Probation/Parole Officers' Work Honored This Week

Work in Tennessee Communities Promotes Public Safety

NASHVILLE --The work of probation and parole officers across Tennessee is being recognized this week.  This annual observance coincides with the national one that recognizes the role of probation, parole and commuity corrections professionals in protecting public safety in communities across America.

Board of Probation and Parole (BOPP) Chairman Charles Traughber said, "Tennessee’s communities are safer because of the work done daily by probation, parole and community corrections officers. These officers hold offenders accountable for their crimes. They work to serve crime victims. They also monitor offender progress and emphasize that offenders can achieve more productive, law-abiding lives through counseling, training, education and employment.” 

Statistics gathered at the end of June 2008 showed BOPP officers were supervising 58,467 offenders, including 10,617 parolees and 47,850 probationers. Community corrections officers supervised an additional 6,827 offenders placed on alternative sentences by judges.

BOPP Executive Director Bo Irvin said, "The justice system depends on the work done by these officers.  Their jobs grow more challenging every day.  But as professionals, they recognize that their work with offenders is a vital link in keeping communities safe."

Probation and parole officers, as well as community corrections officers, supervise and counsel offenders to make sure they complete the requirements ordered as conditions for release. They also encourage and motivate offenders get the education, job training and life skills courses that will help them lead successful, productive lives in society. 

For more information on Probation, Parole and Community Corrections Officers Week, contact Melissa McDonald at 615.532.8149.

The Board of Probation and Parole (www.tn.gov/bopp/) is an independent seven-member board whose members are appointed by the Governor. The Board is charged with the responsibility of deciding which eligible felony offenders will be granted parole and released from incarceration to community-based supervision. Along with the supervision of those granted parole, the Board is also responsible for supervising felony offenders who are placed on probation by criminal courts.