Parole officers and correctional officers both work for the Department of Corrections. Some work inside the jails and penitentiaries, and others work outside. A parole officer's responsibility involves transitioning convicted criminals back into mainstream society.

Investigation

Before the trial even begins, the parole officer helps with background checks to help the judge and the court determine appropriate sentencing. This establishes, based on prior record, the eligibility and advisability of parole for the offender.

Supervision

Parole officers supervise the rehabilitation process of offenders once they have been released back into the community. Monthly meetings, home visits and employment verification is a part of the parole officer's duties. The parole officer gives referrals to other social services the offender may need to make the transition back into society.

Enforcement

Parole agents enforce the terms of parole. They are authorized to arrest the offender if they have just cause in believing a violation of parole has occurred. They return the offender to jail to await a violation of parole hearing, which could result in the cancellation of parole and a prison or jail sentence.

Correctional Officers

Correctional officers oversee the inmates and convicts within the correctional facility. They are responsible for the safety and security of the inmates and the prison staff within the prison walls. They enforce prison rules, oversee inmate activities and intervene in the event of fights and conflicts within the prison.

Authority

Correctional officers have no authority outside the prison walls to intervene in legal matters. They are not police officers who can write tickets or arrest people for crimes. They do have supervision authority to apprehend inmates and transfer them to a different part of the institution or to prevent escapes and uprisings within the prison or jail walls.

Source:

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Career Overview

State University