Orange, Cali., September 11, 2024 –  In a world where driving under the influence (DUI) remains a critical public safety concern, the dedication and innovative approaches within the justice system can make a significant difference. One such individual, Ronald De La Riva, is a recently honored member of the Orange County Probation Department, whose work with DUI court programs has earned him the 2024 Outstanding Probation Officer of the Year from Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). The following insights shed light on this remarkable journey, from groundbreaking initiatives to a lasting impact on the community.

A Career Built on Commitment

The MADD 2024 Outstanding Probation Officer of the Year award was not a spontaneous accolade but rather a result of a deliberate and impactful career. De La Riva joined DUI Court as a Supervising Probation Officer (SPO) in 2013. His drive to improve DUI interventions was influenced by a department wide initiative towards evidence-based practices (EBPs). This commitment to employing effective, research-backed methods rather than traditional approaches laid the foundation for significant advancements in the DUI court program.

Redefining DUI Case Management

De La Riva’s approach to DUI cases diverged sharply from conventional methods. Emphasizing EBPs, he worked diligently to integrate comprehensive services from various agencies, including Orange County Health Care Agency, the District Attorney’s Office, the Public Defender’s Office, and the Superior Court of California.

His work was characterized by a focus on delivering the best possible services to clients, which involved both rigorous training and the implementation of research informed strategies. This experience, facilitated by the National Association of Drug Court Professionals (NADCP), helped to further refine their approach, and bolster their effectiveness in the field.

The Impact of His Work in DUI

The MADD 2024 Outstanding Probation Officer of the Year award has not only validated De La Riva’s approach but has also reinforced his commitment to EBPs in the collaborative court space. His work highlights the need for officers to have the freedom to innovate while also adhere to rigorous standards.  

De La Riva implemented the NADCP’s best practices, which includes fully randomized drug testing, reflecting a broader commitment to enhancing the DUI court system. NADCP’s efforts to advocate for evidence-based practices versus traditional methods have set a precedent for future improvements within the probation system.

The Role of Family and Community Support

A crucial aspect of the De La Riva’s approach is the role of family and community support in the rehabilitation process. De La Riva has remained committed to frequent contact with probationers, in order to prevent substance abuse relapse. He has fostered a deeper connection with clients and his work to emphasize the importance of a supportive network in helping individuals involved in DUI cases. 

Looking Ahead: Future Directions and Goals 

After retirement, De La Riva returned to the Orange County Probation Department to assist as a Deputy Probation Officer (DPO) in DUI court. De La Riva remains optimistic about the future of DUI court programs. He hopes to see the expansion of collaborative courts to other divisions of the Orange County Probation Department. His goal is to continue reducing recidivism, especially among higher-risk offenders, by leveraging the successes of the collaborative court model.  

DPO De La Riva also offers Spanish-speaking services at Harbor Court. This represents a broader effort by OC Probation to ensure that diverse community needs are met effectively. 

Conclusion

Through his journey as a DUI court pioneer, De La Riva underscores the profound impact of innovative practices and community-focused approaches in the justice system. His 35-year legacy with the Orange County Probation Department continues to inspire and drive improvements in DUI court programs, setting a high standard for future probation officers.  

About the Orange County Probation Department

As a public safety agency, the Orange County Probation Department serves the community using effective, research supported rehabilitation practices and collaborative partnerships to successfully resocialize justice involved individuals. The Probation Department is proud to serve the Orange County community. It is dedicated to continuous improvement, searching out and applying “effective and research supported practices” to assist justice involved youth, their families, and adults to successfully navigate and successfully complete probation. Further, the Probation Department assists the criminal court system through investigations, probation reports and community supervision of thousands of adult and juvenile clients on court-ordered probation or in diversion programs. The Department operates the Orange County Juvenile Hall, and two camps for youth. In addition, the Department operates two Youth Reporting Centers serving North and Central Orange County.