Which of the following is a responsibility of correctional officers?

Enforcing facility rules is a fundamental responsibility of correctional officers. Their primary role involves maintaining order and security within the correctional facility, which includes ensuring that inmates adhere to established regulations and protocols. This responsibility is critical for the safety of both staff and inmates, as a well-ordered environment significantly reduces the risk of conflicts and violence. Correctional officers monitor inmate behavior, identify rule violations, and implement disciplinary measures when necessary. This proactive enforcement not only facilitates smooth operations but also contributes to rehabilitation efforts by promoting a structured environment.

In contrast, serving as legal representatives, conducting psychological evaluations, and overseeing parole hearings fall outside the scope of a correctional officer's duties. Legal representation is typically handled by attorneys, while psychological evaluations are performed by trained mental health professionals. Parole hearings are generally overseen by parole boards or administrative bodies, not correctional officers. Each of these roles requires specialized training and expertise that correctional officers do not possess, further clarifying the necessity of their focus on enforcing rules within the facility.