Fresno County’s Chief Kirk Haynes named Chief Probation Officer of the Year for 2025
From the FOX 26 and Hanford Sentinel.
December 9, 2025 – Chief Kirk Haynes of the Fresno County Probation Department has been honored as the 2025 Chief Probation Officer of the Year by the Chief Probation Officers of California.
The award, which is rarely given, recognizes extraordinary leadership and transformative contributions to the probation profession.
The last award was presented nearly a decade ago in 2016.
CPOC President Chief Steve Jackson praised Haynes, saying, “Chief Haynes represents the very best of our profession. He is a leader who inspires trust, elevates people, and strengthens systems wherever he serves.” Jackson highlighted Haynes’ integrity and leadership, which have significantly shaped Fresno County’s success and guided statewide efforts through challenging policy landscapes.
Chief Haynes expressed his gratitude, stating, “I am deeply honored by this recognition from my peers. This award reflects the collective effort of an incredible team in Fresno County and the broader probation family across California.”
His influence extends statewide as Chair of CPOC’s Legislative Committee, where he is a respected voice in policy discussions affecting community corrections and youth justice.
Chief Haynes assumed leadership of the Fresno County Probation Department in 2018 at a time marked by operational strain, low morale, and a need for renewed vision. Under his guidance, the department rebuilt its organizational foundation, strengthened its culture, and restored trust. His work has centered on professionalism, integrity, service, and accountability across every level of the department, a release stated.
Chief Haynes also represents California probation before the Board of State and Community Corrections, where he has helped guide major system reforms, including Title 15 regulatory revisions. These efforts shape standards, operations, and oversight for county facilities. Haynes is known across the state for his fairness, thoughtful approach, and ability to unify stakeholders while achieving meaningful outcomes, according to colleagues.
“Chief Haynes is a leader people listen to, not because he demands it, but because he earns it,” Jackson added. “He exemplifies servant leadership and stands as the kind of Chief every department hopes to have. He is a man of faith, principled, trusted, and deeply committed to people and community.”
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