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From the Daily Democrat.

July 24, 2026 — Yolo County recently recognized Probation Services Week, observed July 19 through July 25, by honoring the probation officers and staff whose work strengthens public safety, supports victims, promotes accountability and helps people make lasting change in their lives.

“Yolo County’s probation staff play an important role in helping justice-involved community members build toward a better life,” Chair of the Yolo County Board of Supervisors Sheila Allen said. “My colleagues and I were glad to take some time…to recognize the work our probation team does to create safer and healthier communities.”

The work of probation reaches far beyond traditional supervision. Yolo County probation professionals work in the field, support victims, enforce court-ordered conditions and help people address the issues that brought them into the justice system.

Yolo County probation officers conduct thousands of field and office visits, make hundreds of referrals to treatment and support services and help connect participants with thousands of hours of programming….

“I am deeply proud of our staff, whose compassion, professionalism and resilience define this department,” Yolo County Chief Probation Officer Rachelle Gayton said. “Whether they are working in the field, preparing reports for the court, supporting victims or connecting people with services, they show up every day committed to meaningful, often life-changing work.”

Probation staff also oversee daily operations at the juvenile detention facility, working closely with families, schools and service providers to deliver programming that supports youth well‑being, accountability and successful reentry into the community.

These professionals work closely with courts, schools, law enforcement agencies, behavioral health providers, community organizations and local governments to support programs addressing substance use, mental health needs, housing instability and barriers to education and employment. Probation officers do all of that all while holding people accountable for meeting the terms of their supervision.

“Public safety and community health go hand in hand. Probation professionals are essential partners in advancing behavioral health, supporting recovery and connecting people with the services they need to build healthier, more stable lives,” said Director of the Yolo County Health and Human Services Agency Monica Morales. “Their work strengthens families, improves well-being and shows that accountability and rehabilitation are both essential to community wellness.”