From the Nevada County.

Nevada County, Calif. – July 30, 2026 –  Deputy Probation Officer Aaron Carver, named the Nevada County Probation Office’s Sworn Officer of the Year, says people often ask what probation officers do. “Are we law enforcement? Counselors? Social workers with a badge?” he said. “It kind of depends on the day.” 

Carver and Chief Probation Officer Jeff Goldman shared their perspectives during Tuesday’s Board of Supervisors meeting, where the Board approved a resolution proclaiming July 19-25, 2026, as Probation Services Week in Nevada County. 

Carver, who has served with the department since 2018, supervises adults at high risk of reoffending, including individuals reintegrating into the community after sex offense convictions. His work includes home, workplace and field visits. 

“At the end of the day, we’re working with people often at the lowest point in their lives,” Carver said. “The strongest way to help someone change is to support them.” 

The job is demanding, Goldman said. Probation officers regularly enter the homes of people convicted of serious crimes, often without knowing what they will encounter. Along with training in firearms and officer safety, they receive instruction in motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral interventions, family therapy, risk assessments and other evidence-based practices. 

“Probation officers must balance compassion with accountability, enforcement with rehabilitation and officer safety with a belief that people can do better,” Goldman said. 

Supervisors thanked Probation staff for their dedication to helping people rebuild their lives. “It’s more than just checking in on the people, it’s also caring what their outcomes are,” said Board Chair Lisa Swarthout.  

Read more here.

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