The adult probation staff of Carbon County is operating at a caseload of nearly four times the national average.

“The courts are seeing caseloads increasing,” Richmond Parsons, chief adult probation officer told the county commissioners last week.

In adult probation alone, his staff is supervising over 2,200 people, meaning the average caseload per probation officer is 197.

“The numbers keep going up,” Parsons said.

He commended his staff of 18 for doing what they do.

“I have the honor of working with some of the best staff out there,” Parsons said. “They really work hard every day to build safer and stronger communities.”

To honor the men and women who oversee those on probation, the Carbon County commissioners announced this week is Pretrial, Probation and Parole Supervision Week in the county.

A proclamation to commend all who work in both adult and juvenile probation reads, “Community corrections professionals are uphold the law with dignity, while recognizing the right of the public to be safeguarded from criminal activity. ... (They) are trained professionals who provide services and referrals for offenders ... promote prevention, intervention and advocacy ... provide services, support and protection for victims ... and advocate community and restorative justice.

“Community corrections professionals are a true force for positive change in their communities.”

Parsons thanked the county for recognizing his staff and the juvenile probation office.