect that an offender has committed a new criminal offense, the appropriate action is to contact law enforcement. This step is crucial because law enforcement is equipped to handle investigations, gather evidence, and apprehend individuals if necessary. Your responsibility as a correctional or probation officer extends to ensuring community safety and compliance with the law, and involving law enforcement allows for a proper and formal response to the suspected criminal activity.

In contrast, while documenting the issue in the offender's file is important for record-keeping and may be part of ongoing supervision, it does not actively address the potential crime nor does it engage the necessary authorities. Confronting the offender directly can lead to various complications, including the potential for confrontation and the offender's denial of wrongdoing, which could hinder any formal investigation. Filing a motion with the court may be relevant in different contexts, such as a violation of probation, but it does not directly address the immediate need to involve law enforcement regarding a new offense.