News Coverage
O.C. Juvenile Hall Youth Help Rescue Dogs Overcome Trauma, Train Them for Forever Homes
From the Daily Pilot.
ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. – December 18, 2024 – Surviving a 20-year sentence for his role in a 1997 gang-related homicide in Westminster forced Nhut Thanh Vo to disassociate from his emotions. By the time he was three-fourths of the way through his prison stint, he was starving for an opportunity to form a relationship with another soul.
A program that taught inmates dog handling by pairing them with pets rescued from shelters allowed him to bond with another living being for the first time in over 16 years.
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“Vulnerability is not a good trait in prison. But with a dog, you need to be vulnerable. That’s the only way you can connect with them.”
2024 CPOC Award Winners: Leaders in Safety & Accountability for California Probation
Learn more about the winners of the 2024 CPOC Awards from earlier this month, and the incredible work that they are doing in their communities as part of probation across the state of California.
Mono County Probation Department Employee Receives Statewide Recognition
From the Mammoth Times.
MONO COUNTY, Calif. – December 12, 2024 – Darcie Perkins, Behavioral Health Services Coordinator III for Mono County, was recognized at the 2024 annual Chief Probation Officers of California Awards Ceremony as the organization’s Central Region Employee of the Year.
“Darcie exemplifies the dedication and leadership that drives our department forward,” said Karin Humiston, Mono County’s Chief Probation Officer. “Her exceptional ability to connect clients with vital services, foster collaboration between agencies, and provide hands-on support reflects her deep commitment to improving lives and helping enhance safety in our communities.”
As the primary liaison for mental health services, Perkins coordinates psychiatric and psychological assessments, substance abuse programs, and individual and residential treatment services. Her leadership role in the Reentry Committee — a multi-disciplinary team that meets weekly to plan stable living and resource connections for probationers exiting custody or treatment — is instrumental in fostering successful transitions for both adult and juvenile clients, according to the department.
Statewide Award Presented to Tehama County Probation Officer
From the Corning Observer.
Red Bluff, Calif. – December 11, 2024 – Tehama County Probation Officer Oscar Morales, who is a dual member of the Probation Business Managers Association (PBMA) and Probation Information Technology Managers Association (PITMA), was honored at the 2024 Annual Chief Probation Officers of California Awards Ceremony with the Affiliate Employee of the Year Award.
“Oscar’s willingness to take initiative and go above and beyond to enhance our work in probation is exemplary,” said Tehama County Chief Officer Pamela Gonzalez, Chief Probation Officer of Tehama County. “His expertise and dedication are invaluable to Tehama County Probation and help make our community safer for everyone.”
Morales helped lead initiatives to modernize the affiliate organizations and embraced the challenges with enthusiasm and skill. Creating backend systems and enhancing technology for probation work, he contributes fundamentally to the work of probation to create safer communities and help connect offenders to transformative rehabilitation services, she added.
County Highlight: Law Enforcement and Children Celebrate the Holidays Early at Shop with a Cop 2024
From County of San Diego Communications Office.
SAN DIEGO, Calif. – December 9, 2024 – San Diego County Probation hosted this year’s Shop with a Cop Dec. 7 as a way to spread holiday magic to more than 300 children selected by area schools to participate in the festive annual event.
“As the Probation Chief, I can tell you our officers and staff participate in this event every year because it brings them so much joy to be part of this special day for the children in our communities,” San Diego Chief Probation Officer Tamika Nelson said. “Our department really enjoyed hosting this year’s event and I want to thank all the officers, staff, and elves who helped raise funds and organize the event, and, of course, our generous donors.”
The event, which started in 1994, includes more than 300 officers from over 30 local, state and federal law enforcement agencies in San Diego County. All the officers and law enforcement staff volunteer to take part in the fun event.
Sonoma County Judge & Director of Juvenile Hall Receive Statewide Awards from Chief Probation Officers of California
From County of Sonoma.
SONOMA COUNTY, Calif. – December 10, 2024 – The presiding judge of Sonoma County Superior Court and the director of Sonoma County’s Juvenile Hall were recently honored by a statewide group of probation officers for their efforts to improve the local justice system.
Sonoma County Superior Court Presiding Judge Shelly J. Averill was recognized as Judicial Officer of the Year by the Chief Probation Officers of California at its annual awards ceremony. Kilee Willson, director of Sonoma County’s Juvenile Hall, received the group’s Joseph Frontella Award, which recognizes individuals who exemplify leadership, compassion and dedication in juvenile justice.
Judge Averill was honored for leadership and innovation that significantly impacted community corrections and the justice system.
“Judge Averill exemplifies the highest standards of judicial excellence, guiding the Sonoma County Superior Court through challenges with strength, compassion and innovation,” said Vanessa Fuchs, Sonoma County’s Chief Probation Officer. “Her dedication is a true gift to Sonoma County and our justice system.”
Yuba Probation Manager honored by statewide group
From The Appeal-Democrat.
YUBA COUNTY, Calif. – December 10, 2024 – Lisa Cunningham, a manager with the Yuba County Probation Department, was honored at the 2024 Annual Chief Probation Officers of California (CPOC) Awards Ceremony with the affiliate employee of the year award.
Lisa was recognized for her dedication, adaptability and leadership as the Yuba County Probation’s business systems analyst, contributing to the success of the Probation IT Managers Association (PITMA) and Yuba County Probation.
“Lisa is an incredible member of our team,” said Matt Ricardy, Chief Probation Officer for Yuba County. “Her dedication, ability to adapt and solve challenges, and attention to detail make her an invaluable asset to our department. She consistently goes above and beyond, ensuring the success of our programs and the well-being of our department. She is well deserving of this statewide recognition for her work.”
2024 CPOC Award Winners: Leaders in Safety & Accountability for California Probation
Learn more about the winners of the 2024 CPOC Awards from earlier this month, and the incredible work that they are doing in their communities as part of probation across the state of California.
County Highlight: ‘Shop with a Cop’: Hundreds of San Diego Children Treated to Free Shopping Spree
From Times of San Diego.
SAN DIEGO, Calif. – December 9, 2024 – Over the weekend, San Diego County Probation hosted the annual “Shop with a Cop” event that brought smiles and holiday cheer to more than 300 children selected by area schools, officials announced Monday.
The children were paired with law enforcement officers and taken to SeaWorld, where they were treated to breakfast and a special dolphin show put on just for them, officials said.
Afterward, the children and their law enforcement “partners” caravaned to Target, where each child was given a $200 gift card to shop for themselves and their families. Volunteers helped make the holidays special by wrapping gifts for the children to share with their loved ones.
Santa even made an appearance and was available for visits and photos, according to organizers.
The event, which started in 1994, involved more than 300 officers from over 30 local, state and federal law enforcement agencies in San Diego County. All the officers and law enforcement staff volunteer to take part in the heartwarming event.
“As the probation chief, I can tell you our officers and staff participate in this event every year because it brings them so much joy to be part of this special day for the children in our communities,” San Diego Chief Probation Officer Tamika Nelson said. “Our department really enjoyed hosting this year’s event and I want to thank all the officers, staff and elves who helped raise funds and organize the event, and, of course, our generous donors.”
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Read the full article here.
The O.C. Probation Department’s Division Director Receives Statewide Recognition
From the New Santa Ana.
ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. – December 9, 2024 – The Orange County Probation Department’s Division Director Scott Chandler was recognized at the 2024 Annual Chief Probation Officers of California (CPOC) Awards Ceremony with the Affiliate Employee of the Year Award for the California Association of Probation Services Administrators (CAPSA). This honor highlights Scott’s exemplary leadership, dedication, and significant contributions to advancing the probation profession in California.
“Scott Chandler exemplifies the very best of Orange County Probation. His unwavering dedication, innovative thinking, and ability to foster meaningful connections with both staff and the individuals we serve is truly inspiring,” said Daniel Hernandez, Chief Probation Officer, Orange County Probation Department. “We are beyond proud to celebrate his exceptional contributions and this well-deserved statewide recognition.”
Tehama County’s Oscar Morales Recognized with Statewide Award
From the Red Bluff Daily News.
Red Bluff, Calif. – December 7, 2024 – Dual member of the Probation Business Managers Association and Probation Information Technology Managers Association Oscar Morales has been honored at the 2024 Annual Chief Probation Officers of California Awards Ceremony with the Affiliate Employee of the Year Award.
This recognition celebrates Morales’ outstanding initiative, technical expertise, and dedication to advancing the mission of the probation profession.
“Oscar’s willingness to take initiative and go above and beyond to enhance our work in probation is exemplary,” Tehama County Chief Probation Officer Pamela Gonzalez said. “His expertise and dedication are invaluable to Tehama County Probation and help make our community safer for everyone.”
Malkia Crowder Honored with Affiliate Employee of the Year Award
From the Contra Costa News.
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, Calif. – December 6, 2024 – Training Coordinator for the California Association of Probation Institutions Administrators (CAPIA) and dedicated leader within the Contra Costa County Probation Department Malkia Crowder, has been recognized at the 2024 Annual Chief Probation Officers of California Awards Ceremony with the Affiliate Employee of the Year Award.
This prestigious award celebrates Malkia’s exceptional contributions to advancing professional development and fostering a diverse and inclusive community within probation services.
“Malkia’s leadership in our department and in the statewide association of CAPIA has been nothing short of exceptional,” said Esa Ehmen-Krause, Chief Probation Officer for Contra Costa County. “Her ability to inspire, educate, and empower others has greatly enhanced the skills and confidence of those she trains, and her commitment to investing in our justice-involved youth is unmatched. We are incredibly fortunate to have Malkia in our department and she is well deserving of this statewide recognition.”
Nevada County Probation Employee Recognized for Establishing Automobile Donation Program
From the The Union.
NEVADA COUNTY, Calif. – December 5, 2024 – Nevada County Probation Department Officer Karyn Mueller was recognized at the 2024 Annual Chief Probation Officers of California (CPOC) Awards Ceremony as the Sacramento Region Employee of the Year, honoring her tireless dedication to improving opportunities for youth and her innovative approach to community service in Nevada County.
“Karyn has become the go-to leader for juvenile services in our community, managing and spearheading transformative initiatives for youth,” said Jeff Goldman Chief Probation Officer for Nevada County. “Her commitment to expanding opportunities for at-risk youth makes her an invaluable member of our community and department.”
A passionate advocate for youth development, Officer Mueller leveraged her extensive experience and social capital to establish Beyond the Barriers California, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping transitional-aged youth (18-25), with a focus on former foster youth, access to reliable transportation. Recognizing the significant barrier that lack of transportation presents in rural areas, Officer Mueller mobilized a network of youth-focused community members to serve on her nonprofit’s board, partnered with local repair shops, and collaborated with the high school advanced auto shop.
…This holistic approach ensures youth are set up for success as they transition toward independence, accessing education and employment opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach.
Del Norte County Probation Officer Named North Region Employee of the Year
From the KRCR.
DEL NORTE COUNTY, Calif. – December 4, 2024 – Emily Johnson, a Supervising Deputy Probation Officer, has been named the North Region Employee of the Year at the 2024 Annual Chief Probation Officers of California Awards Ceremony.
Johnson was celebrated for her significant impact on her team and her unwavering dedication to helping young people overcome challenges and build brighter futures…
“Emily’s exceptional work ethic and ability to rise above challenges is inspirational,” said Lonnie Reyman, Chief Probation Officer for Del Norte County, who nominated Johnson for the award. “She sets a standard for leadership and dedication, balancing the demands of her position with a deep sense of compassion for the youth she serves and the betterment of our community.”
Southern California Juvenile Justice Leader Honored with Statewide Recognition
From the KTLA.
SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. – December 4, 2024 – The principal of a San Bernardino school for students in juvenile detention has been honored with an esteemed award for her services.
Monica Hatcher, the principal of the Central Valley Juvenile Detention and Assessment Center and A.R.I.S.E. Secure Youth Treatment Facility, was presented with the Tim Fitzharris Award, which honors a non-probation professional who has made an extraordinary contribution to corrections, recognizing their impact on individuals, communities and systems of care.
Hatcher, whose career in the justice system spans over two decades, showed “dedication to improving the lives of at-risk youth” through transformative programs, according to Chief Probation Officers of California.
California Probation Chiefs Elect New President and Executive Officers for 2025
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).
Contra Costa County Probation Hosts the 8th Annual Range Instructor Coalition Statewide Meeting
Contra Costa County Probation had the distinct honor of hosting the 8th Annual Range Instructor Coalition Statewide Meeting earlier this fall, a premier event that brought together Probation representatives and firearms instructors from across California. This dynamic coalition serves as a vital committee for sharing knowledge, fostering collaboration, and addressing key topics related to probation training, firearms use, and safety protocols.
Over the course of the meeting, participants engaged in meaningful discussions on critical issues, including the latest legislative updates and best practices for training, equipment, and firearms. These conversations aimed to ensure that probation departments statewide are equipped with the tools and knowledge necessary to operate effectively and safely.
Empowering Presentations and an Inspiring Chief Panel
One of the highlights of the event was a thought-provoking presentation by The Counseling Team International, titled “Resilience in Crisis: Managing Critical Incident Stress After Officer-Related Shootings.” This session provided invaluable insights and strategies for managing stress and maintaining mental health after high-stakes, traumatic incidents—an issue of growing importance in the probation field.
Another standout moment was the Chief Panel discussion, expertly moderated by Karen Pank, Executive Director of the Chief Probation Officers of California (CPOC). The panel featured an impressive lineup of leaders:
Probation Spotlight: Veteran Treatment Courts Successful Across the State
Collaborative Courts are comprised of multi-disciplinary teams, who work to be responsive to the needs of the participants. They allow participants an opportunity to participate in evidence based treatment models as an alternative to traditional court processing. This week, in honor of Veterans Day, we are highlighting Veterans Treatment Court success stories from several counties.
SACRAMENTO COUNTY PROBATION:
While post-traumatic stress disorder affects millions of people, veterans suffer at higher rates than civilians, three times more for those who were deployed. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 11-20% of veterans who served in operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom have PTSD in a given year. Approximately 12% of Gulf War veterans and an estimated 30% of Vietnam Veterans struggle with PTSD. Symptoms include persistent flashbacks or nightmares, difficulty with emotional regulation, particularly anger management, and reckless or self-destructive behavior. Through California’s Veterans’ Treatment Court, veterans facing criminal charges may be eligible for treatment rather than punishment.
“The most common [struggle] for vets is PTSD [and] TBIs, which are traumatic brain injuries, just from service. That can turn into addictions, can turn into anger issues, and those can turn into other criminal activities if it goes far enough,” says Kevin Cadena, senior deputy probation officer with Sacramento County.
Chief Probation Officer Jeff Thomson was recognized by the Inyo County Board of Supervisors
From Sierra Wave.
INYO COUNTY, November 7, 2024 - Chief Probation Officer Jeff Thomson was recognized by the Inyo County Board of Supervisors this week for reaching 25 years of service to the county. He was joined by the Board, CAO Nate Greenberg, County Counsel John-Carl Vallejo, and his wife, Tawni, and mother, Joyce.
Statement from CPOC President Chief Kelly Vernon on the Passage of Proposition 36
Sacramento, California, November 5, 2024 – The Chief Probation Officers of California (CPOC) issued the following statement from their President, Chief Kelly Vernon, regarding the passage of Proposition 36.
