Thanks for series about local probation

Thank you for the series Probation after Prison Realignment (Tribune, Dec. 13-14). I feel lucky to live in a county with a capable and caring Probation Department, which has the heart and expertise, in conjunction with state and county funds, to help parolees and low-level offenders successfully return to the community.

Assuring that ex-offenders have the opportunity to lead a productive life is good for all of us. Individuals who have support in returning to the community are much more likely to be able to fully contribute as employees, family members and friends. Furthermore, having ex-offenders reintegrate in the community costs taxpayer far less than having them returned to prison.

My thanks goes out to the Probation Department, and the other agencies, that have given these probationers a good chance for a more fulfilling life, while giving us neighbors who are striving hard to be successful members of our community.

This story was originally published January 2, 2016 at 10:22 AM with the headline "Thanks for series about local probation."