The concepts of increased presence and heightened visibility are not necessarily limited to major metropolitan areas. An excellent example of high visibility in a fairly rural setting is found in the Permian Basin Community Supervision and Corrections Department, where officers provide supervision in easily identified and attractively designed vehicles. The experiences of the Permian Basin Community Supervision and Corrections Department raises another issue about increased presence and heightened visibility. The department selected a term that is easily understood and that conveys a clear message. Despite these successful strategies, much more can be done.
Disorder creates fear and invites serious crime.
Probation, too, has a role in order maintenance. Probably the most noteworthy order maintenance activities that probation departments have been successful in implementing are those involving community service work by offenders under court imposed supervision. Community service initiatives managed by probation departments are creative and varied, ranging from trash collection, construction, janitorial services in government buildings, to beautification projects. All these activities help to restore order. Too, they send a message to the public, a message that is not always fully understood or appreciated, that something good comes from probation.