What term refers to the punishment in which a convicted offender is sent to live in a community-based setting instead of prison?

The term that refers to the punishment in which a convicted offender is sent to live in a community-based setting instead of prison is probation. Probation allows individuals to remain in their communities while still being monitored and adhering to certain conditions set by the court. This form of punishment emphasizes rehabilitation and reintegration into society rather than incarceration, enabling offenders to maintain family and work ties while serving their sentence under supervision.

In contrast, parole involves the conditional release of a prisoner before they have completed their full sentence in prison, allowing them to reintegrate into the community while still being subject to supervision. Restitution refers to the compensation provided to victims for their losses, not a form of sentencing or community supervision. Confinement typically refers to imprisonment in a correctional facility, which is contrary to the community-based approach of probation.