July 28, 2000

Kraham Celebrates Probation and Parole Officer's Week

BINGHAMTON - Broome County Executive Jeffrey P. Kraham joined Edward W. Swart, Broome County's Probation Director, at a morning reception to honor the county's nearly 50 dedicated probation officers for their hard work and commitment to the community.

The reception took place in conjunction with Probation and Parole Officer's week, a national effort to recognize the unsung heroes working on the front lines with men and women on probation and parole. Based in the community, probation officers assist people on probation or parole in their homes, at their places of employment, at various treatment agencies, and in schools.

Probation officers promote public safety by helping offenders comply with court orders, assisting them with personal problems, and helping them become productive citizens. Broome County's Probation Department has been successful with more than 75% of its cases.

"I'm here this morning to commend and thank some very special people, the probation officers of Broome County," said Mr. Kraham. "They come to work every day, often under the most difficult circumstances, and offer valuable support to many people in this community."

Probation officers also conduct investigations for the various courts in Broome County. Last year, officers conducted nearly 2,000 investigations in order to offer recommendations to family and criminal courts.

The Probation Department offers valuable guidance to juvenile delinquents and troubled youth. Early intervention can help to divert these youths from the justice system and steer them away from criminal behavior as adults.

The Broome County Probation Department has two offices, one on Hawley Street, where approximately 110 offenders report daily, and the other on Water Street, with about 20 juveniles reporting daily.

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