Gov. Eliot Spitzer recognizes Probation, Parole and Community Supervision Week

ALBANY, NY (07/16/2007)(readMedia)-- July 15-21st 2007 has been officially designated by Governor Eliot Spitzer as Probation, Parole and Community Supervision Week, a time for New York State to recognize the professionalism of probation officers, parole officers, and other community corrections professionals who valiantly work to promote public and victim safety within our communities throughout New York State. In issuing a gubernatorial proclamation, the Governor praised the contributions of these professionals in keeping our communities safe, safeguarding victims and their families, and assisting adult and juvenile offenders and at-risk youth in leading law-abiding lives.

State Director of Probation and Correctional Alternatives, Robert Maccarone, who oversees probation and other community corrections agencies, issued the following remarks:

“Community corrections professionals provide a vital public safety service to our State’s criminal and juvenile justice systems. They promote public safety through their daily actions, reduce offender recidivism and prevent victimization. Probation officers supervise over 120,000 adult offenders and 16,000 juvenile offenders and collect nearly $18 million dollars in restitution for victims each year. “

Parole Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Division of Parole George Alexander commented that “Parole officers risk their lives each day in protecting our communities throughout the State. There are also many fine men and women who work in various support roles that help make the Division successful. ”

Commissioner of the Division of Criminal Justice Services, Denise E. O’Donnell also paid tribute to these professionals saying “Recognizing the daily efforts of our probation, parole and community correction professionals is of the utmost importance. They are instrumental in New York State’s strategy to fight crime and enhance the quality of life in our communities. Each day, they work to effectuate law-abiding behavior in offenders placed under their supervision.”

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