Sacramento, Calif. – December 4, 2024 – The Chief Probation Officers of California (CPOC) today announced the elections of its 2025 executive officers: President Chief Steve Jackson (San Joaquin County), Vice President Chief Esa Ehmen-Krause (Contra Costa County), and Secretary/Treasurer Chief Izen Locatelli (Mendocino County).

“I am honored to lead CPOC as we continue to adapt and elevate the vital role probation plays in our communities,” said San Joaquin County Probation Chief Steve Jackson. “Throughout my career, I’ve witnessed firsthand the profound impact probation can have on individuals, families, and the safety of our communities. I look forward to working alongside my colleagues to advance policies and practices that promote safety, healing, and opportunity for all Californians.”

Chief Jackson began his career in 1998 as a Probation Officer in Stanislaus County. Over the years, he has served in nearly every capacity within probation, including assignments in the Street Gang Unit with the Modesto Police Department, High-Risk Offender Unit, AB 109 Realignment Unit, and Professional Standards Unit. He was the Superintendent of the Juvenile Hall and Juvenile Commitment Facility in Stanislaus County before joining the San Joaquin County Probation Department, where he served as Assistant Chief in 2019 and was appointed Chief Probation Officer in 2020.

“Chief Jackson exemplifies what it means to lead with integrity, vision, and a relentless focus on service,” said Chief Kelly Vernon. “His deep understanding of probation’s challenges and opportunities, coupled with his commitment to innovation and collaboration, makes him the perfect leader to guide CPOC into 2025. I know he will make significant strides for our profession and our communities.”

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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