Retired chief US probation officer Anthony C. Harvilla of Tresckow, Pennsylvania was presented with a citation by US District Court Judge Yvette Kane in recognition of his contributions to the Middle District of Pennsylvania’s offender re-entry program. Harvilla, who retired earlier this year after serving the Pennsylvania correctional system and US courts for a full quarter century, was presented with the citation during a formal ceremony in Harrisburg at the Ronald Reagan Federal Courthouse.
Sponsored School(s)
Kane noted Harvilla’s “extraordinary contributions to the Court Assisted Re-entry Program (CARE)” which included, in part, the production of a documentary that was used to recruit participants into the program as well as well as his involvement in the expansion of the CARE program to include mentors from the Rotary Clubs and to generate national exposure for CARE.
Harvilla spent a significant portion of his career as a probation officer and eventually became the first work release coordinator in the Carbon County sheriff’s office before being promoted to the office of chief US probation officer. During his tenure, he played a significant role in developing the CARE program which was formed to help high-risk offenders make a smoother re-integration into their respective communities after being in prison for such extended periods.
Harvilla was also instrumental in garnering national exposure for the CAR program which has also received several awards and commendations for its innovative techniques and success in assisting high-risk offenders.
According to Kane, many of Harvilla’s colleagues have described him as the consummate professional and “someone who probation officers can look to for inspiration and leadership in this challenging but rewarding and critical industry.” The documentary was produced with the help of a local university film studies program.
Harvilla is currently enjoying his retirement in Tresckow where he lives with his wife and two daughters.