Home: Latest News

Overview

Time to Register! CPOC & CPOC Foundation Statewide Conference 2024
Supporting Excellence in California Probation: Strategies for Success Conference

CPOC and CPOC Foundation are thrilled to announce the opening of registration for our upcoming statewide conference, Supporting Excellence in California Probation: Strategies for Success! This transformative training event aims to educate and elevate probation professionals throughout California, providing attendees opportunities to expand their knowledge, skills, and tools to enhance their probation work across the state.

The conference will delve into various topics, focusing on key areas of probation’s work, including:

  1. Support for foster youth in the juvenile justice system
  2. The juvenile justice continuum, including SB 823 implementation
  3. Working with adults in the justice system including: reentry, supervision, and connections to services
  4. Pretrial programs and services

 

Join us in Anaheim for this one-of-a-kind conference!

Dates: June 24-26, 2024

Conference Registration: Register HERE

Cost: $575 ($356.25 STC reimbursable)

Hotel Information – book your room today and save!

Anaheim Marriott
700 W Convention Way
Anaheim, CA 92802

Link to Reserve Room: Reserve HERE

Discounted Room Rate: $209 a night (not including local/state tax or fees)

The deadline to book under the discounted conference rate is June 2, 2024. Save money by booking your hotel stay today to take advantage of the discounted rate.

Schedule of Events

Sunday, June 23, 2024

5:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Welcome Reception (TBD)

Monday, June 24, 2024

8:00 am – 4:30 pm

General Sessions, Breakouts, Exhibitor Hall

Tuesday, June 25, 2024

8:00 am – 4:30 pm

General Sessions, Breakouts, Exhibitor Hall

Wednesday, June 26, 2024

8:00 am – 12:00 pm

General Sessions

STC’s pending approval for 19 STC hours

For more information contact please contact conference@cpoc.org.

Article

ICYMI: Innovative Thinking in Pretrial Services

From APPR​​. By Zerline Hughes Spruill.

Partnering with rideshare companies and transportation departments, offering virtual counseling, and unveiling an office on wheels are a few creative services offered by pretrial programs in California. Since the state piloted the creation and expansion of pretrial programs, staff are thinking outside the box to focus on helping people succeed before trial. 

“We have come to a place where the criminal legal system is finding its new normal in regard to pretrial services,” said Deirdre Benedict, a supervising analyst with the Judicial Council of California. “Courts and their pretrial service providers and jails are figuring out ways to work together and get people through the pretrial process by finding ways to support their needs. Among 58 counties, there are 58 different stories. Many things are coming to life which is exciting.”

Solano County: Putting the Shoe on the Other Foot

When Solano County Superior Court Judge Wendy Getty learned that transportation was a barrier to showing up for jury duty, she realized it was likely a challenge for people attending required court hearings, too. Following a meeting that included a Solano County Transportation Authority executive, Judge Getty garnered support that led to the Equitable Access to Justice Pilot Program, an initiative that provides rideshare options to those needing to get to court. 

The program works in two ways. First, it uses an online system that limits users’ travel via Lyft rideshare to a specific destination, like the Solano County courthouse, a clinic, or a pretrial program office. Second, it allows users up to 10 Uber rideshare vouchers. Since smartphone access can pose a challenge for some residents, the car service is arranged by a probation officer or case manager. 

“Sometimes what we ask clients to do is not that easily done,” said Cynthia K. Garcia, specialty courts manager, Superior Court of California, County of Solano. “Our director encouraged the team to take public transportation. They all decided to give it a try, and it changed their perspective on what we were ordering them to do. They learned it’s not easy. You can leave on time, but if a bus is late, you can miss your intake appointment.” 

“We see that in the counties where the bench and court leadership convene a multidisciplinary group of local stakeholders and justice partners in the development of pretrial release programs, they have been very successful,” said Benedict. “Having the Court involved and engaged is so important as the whole purpose of the funding is to provide the bench with information they need to make their independent decisions, and to be aware of the monitoring resources they have access to through their pretrial service providers.”  

Collaboration is key to making innovative ideas a reality. “Three partners [the Superior Court of California, the County of Solano, and the Solano Transportation Authority] have come together to make sure people are able to get where they need to be in order to successfully complete court programs,” Benedict said. 

Mono County: Staffing Up, Thinking Differently

“Things are really different for a lot of people,” said Leianna Eissinger, deputy probation officer with the Mono County Probation Department, which manages the county’s pretrial program. “We decided to figure out who each person is and figure out why they are in the system. We asked ourselves, is it because their income is low? Is it due to no transportation that they are not showing up for court? Quickly, you can realize the needs of these individuals. I don’t know if there was a lightbulb that went on, but it evolved. Us being more active with the courts because of pretrial legislation really opened up people’s eyes to what needed to be done.”

Once Mono County’s pretrial program was operational, a behavioral coordinator was hired to help integrate a wide range of voluntary resources within agencies, from coordinating driver’s license appointments to drug and alcohol treatment referrals. 

“People were interested in virtual counseling, and I wasn’t too big on that; I’m more of an in-person person,” said Dylan Whitmore, deputy probation officer responsible for overseeing Mono County’s pretrial program. “Now, however, in witnessing it, people are taking to virtual counseling. I didn’t think it was going to work, but it has. We have to be progressive in our thinking.”

Funding from the legislation also allowed coordinators to set up weekly (or more frequent) multidisciplinary meetings between pretrial services, social services, behavioral health, jail staff, adult education, and community service agencies.

Mono County is one of the least populous counties in the state. To better serve its small population following the new legislation, the probation department began focusing on the lived experience of their clients; listening to their challenges and needs. This change produced an increase in client traffic.

“I see more people coming into the office when they don’t even have an appointment with the behavioral coordinator,” said Whitmore. “It’s more like a community service for them. For example, if the calendar we provided to them gets wet, they’ll return and ask for another.” 

Contra Costa County: Breaking Barriers

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Contra Costa County’s Pretrial Services Unit experienced significant challenges with clients reporting to the court and pretrial services program. The legislation allowed the agency to bring an idea to fruition, but the impact of the pandemic nearly halted their efforts.

“Our in-person reporting mechanism almost ceased to exist. We were trying to explore ideas in terms of how we could innovate reporting when the idea of mobile-service vans came into play,” said Yuri Secoquian, probation director, Specialty Field Services, Contra Costa County.

….

The vans park in front of the courthouse, giving people an opportunity to check in before or after a court hearing and access resources like free “sustainability bags”–backpacks with essentials like t-shirts, underwear, and deodorant.

The vans also allow staff to travel throughout the county to locations further away from the court, making it more convenient for people to ask questions and for staff to assess needs and make referrals.

“The feedback I’ve been getting from staff is that once people know that that service is there, they appreciate the fact they can come right out of court and report directly to pretrial, get instructions, and learn about their attorney,” said Bart B. Sloan, who supervises the Contra Costa County Military Veteran Pretrial Services Unit. 

The county also operates a pretrial court date reminder system, an effective approach to increasing court appearance and warrant clearance rates. According to Benedict, 46 of California’s 58 counties currently have reminder systems. The 12 jurisdictions that have not implemented court date reminder systems report that they are planning to do so. 

The Future of Funding

“It’s about thinking outside of the box,” said Mono County’s Eissinger. “Things we wouldn’t have even thought of 10 years ago in this profession are at the forefront now. Accepting those simple things, like challenges around immigration status or helping schedule DMV appointments, makes a difference. For example, our behavioral coordinator lets us know when the [citizenship] consulate will be in the area.”

Benedict said emphatically that these innovations could not have happened without state funding to pilot and expand pretrial programs in the state.  

“The funding provided for pretrial projects has been instrumental in giving courts and their pretrial service partners the ability to shore up their technical infrastructure, staffing, and support services that enable them to monitor individuals released prior to trial while preserving public safety,” she said. 

Benedict said they continue to work with the legislature because funding for all 58 counties remains the same three years later—$68.95 million. 

“The Court and their pretrial service justice partners are concerned about the stagnant level of funding, ” said Benedict. “This impacts the ability to adequately staff and plan long-term for the vital support and monitoring  services necessary for a fully functioning pretrial program.”

Read the full article here.

Article

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.

“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.”

Article

County of Santa Barbara Probation Department Launches Countywide Wellness Checks in Operation Safe at Home

From the Santa Barbara Independent.

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – December 16, 2024 – On December 12, 2024, the County of Santa Barbara Probation Department conducted countywide wellness checks of individuals supervised by the Department to ensure the safety of clients and the wellbeing of their families. 

This operation had a specific focus on households with school-aged children and to support the family units during the holiday season, Target gift cards were distributed, as well as toys generously donated by Community Solutions, Inc (CSI).  Operation Safe at Home covered the Santa Maria, Orcutt, Lompoc, Santa Barbara, and Goleta areas.

“Our priority is not only to ensure compliance with supervision terms but also to support the overall well-being of the individuals and families in our community,” said Chief Probation Officer Holly Benton. “This operation reflects our commitment to creating safer environments for our clients, particularly those with children, by connecting them to needed resources,” she said.

Article

Award Honors Legacy of San Benito County Probation Chief Frontella

From the SanBenito.com.

SAN BENITO COUNTY, Calif. – December 13, 2024 –  The Chief Probation Officers of California recently introduced the Joseph Frontella Award for Distinguished Service in Institutions, an honor recognizing “exceptional contributions to juvenile institutions across the state,” says a press release from the Chief Probation Officers of California. 

The award celebrates the legacy of former San Benito County Probation Chief Joseph “Joe” Frontella, whose lifelong commitment to the service of others profoundly impacted the local community and the probation profession throughout California, says the press release.

The inaugural Joseph Frontella Award will be presented to Kilee Willson, Juvenile Hall Division Director for Sonoma County Probation, at this year’s awards ceremony.

Frontella, who retired in 2023 after 28 years of dedicated service to the field of probation, passed away on Feb 29, 2024, following a bicycle accident, says the press release. Known for his unwavering compassion and dedication to youth and community, Frontella’s loss was deeply felt by all who knew him.

“The Joseph Frontella Award is a tribute to an extraordinary leader whose values continue to inspire California’s probation professionals,” said Chief Kelly Vernon, President of CPOC and Tulare County Chief Probation Officer. “Chief Frontella exemplified compassion, mentorship and innovative leadership. Through this award, we honor his memory and ensure his contributions are never forgotten.”

Frontella’s career was defined by his quiet strength, resilience and an unrelenting drive to create opportunities for justice-involved youth, says the press release. As Chief Probation Officer, he worked to guide young people toward positive pathways while mentoring colleagues and fostering a culture of integrity and fairness. His deep commitment to justice, community  and collaboration left an enduring mark on the probation field.

“Chief Frontella’s impact on San Benito County and our probation department cannot be overstated,” said Chief Ashlyn Canez, Chief Probation Officer of San Benito County. “His visionary leadership set the foundation for countless transformative programs that continue to serve our youth and families today. 

“Chief Frontella believed in the power of compassion and collaboration, and his legacy lives on in the hearts of those he mentored and the lives he helped change. The Joseph Frontella Award is a fitting tribute to his extraordinary contributions and a reminder of the standards he set for all of us in this field.” 

The new annual award is bestowed upon a probation department staff member working in a juvenile institution who embodies Frontella’s qualities, according to the press release, including leadership; compassion and empathy; dedication to justice; innovation and mentorship.  

The award presentation to Willson will take place during the annual ceremony hosted by CPOC, where probation professionals gather to celebrate the achievements of their peers and honor the memory of a man whose life exemplified service, justice and hope, says the press release.

….

Read the full article here.

Article

Congratulations to California Probation’s Employee of the Year

From the County News Center.

SAN DIEGO COUNTY, Calif. – December 13, 2024 –  A San Diego County Probation Youth Development and Community Support Services special projects supervisor has received the California Probation Employee of the Year.

Yvonne Salgado first received the Southern Region Employee of the Year award along with four other Region Employees of the Year. Then she was selected among the five region award recipients.

“A true leader, Yvonne encourages excellence from her staff, fosters a culture of learning, and is dedicated to advancing the core values of our Probation Department,” said Chief Probation Officer for San Diego County Tamika Nelson. “Her positivity, genuine enjoyment of her work, and willingness to support her colleagues make her a beacon of inspiration in the field of probation work and enhance the health and safety for everyone in our community.”

Nelson said Salgado’s exceptional leadership, dedication and innovative approach to community collaboration and youth development has had a transformative impact on County Probation and the broader California Probation profession. She had made significant contributions on numerous critical projects and initiatives.

Recognizing a need to note in the Probation case management system if the child was affected by the Child Welfare Act (ICWA), she led an effort to develop a ICWA Node in the Probation system. She did this by implementing ICWA policy and procedures in collaboration with Tribal Star for planning and working with County staff to assist with the technological set up.

She worked with community partners to create the Community Resource Directory, a comprehensive system facilitating referrals to community programs. Then, Salgado spearheaded a virtual resource fair where community partners showcased their unique programs and answered participant questions. Now, she has expanded the directory to include ICWA partners.

“Officer Salgado exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated and forward-thinking leader,” said Tulare County Probation Chief Kelly Vernon, president of the CPOC. “Her tireless efforts and collaborative approach continue to uplift not only San Diego County but also serve as a model for probation across California.”

….

Read the full article here.

Article

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.

Article

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.

Quarterly Newsletter

The Connector Newsletter – December 23, 2024
California Probation Creating Safer Communities Through Accountability & Opportunity

In this issue of The Connector, read stories of hope and inspiration of how California Probation is helping create safer communities by focusing on holding justice-involved individuals accountable while helping them transition out of the system permanently through transformative and evidence-based rehabilitation. Probation Departments are a connector in the justice system, interlacing and maximizing the resources available within our systems and communities to reduce recidivism by carefully balancing direct human services and research-based interventions.

Article

County Spotlight: San Joaquin County Probation Client Testimonial

County Spotlight: San Joaquin County Probation Client Testimonial

California Probation’s collaborative work in re-entry services for those involved in the justice system, not only helps those within the system turn their lives around, but also helps make our communities safer for all.

For those interested in understanding the realities of formal probation, this video from San Joaquin County Probation highlights Jason’s journey of transformation. Growing up in the foster system, Jason faced significant challenges, which ultimately led to a life of crime and incarceration.

While many may believe the role of California Probation is to catch probationers violating their terms, the truth is, they strive to guide people toward successfully completing their rehabilitation which leads to long-term safety in our communities. 

Jason emphasizes the turning point of taking accountability and the significant role his probation officer played in supporting him during his recovery journey. He credits his probation officer’s care and guidance for keeping him on track and fostering personal growth, stating that his officer provided unwavering support and helped him get access to helpful programs. 

“My Probation Officer was a staple for my recovery!”

Jason’s story highlights the value of strong supervision and self-commitment in recovery, and the transformative impact of effective probation supervision. San Joaquin County Probation, for Jason, became a cornerstone of change.

Watch Jason’s story here

 

California Probation across the state, provides a multifaceted integrated safety model that uses accountability and provides opportunity. Probation continues to successfully connect individuals to workforce development, substance use treatment, mental health services, family engagement, and educational opportunities.

 
The San Joaquin County Probation Department provides safe custodial care for juveniles and adults in ways that help uphold public safety. As a partner to and bridge between the Courts, the detention system, and the community, they provide the prevention, investigation, and supervision services needed to make the communities they serve safer and stronger. Officers and staff are committed to excellence, professionalism, and integrity. The Department’s shared values include excellence, importance of the individual, team concepts, ethical conduct, professionalism, importance of community and a safe and healthy environment. 
 
Article

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.

Article

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.”

Article

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.”

Article

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.”

Read the full article here.

Article

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.”

Article

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.”

Article

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.”