News Coverage
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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Placer County Probation’s Dean Dittman Receives CPOC Statewide Recognition with Affiliate Employee of the Year Award
From the Placer Sentinel.
December 8, 2025 – Dean Dittmann, a longtime leader within the Probation IT Managers Association (PITMA), a driving force behind the affiliate’s statewide growth, and a valued member of the Placer County Probation Department, has been honored at the statewide 2025 Annual Chief Probation Officers of California (CPOC) Awards Ceremony with the PITMA Employee of the Year Award. This award recognizes Dean’s visionary leadership, his commitment to elevating IT services for Probation Departments throughout California, and his remarkable ability to build connection and community within the probation profession.
“Dean’s leadership has helped transform how probation impacts our communities and brings people together to enhance the probation profession not just here in Placer County but throughout the entire state,” said Chief Brian Passenheim, Chief Probation Officer of Placer County. “His creativity, authenticity, and ability to foster collaboration have made a profound difference in how our teams connect and work together.”
Dean has reshaped how Probation IT Managers connect throughout the state to enhance the ways in which probation departments throughout California can manage caseloads, engage with those under supervision and deliver and connect people to rehabilitative services. His leadership within PITMA ensures that every participant feels valued, heard, and connected.
One of Dean’s signature contributions is the positive message he champions within PITMA: “I’m doing a great job.” More than a phrase, it has become a reflection point for members to recognize their efforts, celebrate progress, and support one another. This message has resonated widely, becoming part of Probation IT Managers Association’s identity and inspiring professionals statewide.
“Dean doesn’t just manage IT services for probation, he builds community,” said Chief Steve Jackson, Chief Probation Officers of California President. “His dedication to enhancing the probation profession and probation work throughout California with innovative and responsive IT services reflects exactly this award honors. His leadership sets a high standard for all of us.”
Chief Probation Officers of California proudly recognizes Dean Dittmann for his outstanding service, his forward-thinking leadership, and his lasting contributions to PITMA and the broader field of probation. His work continues to elevate probation operations and strengthen collaboration statewide.
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Read the full article here.
Butte County Judge Wins CPOC Statewide Award for Judicial Excellence
From the Action News Now.
December 8, 2025 – The Honorable Jesus Rodriguez, Assistant Presiding Judge of the Butte County Superior Court, received the Judicial Officer of the Year Award at the 2025 Annual Chief Probation Officers of California Awards Ceremony held in Redding. This recognition highlights his exceptional leadership and commitment to justice and rehabilitation.
“Judge Rodriguez exemplifies judicial excellence in every respect with fairness, empathy, professionalism, and humanity,” said Melissa Romero, Chief Probation Officer of Butte County.
Judge Rodriguez expressed his gratitude for the award, acknowledging the dedication of probation professionals. “I have tremendous respect for the dedicated professionals in probation and their unwavering commitment to accountability, rehabilitation, and public safety across our state,” said Rodriguez.
Known for his compassionate leadership, Judge Rodriguez actively engages with justice-involved youth, attending their milestones and encouraging their progress toward brighter futures. He also ensures victims’ experiences are honored, balancing empathy with fairness in his courtroom.
“Judge Jesus Rodriguez is a compassionate, principled leader whose approach to justice strengthens communities and transforms lives,” said Chief Steve Jackson, President of CPOC.
CPOC honored Judge Rodriguez for his commitment to advancing justice and community well-being in Butte County and across California.
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Read the full article here.
Orange County Probation Department’s Kim Olgren-Potter Recognized with Probation Affiliate Employee of the Year Award for Exceptional Leadership
From the Huntington Beach News.
December 8, 2025 – Kim Olgren-Potter, Business Services Deputy Director for the Orange County Probation Department and a long-serving leader within the Probation Business Managers Association (PBMA), has been honored at the statewide 2025 Annual Chief Probation Officers of California Awards Ceremony with the Affiliate Employee of the Year Award for PBMA. This award recognizes Kim’s exceptional commitment to the probation profession, her leadership in advancing fiscal and administrative excellence, and her dedication to supporting probation professionals throughout California.
“Kim’s steadfast dedication to PBMA and her willingness to continually step up for her colleagues make her incredibly deserving of this recognition,” said Daniel Hernandez, Chief Probation Officer of Orange County. “Her knowledge, mentorship, and commitment to strengthening our profession and our communities have made a profound impact on Orange County and on probation departments statewide.”
Kim is widely regarded as one of California probation’s most dedicated contributors. Throughout her years of service, she has held multiple leadership roles and currently serves as the Southern Region Chair for PBMA, in addition to her work on the Revenue Committee and the Legislative Committee. Colleagues depend on Kim as a reliable, generous source of guidance and someone who readily shares her expertise, provides thoughtful advice, and supports business and fiscal teams across the state.
Her tireless efforts help enhance probation throughout California making our communities safer and helping those in the justice system take part in transformative rehabilitation. Kim’s contributions honor probation’s history while helping shape its future, strengthening the profession through her vision, mentorship, and collaborative approach.
“Kim’s initiative, leadership, and passion have made PBMA a stronger affiliate organization,” said Chief Steve Jackson, CPOC President. “Her dedication to improving probation operations statewide reflects exactly what we celebrate with this award.”
CPOC proudly recognizes Kim Olgren-Potter for her outstanding service, exceptional leadership, and meaningful contributions to PBMA, Orange County Probation, and the broader field of community corrections.
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Read the full article here.
California Probation Chiefs Elect New President and Executive Officers for 2026
Sacramento, Calif. – December 5, 2025 – The Chief Probation Officers of California (CPOC) has selected its executive leadership team for 2026, naming Chief Esa Ehmen-Krause of Contra Costa County as President, Chief Izen Locatelli of Mendocino County as Vice President, and Chief Tamika Nelson of San Diego County as Secretary/Treasurer.
Shasta County Probation Officers Commended for Life-Saving Action in the Field
From Shasta County.
The department is proud to recognize two outstanding team members, DPOs Gabrielle Redelsperger and Kurtis Hult, for their quick thinking and heroic response during an unexpected emergency in the field.
San Diego County Probation Helps Youth Plan for Successful Reentry Into the Community
From San Diego County News Center.
SAN DIEGO, Calif., – November 24, 2025 - The Cal-AIM Justice-Involved Initiative can benefit people recently released from custody. It can reduce medical and behavioral care service gaps and emergency room visits. The initiative is in motion to launch in correctional facilities across the state.
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In October, County Probation’s youth correctional facilities became the first in the region to go live with this new system. San Diego is the third county probation department in the state to implement this system.
Probation can now bill the state to recapture some of the costs of providing treatment to youth. This new revenue will enhance treatment and therapy options for youth in custody.
“San Diego County has long been a leader in the reentry space and this milestone has truly been a department-wide achievement,” said Chief Probation Officer Tamika Nelson. “The outstanding collaboration, process improvement, and dedication across every division, along with our partners, has brought us a long way in a short time. We are working to ensure youth leaving our facilities are connected to the medical and behavioral health care and community support they need to succeed.”
County Spotlight: From Addiction to Business Owner – How Nevada County Probation Changed One Man’s Life
From Nevada County News Flash, by Laura Petersen, Nevada County public information contractor
NEVADA COUNTY, Calif. – July 24, 2025 – Keether Merry’s relationship with drugs started early in life. So did his experience with incarceration. Then he turned his life around thanks to help from Nevada County Probation.
…Merry shared how his personal experience with Nevada County Probation helped him break a downward cycle and change his life in a positive way.
“What I can say about Nevada County Probation Department is they help facilitate a safe environment for people like me to better their lives. They facilitated an environment that motivated me to become willing to change and open minded enough to take in new ideas,” he said.
Office of Traffic Safety Awards $207,000.00 Grant to the Santa Barbara County Probation Department for Intensive Supervision Program for High-Risk DUI Offenders
From the Santa Barbara Independent.
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – November 13, 2025 – Santa Barbara County Probation Department announced today that it has received a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) for an intensive probation supervision program for high-risk individuals with multiple DUI convictions. The grant program runs through September 2026.
“This grant strengthens our ability to hold high-risk DUI offenders accountable and protect our community from the dangers of impaired driving,” said Holly Benton, Chief Probation Officer for Santa Barbara County. “Through intensive supervision and targeted enforcement, we can reduce repeat offenses and enhance safety on Santa Barbara County’s roadways.”
Marin County Probation Department Leads Sex Offender Compliance Sweep to Strengthen Community Safety
From the County of Marin.
San Rafael, Calif. – August 12, 2025 – The Marin County Probation Department collaborated with the Marin County Sheriff’s Office to conduct a compliance sweep on October 30 to ensure accountability among individuals on active supervision for sex offenses.
Demolition of Old Juvenile Hall is Symbolic to Contra Costa County Administrators Seeking New Path for Juvenile Justice
From Mercury News.
There was a time when young people would land in “juvee” for crimes as minor as shoplifting, marijuana use and fights on school grounds. That approach existed even when Tamara Gusman-Taylor, director of Martinez’s Juvenile Hall, started working in juvenile justice 18 years ago.
But times have changed.
“That’s not the juvenile halls of today — it’s not what you see in the movies or on TV,” Gusman-Taylor said. “We have young people that are the most serious felony offenders that we are trying to rehabilitate.”
That’s why Esa Ehmen-Krause, who was appointed Contra Costa County’s Chief Probation Officer in 2020, finds symbolism in the planned demolition of the county’s old juvenile hall — built in the 1950s and expanded in the 1970s to house hundreds of young offenders. Tearing down the building, she said, adds momentum to larger efforts to restructure juvenile services, creating paths out of facilities that were once designed to house youth for long periods of time.
“This project is a really good visual representation to the community – to our young people – of the county’s commitment,” Ehmen-Krause said Tuesday, answering the phone during a bidders conference meeting about the upcoming demolition. “We want to make sure that we are creating opportunities for our young people that are age appropriate and really programmatically robust.”
Riverside County Probation: ‘Raising the Future’ To Brings Youth Empowerment, Workshops and Giveaways To Palm Desert
From Patch
PALM DESERT, Calif. – October 17, 2025 – A day of empowerment, education, and community connection for children and young adults is coming to the desert as the Riverside County Probation Department and local partners host “Raising the Future” on Saturday.
The free, family friendly event will go from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the University of California, Riverside – Palm Desert Campus, located at 75080 Frank Sinatra Drive.
Attendees can look forward to a full schedule of skill-building workshops, live entertainment and keynote speakers focused on inspiring youth and adults alike.
Designed to foster leadership, growth, and opportunity, Raising the Future aims to strengthen ties between county agencies and community-based organizations working to uplift local families.
“If this Raising the Future event is anything like the one held in Riverside, then Palm Desert has a jam-packed day full of empowerment, partnership, education, inspiration, and fun ahead,” said Assistant Chief Probation Officer Natalie Rivera.
“The Riverside County Probation Department is honored to participate and support this Raising the Future event, and all upcoming events we hope to see across our county.”
The event’s keynote speaker, Richard Montañez, the former PepsiCo executive whose life story inspired the film “Flamin’ Hot,” will share his journey from janitor to innovator, author, and motivational speaker.
Riverside County Supervisor V. Manuel Perez will also appear as a special guest, offering remarks on justice reform, equity, and local empowerment efforts.
“People are going to be greatly helped by this event,” Perez said. “From introducing people to resources, to networking, to meeting county leaders and hearing from guest speakers, this event offers a lot to all who come. It’s a free community event that is open to everyone and is all about providing opportunities, giving an early start and second chances, and finding inspiration as we learn from others.”
Here’s what the event will include:
- Youth & Adult Workshops on leadership, career development, and wellness
- Scholarships and giveaways, including a Playstation 5, a large television and more.
- Live music, free food, and entertainment throughout the day
- ASL and Spanish translation services
- The event will also offer access to community resources, networking opportunities, and on-site registration.
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“Raising the Future is about uplifting our entire community by coming together to inspire hope, healing, and opportunity,” said Ramon Ramos, president of The Exception. “When we invest in our youth, adults, and families, we create a stronger, healthier future for all.”
Community members are encouraged to register early by visiting this link.
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Read the full article here.
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Riverside County Probation Serving Courts – Protecting Our Community – Changing Lives. Fostering a diverse and innovative team committed to safe communities, facilitating connections and promoting resiliency. Integrity: The undivided adherence to strong ethical principles, such as honesty, fairness, humility, and personal accountability. Commitment: Absolute dedication to our mission and team, the courts, the county, and the public. Compassion: Empathy, kindness, understanding, and respect.Napa County Debuts Probation Department Mobile Services
From Napa Valley Register
Napa, Calif. – October 15, 2025 – Napa County Probation Department services are going mobile.
The county bought and outfitted a 32-foot-long van using a $483,000 state grant. The Probation Community Outreach Mobile vehicle has the technology to act as a mobile courtroom and provides meeting space for probation clients.
“Bringing the office to clients who struggle with transportation will improve the likelihood they report to probation, which is the underlying reason for the majority of warrants,” a county report said.
Lake County Resilient Re-entry Event Aimed at Overcoming Odds
CLEARLAKE, Calif., – October 14, 2025 – Despite all the curve balls life can hurl, there are people who manage to overcome substantial odds and still manage to prevail and on occasion achieve the success that only their wildest dreams could have conjured.
Yet there’s the Resilient Re-entry program started by the Lake County Probation Department which enjoyed an enthusiastic fourth year; drew a modest crowd to engage with civil and social service experts waiting at booths ready to guide them to a career path some may have deemed impossible until Friday October 10.
Lake County Probation’s 4th Annual Resilient Re-Entry Event Aimed at Overcoming Odds
From Lake County Record Bee and CPOC Communications team.
At Lake County Probation, they believe in second chances and the power of resilience while providing both supervision and services to those in their custody. This commitment was on full display at the 4th Annual Resilient Re-Entry Event, hosted in partnership with the Lake County Campus of Woodland Community College.
The event served as a reminder that re-entry is more than just a process—it’s a journey of resilience, perseverance, and longterm community support and safety. Attendees had the opportunity to hear firsthand success stories from those who have overcome challenges and worked toward a better future.
Lake County Probation Chief Probation Officer Wendy Mondfrans said,
“This year’s Resilient Reentry was a fantastic event! Throughout the day individuals inspired those in attendance with their incredible stories of resilience, transformation, and impact. The message was clear that with a desire to change, this community is ready to help people make a difference in their lives. We are thankful for the team that helped put the event together and look forward to more successful events in the future.”
California Probation Chiefs Decry Governor’s Signing of AB 1376: A Dangerous Step Backward for Public Safety
Leaders Warn New Law Threatens Community Security and Undermines Effective Probation Oversight
Sacramento, CA, October 10, 2025 – Steve Jackson, President of the Chief Probation Officers of California (CPOC) issued the following statement in response to Governor Gavin Newsom signing Assembly Bill 1376 (Bonta) into law:
“The signing of Assembly Bill 1376 into law comes at a challenging time for California’s juvenile justice system, especially as tools continue to be removed from probation while more serious caseloads are increasing—undermining the will of voters who supported stronger accountability measures.
Statement from the Chief Probation Officers of California President on LA Receivership Ruling
STATEMENT
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (October 10, 2025) – The Chief Probation Officers of California (CPOC) President Steve Jackson issued the following statement in response to the LA Receivership Ruling:
Kern County Probation Checks Lead to Arrests for Weapons, Drugs, and Illegal Chop Shops
From Sierra Sun Times
KERN COUNTY, Calif. – September 19, 2025 – Kern County Sheriff’s Office officials report that on August 27, 2025, at approximately 3:34 p.m., deputies from the Ridgecrest Substation conducted a probation search at a residence located at the 1400 block off Hwy. 14 in Inyokern, CA. The search was part of an ongoing investigation involving stolen property.
Deputies arrested Roy Stevens, 74, on a felony warrant, and Jason Hopkins on two misdemeanor warrants. A stolen vehicle and active chop shop were also found. Albert Thompson, 71, along with Stevens and Hopkins, were booked into Lerdo Jail. Thompson and Stevens face additional felony charges, including conspiracy, vehicle theft, possession of a stolen vehicle, and operating a chop shop.
