Alternative Sentencing Options at San Luis Obispo County Jail: Home Detention vs. Work Program
Trying to keep a loved one out of San Luis Obispo County Jail for a qualifying sentence? The county's Alternative Sentencing Unit (ASU) offers two main options: Home Detention (HDP) and the Alternative Work Program (AWP). Here's how they differ, what each requires, and how to apply on time.
The biggest difference between HDP and AWP? Sentence length. HDP is for sentences longer than 20 days at San Luis Obispo County Jail. AWP covers sentences of 20 days or less. Both programs are voluntary and open only to qualifying applicants - ASU staff make that call. Participation is a privilege, not a right, and the ASU decides which program fits each approved applicant.
Note: As of July 1, 2021 (California AB 1869), the ASU no longer charges fees for alternative sentencing.
Eligibility
- ✓ Sentenced to more than twenty (20) days at the San Luis Obispo County Jail
- ✓ You may not leave San Luis Obispo County while on HDP
- ✓ Your home must be accessible to program staff 24 hours a day
- ✓ You must remain at your job site throughout the workday
- ✓ Sentenced to twenty (20) days or less in the County Jail
- ✓ No physical or medical limitations that prevent heavy lifting or general labor
Plan for the language requirement early - it can slow things down if you don't. The application and all answers must be written in English. If the participant gets approved but needs help at the interview, they must bring an interpreter who is at least 18 years old. The ASU will also check whether the participant can understand verbal instructions in English.
Timing matters. Your Alternative Sentencing application and Remand/Reservation Order must reach the ASU at least 30 days before the stay-of-execution (turn-in) date on your court sentencing paperwork.
Don't submit the application alone. The ASU requires the completed Alternative Sentencing application and the Remand/Reservation Order together.
- Complete the application - Fill it out fully and save it as a file so it’s ready to send.
- Gather your court paperwork - Make sure you have the Remand/Reservation Order ready to include with the application.
- Submit both documents together - Email a single message with both documents attached to sh_asuapps@co.slo.ca.us, or mail them by USPS to: San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office, Attention: Alternative Sentencing Unit, 1585 Kansas Ave., San Luis Obispo, CA 93405.
Questions? Call the Alternative Sentencing Unit at (805) 781-4635 - they can also tell you which transfer counties are approved.
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