The Presentence Investigation Report (PSI), which is prepared by a Probation Officer, is perhaps the most important document in the Federal criminal sentencing process, frequently providing the basis for important sentencing decisions made by the Court. Hence, it is essential that Probation Officers function as independent fact finders for the Court and provide the Court with relevant, unbiased information. Moreover, since the advent of the Federal sentencing guidelines, Probation Officers have become known as "specialists" in the area of guidelines sentencing.

Though the primary purpose of the PSI is to assist the Court in its sentencing function, the report is also a valuable resource to the Bureau of Prisons and the Probation Office. The information contained in each section of the report provides these agencies with valuable intelligence, which will assist them in their respective functions. Thus, it is crucial that the Probation Officer present complete, verified information regarding the defendant's background, character, and conduct.

Therefore, the Middle District provides the Court with a comprehensive PSI in every case. Furthermore, Probation Officers in the Middle District present a thorough personal profile of each defendant, recognizing that others rely upon that information to classify prisoners and supervise offenders. These lofty goals are accomplished through the sustained efforts of the Probation Officers.