probation officer

American  

noun

1. an officer who investigates and reports on the conduct of offenders who are free on probation.

---

probation officer British  

noun

1. an officer of a court who supervises offenders placed on probation and assists and befriends them

---

Etymology

Origin of probation officer

An Americanism dating back to 1895–1900

Example Sentences

One probation officer told BBC News: "We can't cope now, God knows how we'll cope if these recommendations are accepted. I'm already looking for another job. It's just not possible to do all this work."

From BBC • May 22, 2025

“It’s almost as if the probation officer is one of the kids,” Gunsberg said.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 21, 2025

The court heard Vernon had described being "young and scared", expressing remorse to a probation officer and apologising to the man and his family.

From BBC • Mar. 20, 2025

He had pending violations for failing to report to his probation officer and violating the terms of his probation, she said.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 14, 2025

The only person who insisted on visiting regularly was Garvey, the stocky youth probation officer, who stopped by the detention center almost daily.

From "Touching Spirit Bear" by Ben Mikaelsen