Probation Today Fall/Winter 2023

Today Today

SPENCER CROSS APPOINTED

DEPUTY CHIEF PROBATION OFFICER

Spencer Cross was appointed as Deputy Chief Probation Officer (DCPO) of the Adult Division on August 25, 2023. Spencer earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of California Santa Barbara and has completed various leadership programs. He has over 24 years of experience in a variety of roles within the Facilities, Juvenile, and Adult divisions, he has received recognition for his leadership and outstanding work on Departmentwide projects. As Acting Deputy Chief of the Adult Division, he led new projects and collaborated with justice system partners and County stakeholders

CHIEF PROBATION OFFICER HOLLY BENTON

Congratulations to Spencer on his well-deserved promotion!

ROUNDTABLE MOVES STAFF IDEAS TO IMPACTFUL SOLUTIONS

Established in January of 2022, the Roundtable provides a forum for conversation where ideas are discussed and solutions proposed. This aligns with Chief Benton’s philosophy of empowering staff at all levels to engage in conversation and decision-making to implement change Departmentwide. Currently, the Routable consist of 12 staff who participate in the meetings and represent the various interests of staff within all divisions and positions of the Department. One idea recently brought to the Roundtable by Pretrial Service Specialist (PTSS) Richard Parr, was a suggested schedule change for Pretrial Services staff Richard presented various shift configurations, discussed them with the Roundt re effectively use the PTSS’ time and equitably

distribute coverage Upon implementation, reports are now completed earlier in the day, cases remain with one officer, and permitting PTSS to end their day in alignment with law enforcement and court personnel’s availability.

JUVENILE INSTITUTION OFFICER CORE GRADUATIONS

On August 11th, JIO Judith Barraza, Carlos Guerrero, and Diego Pacheco, successfully graduated from Juvenile Correctional Officer Core; a five-week course held at the State Center Regional Training Facility in Fresno, designed to provide a foundation for institutional staff including hands on defensive tactic training and agility testing. The 22 participants who graduated this year represented various California counties The graduation ceremony took place at Fresno City College and was attended by Department representatives, friends, and family of the graduates. Captain Stacie Sellai, Kings County Probation Manager, delivered a keynote speech congratulating the class and offering words of encouragement.

TALENT FLOURISHES WITHIN THE JJC

A youth artist expresses himself through completing artwork, offering a glimpse into his creative brilliance

This youth artist's mural is a stunning representation of the beauty and diversity of nature. The juxtaposition of the cherry blossom and palm tree, along with the monkey and vine tree with parrots, creates a vibrant and dynamic scene that captures the imagination. The use of bright colors and intricate details brings the mural to life, making it a true work of art. Witnessing the artistic talent and creativity of young minds is truly amazing, and this mural is a testament to the power of art to transform any space into a place of beauty and inspiration.

"BACK TO SCHOOL" AND WELLNESS CHECKS COUNTYWIDE

The Santa Barbara County Probation Department is committed to community safety and takes a proactive role in promoting accountability and family wellness. On July 25th, a team of seven juvenile officers from the Santa Barbara County Probation Department performed countywide "Back to School" wellness checks for youth under community supervision to ensure they were ready for the upcoming school year. During the visits, officers checked on families and discussed plans for school attendance. They also handed out care packages filled with school suppliesincluding backpacks and water bottles, toys, blankets, books, speakers, and stuffed animals for all youth in the home. The department visited a total of 38 homes and delivered 82 care packages and backpacks to youth and their siblings.

Additionally, on August 8th, the Department conducted countywide wellness checks on clients under active probation or post-release community supervision. The operation prioritized clients with children, victims, or vulnerable adults in the home. The goal was to assess the living environment, document any needs of the client and/or family members, and provide information on community resources. The checks also ensured clients were complying with the terms and conditions of their probation, deterred future criminal activity, and reduce recidivism. Sixteen probation officers participated in this countywide operation. Backpacks filled with school supplies were handed out to each family with school-aged children, made possible through generous donations by Community Solutions Inc. (CSI), and private donors. In total, the department visited 29 locations, made 26 contacts, and no arrests were made.

Lights, Camera, Action! Lights, Camera, Action!

The Santa Barbara Probation Department partnered with a professional video production company to create recruitment and educational videos showcasing the work of Probation. On August 25th the Department completed 3-days of filming led by Joel Estrada, Marie Silva, Tiffany Phillips and Richard Parr. In total, the effort yielded over 17 hours of film, 22 interviews, and the staging of over 50 Probation and community-based organization (CBO) employees across various scenarios and settings. Next steps include trimming footage and working toward arranging clips into a logical sequence to ensure a smooth and coherent follow. The project will feature current employee sharing their experiences, authentic glimpses into the work environment, the day-to-day atmosphere and collaboration within our offices as well as opportunities for career advancement, training, mentorship and professional development. Once completed, the Department plans to showcase the videos on the Department’s website, on social media, job boards, at various career fairs as well as on internal communication platforms to maximize the reach of the videos to diverse audiences.

SANTA MARIA ELKS

SANTA MARIA ELKS OFFICER OF THE YEAR OFFICER OF THE YEAR

Deputy Probation Officer (DPO)

Miguel Ochoa was awarded the Santa Maria Elks Officer of the Year award on September 13th , for his outstanding service and dedication to his profession. Miguel has demonstrated a passion for helping others and working towards rehabilitation and successful reentry for those under his supervision. The Department extends its heartfelt congratulations to Miguel for this much-deserved recognition.

NATIONAL RECOVERY MONTH

September was National Recovery Month!

To celebrate, the Probation Department participated in Recovery Day sponsored by the Good Samaritan Shelter. The event included educational resources and activities to celebrate people on their path to recovery and remind them they are not alone

#RecoveryMonth #RecoveryIsForEveryone #RecoveryIsPossible

CALIFORNIA REVENUE OFFICERS ASSOCIATION (CROA) CONFERENCE

Financial Officer Profession (FOP) Kathi Morse joined the Santa Barbara Probation Fiscal Services team on July 25th and is assigned to the Revenue Recovery Unit. She recently attended the annual California Revenue Officers Association (CROA) conference in September, gathering great information, making valuable contacts with other California county revenue recovery units and was selected for next year ’ s CROA Board of Directors (term 10/2023 through 10/2024)

Thank you, Kathi, for representing the Santa Barbara County Probation Department!

KathiMorse

PINK PATCH

The Santa Barbara County Probation Department is proud to have participated in the Pink Patch Project, a public awareness campaign where law enforcement agencies across the nation sell and wear pink patches and other promotional items to raise funds for breast cancer research and support throughout the month of October for Breast Cancer Awareness The Pink Patched Project successfully raised $600 and all proceeds were donated to the Mission Hope Cancer Center in Santa Maria.

ABOVE AND BEYOND SPOTLIGHT

Administrative Office Professional (AOP)

Jennifer Herbaugh, observed an unsettling sight on her drive into work on October 5th . She noticed a man lying on the side of the road, partially concealed by the tall grass. Initially, she drove past him, but after realizing what she had seen, she turned around to check on him. Despite Jennifer's best efforts, the man refused her assistance and showed signs of intentional self-harm. She quickly called 911 and positioned her car

with hazards on to block half of the road, ensuring that no car would hit him while help was on the way As the man attempted to position himself in oncoming traffic, Jennifer kept a safe distance while directing traffic away from him. Within minutes, the California Highway Patrol and emergency services arrived and convinced the man to seek medical attention. Thanks to Jennifer's quick thinking, the man received the help he needed.

On October 24th DCPO Melinda Barrera alongside members of our local law enforcement community partnered with the California Pizza Kitchen to participate in this year ’ s Tip-A-Cop. Tip-A-Cop brings communities together, allowing individuals to tip officers who serve as guest servers. The proceeds raised from the event support the athletes of Special Olympics Southern California Thank you to all who stepped out from behind the badge to serve and connect with the community and to all those that contributed to this important cause!

LOMPOC ELKS LOMPOC ELKS

OFFICER OF THE YEAR OFFICER OF THE YEAR

On October 28th , Deputy Probation Officer (DPO) Mari Perez received the Lompoc Elks Outstanding Performance Award. Her unwavering dedication and hard work have made her an integral member of the Lompoc Adult Unit, and her contributions to the department have been significant. Congratulations to Mari on this welldeserved recognition!

VETERANS S EVE

On October 28th , Sr. DPO Stephanie Haro and Adult Probation Manager Emir Saafir participated in the 11th annual Veteran's Stand Down at the Santa Maria Fairpark. Over 70 organizations and agencies participated in providing supplies, resources, and services to veterans and their families including medical care, haircuts, food, and veterinary care. Than you to all who participated in honoring those who served and standing together as a community!

The Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department hosted the third annual Battle of the Badges on November 4th , at the Hagerman Sports Complex. The event brought

together seven teams representing various local agencies from across the county to a friendly game of softball. Proceeds from the tournament went toward funding People

for Leisure and Youth, Inc., an organization that supports recreational and leisure programs throughout the community.

FESTIVITIES

The Santa Maria Probation Office recently held a spooky doll decorating contest for Halloween, and the winners were decided by employee votes. Sr. DPO Stephanie Haro secured first place, followed by DPO Blanca Lopez in second place Congratulations to all participants, and a big thank you to the sponsors for making the event possible!

This year ' s Trunk or Treat was a success! Special thanks to all the participants who brought their creativity, enthusiasm, and generosity to make the event a joyous occasion. It was heartwarming to see families and friends come together in the spirit of Halloween, dressed up in imaginative costumes and exchanging treats with one another. We look forward to next year ' s Trunk or Treat and hope to see even more families and friends join us for another memorable celebration!

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY HEROES YOUR COUNTY, YOUR HEROES

LEADERSHIP GRADUATION

On November 28th , Accountant Emily LaChaine graduated from the Organizational and Talent Development Division’s “Supervisor Bootcamp” program as part of her Leadership Development Series.

The four-week program was designed for newly promoted supervisors and those seeking to enhance their supervisory skills and develop new leadership abilities. The program focused on several key objectives, including supervising a multi-generational workforce, guiding others through change, and implementing servant leadership principles.

Congratulations Emily on your achievement!

On November 28th , DPOs Monica Hernandez and Nelson Maldonado and were highlighted as “Santa Barbara County Heroes” at the Board of Supervisors meeting. The video is produced by the County’s Public Information Team to highlight extraordinary individuals and celebrate the unsung heroes among us who embody the spirit of selflessness and dedication The full video can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/mvvIcQKCc6o? feature=shared

DIAL 2-1-1

Santa Barbara County's 2-1-1 connects Probation clients re-entering the community from incarceration with immediate and long-term services and support! Services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and in 150 languages. Clients can dial 2-1-1 or text BACKHOME to 898-211 for resource information on Basic Needs, Employment, Transportation, Substance Abuse and much more!

Services are also available by dialing:

800-400-1572

TTY: 805-919-1148

OPEN RECRUITMENTS!

We are always looking for great additions to our team! Interested and qualified candidates are encouraged to apply. Specific information regarding any of our openings are located at the following website link:

https://ca-santabarbaracounty.civicplus.pro/1636/Employment-Opportunities

Design Editor: Betty Olea