Abstract
Concern over the victimization of probation and parole workers in the line of duty has recently resulted in legislative proposals (e.g. , enhanced sentences for assault on workers) and policy initiatives intended to improve their protection. Prior to the research reported here there has been no published information describing the extent and nature of the phenomenon. Our survey revealed that 38% of the total probation/parole workforce in Pennsylvania have been victimized (e.g., assaulted, threatened, intimidated) at least once during their careers. When only probation and parole officers who actively supervise cases were considered, the rate of victimization rose to about 50%. Data generated by the survey demonstrate that the victimization of probation/parole workers in the line of duty is a serious and pervasive occupational health problem about which something needs to be done.
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