SACRAMENTO, Calif., December 7, 2023 – The Chief Probation Officers of California (CPOC) today announced the election of its 2024 executive officers: President Chief Kelly Vernon (Tulare County), Vice President Chief Steve Jackson (San Joaquin County), and Secretary/Treasurer Chief Esa Ehmen-Krause (Contra Costa County).

“Probation is crucial to a successful justice system, and I am proud to be representing and serving in this important role. Thank you for selecting me to lead an organization that plays such an important role in our communities by working tirelessly to transform the lives of people in our justice system and make our communities safer for all,” said Tulare County Chief Kelly Vernon, newly elected President of the Chief Probation Officers of California. “I am honored to be given this opportunity to continue guiding policies and practices in prevention, community-based corrections, and rehabilitation of justice-involved individuals in our communities.”  

Chief Kelly Vernon brings over 30 years of law enforcement experience to her role as CPOC President. Prior to her appointment, she served as Chief Probation Officer for Kings County. She was appointed Kings County’s Chief Probation Officer in January 2015, and Tulare County Probation Chief in March 2023. She will be the first Probation Chief from Tulare County to serve as CPOC President. 

“I have no doubt that Chief Kelly Vernon will be an exemplary leader for CPOC,” said Chief Jennifer Branning, immediate past President of the Chief Probation Officers of California. “For years she has been a dedicated leader within the probation profession.  I have no doubt her visionary approach and ability to work collaboratively will be a huge value to CPOC and equips her well for this role.”

The Chief Probation Officers of California (CPOC) is an association of all 58 counties with a shared identity as law enforcement leaders. CPOC is committed to a research-based approach to public safety that promotes positive behavior change. Their leadership guides policy and practice in prevention, community-based corrections, secure detention for youth, and direct human services. CPOC aims to prevent crime and delinquency, reduce recidivism, restore victims, and promote healthy families and communities.

For more information about CPOC, please go to www.cpoc.org.

Media Contact: Laura Dixon laura@cpoc.org 510-384-3020

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