Roles of parole officers have been described in simple terms as "cop" versus "social worker."Why are these roles actually more complex than this?

The roles are complex as parole officers often operate in
both roles simultaneously.  For instance, when a juvenile is paroled and is ordered to
complete certain requirements to avoid incarceration - 1) must attend school and obtain
credits  to graduate, 2) must not commit any additional crimes, 3) must stay clear of
drugs and alcohol, 4) must refrain from any gang affiliation.  The parole officer or
probation officer (depending on which state you reside) must assure that all of the
above requirements are being completed.  In order to make sure that the juvenile
completes his program the officer must make home visits, phone calls, interviews with
the juvenile, his family, school faculty.  His first main objective is to encourage the
young person to complete his requirements.  If he sees that the young offender is not
able to maintain sobriety or complete school he must find appropriate social programs
that will enable the juvenile to be successful.  Often a probation officer will make
referrals to the mental health facility in the area, help with employment or make
referrals for the family to social services. Often parole officers make home visits or
school visits to check on the welfare of the youth.

The
parole officer's primary job is that of a social worker, educator, counselor and
advocate.  Secondary to that, is the responsibility of the officer to maintain
accountability to the court and to ensure that the offender is keeping his court-ordered
responsibilities and does not jeopardize the safety of the community.  The officer must
also maintain his official capacity as enforcer and will when necessary recommend that
the offender's parole status be revoked.  It is a constant balancing act between helping
the offender and upholding the sanctity of the law and safety of the
community.