SACRAMENTO, Calif. (November 6, 2026) – Chief Probation Officers of California issued the following statement in response to Governor Newsom issuing a sweeping executive action to commute the death sentences of all 548 inmates on the state’s death row:

The Chief Probation Officers of California (CPOC) recognize the profound and lasting impact violent crimes have on victims, their families, and communities.

Regardless of one’s position on the death penalty, decisions of this magnitude must recognize the voices and experiences of victims and the unique circumstances of each case. A sweeping approach that fails to consider individual circumstances raises serious concerns about the impact on victims and their families, who have already endured unimaginable loss.

Our justice system must remain grounded in individualized decision-making, accountability, and respect for victims at every stage of the process. Policy decisions with such far-reaching consequences must also respect our three branches of government and the checks and balances they provide, rather than substituting that for sweeping executive action.

– Chief Esa Ehmen-Krause, President, Chief Probation Officers of California (CPOC)

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