WASHINGTON D.C.- In a powerful demonstration of honor, unity, and remembrance, six members of the Orange County Probation Department’s (OC Probation) Honor Guard traveled to Washington D.C. to participate in National Police Week. Having joined thousands of law enforcement officers from across the country, OC Probation commemorated those officers whose lives were cut short in the line of duty.

Honor Guard members Andres Mancilla, Mike Mullins, Frank Frias, Christopher Fox, Christina Armenta, and Kaylah Vu took part in a series of solemn and symbolic events throughout the week. Their journey to Washington, D.C. reflected the collective spirit of law enforcement professionals across the globe.

OC Probation’s Honor Guard participated in a ceremonial march to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. As rain began to pour, the OC Probation Honor Guard took part in a wreath-laying ceremony, a poignant tribute to the sacrifices of military service members who never returned home. Despite the weather, the OC Probation Honor Guard remained undeterred. Later that same day, they stood in formation to provide a cordon for the families of the 324 officers who died in the line of duty over the past year, offering a visible gesture of support as the families arrived for the National Police Week Candlelight Vigil. The names of the fallen were read aloud during the moving ceremony, illuminating the somber reality behind the badges.

The culminating event was the National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service, held on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol building. Thousands of officers and dignitaries gathered to pay their respects, including elected officials and senior members of the current, presidential administration. Vice President J.D. Vance served as the keynote speaker, offering remarks that emphasized the courage and selflessness of America’s law enforcement community.

As the week closed, OC Probation honored its fallen with solemn tributes and renewed purpose. Their legacy lives on in every badge, every oath, and every act of service: “Never Forgotten and Always Honored”.

ORANGE, CA- In a visit that emphasized the immense legislative interest in juvenile justice, California State Senator Laura Richardson (D-35), who represents many areas of Los Angeles (Carson, Compton, and many more in the general region), spent a day engaging with youth, staff, and community partners at the Orange County Probation Department (OC Probation). The visit highlighted the department’s innovative approach to juvenile justice and provided a platform for voices often unheard in public policy conversations.

The day began with a presentation by the Juvenile Hall Youth Council, a select group of youth representatives from each unit in Juvenile Hall. These youth, selected based on behavioral progress, act as liaisons between their peers and facility staff. They shared how they have advocated for facility improvements, including organizing events such as game nights and a car show. Their testimony revealed the deeper impacts of participation on the Youth Council. One youth council member described how the group successfully petitioned to change the uniform color in the girls’ unit from yellow to purple, a shift she said carried emotional weight. “When we look our best, we feel our best, which in turn means we behave our best,” she explained. “Being part of the Youth Council has changed how I see myself. It’s helped me build confidence and believe that I can be more than my past.”

Later in the day, the Senator joined a presentation from Project Kinship, a CBO that partners with OC Probation to support youth at every stage of system involvement. Through a powerful short film and discussion, the group emphasized themes of redemption and second chances, core values in their mission to dismantle cycles of incarceration through mentorship, education, and mental health services. Senator Richardson also toured the Multipurpose Rehabilitation Center (MRC), where she visited vocational programs including a fully outfitted auto shop and a College Occupational Program classroom. These facilities are designed to equip youth with real-world skills and pathways to self-sufficiency, beyond the youth’s time at Juvenile Hall. In a lighter, unscripted moment that reinforced the day’s message of connection and trust, Senator Richardson challenged Chief Hernandez to a game of basketball. The moment, though informal, symbolized the spirit of collaboration that OC Probation seeks to foster across all levels of engagement, including state leadership.

OC Probation continues its dedication to public safety as its common denominator. Humane treatment and innovative programs remain a priority for the Department. As the State of California considers new legislation, the work happening inside facilities like Juvenile Hall may prove central to shaping the future of youth justice in California.

SANTA ANA, CA- (April 29th, 2025)- The Orange County Probation Department (OC Probation) is pleased to announce the significant decline of re-conviction rates of Day Reporting Center (DRCs) program participants.

In 2012, OC Probation opened a DRC in the city of Santa Ana. After a few successful years, a second DRC opened in Westminster in 2017 to serve a larger population in the county. Both DRCs are operated by The GEO Group, Inc. (GEO), who is committed to providing leading, evidence-based rehabilitation programs to individuals while in-custody and post-release into the community.

In data provided by GEO, OC Probation found a positive trend in reduced re-conviction rates between 2014 and 2021 for the individuals who completed the program. Essentially, individuals who successfully completed the DRC programs had a marked decline in their chances of reoffending. This stands as a true testament to OC Probation’s focus on rehabilitation guided by EBP. Additionally, data revealed indicators that OC Probation’s DRCs work. Participants who completed the DRC program had a re-conviction rate of 13%, which dropped to just 3% by 2021. In contrast, those who started the program, but didn’t finish had a re-conviction rate of 42% in 2014, which decreased to 13% in 2021. Finally, participants with a neutral discharge in 2014 had a 32% re-conviction rate, but this dropped to 6% by 2021.

The significant decrease in re-conviction rates for offenders at the DRCs demonstrates the
effectiveness of EBP in supporting offenders to turn their lives around.

SANTA ANA, CA- (April 18th, 2025)- OC Probation celebrates the successful graduation of three remarkable dogs—Sandy, Noodle, and Chewie/Oliver —who have been under the training of youth at OC Probation’s Juvenile Hall. For the past 15 years, Cell Dogs, Inc. (Cell Dogs), has worked in partnership with the OC Probation to make a positive impact in the lives of youth at OC Probation’s Juvenile Hall.

The partnership gives system-impacted youth the opportunity to train a dog in obedience and discipline over a period of 12 weeks. In the first four weeks, the youth learn how to train the dogs, and for the next eight weeks, they put their knowledge into practice, working closely with the animals on a variety of commands and tricks. Many of these dogs have come from backgrounds of abuse or neglect. Some dogs have demonstrated exceptional growth in their skills and training and could even be selected for service dog training to continue their journey of helping others.

Deputy Probation Correctional Officer (DPCO) Kari Willardson, who works directly in unit with the youth and the dogs, remarked, “our youth assume full responsibility for the care and well-being of these dogs and in doing so they have grown in their confidence, their ability to work together. Most importantly, I believe, is the youth’s growth in becoming more compassionate and patient individuals”.

Youth end the graduation with the "leash exchange," a symbolic and deeply emotional moment where the youth pass the leash to the new adoptive families. It is a poignant moment of self-reflection, as youth come to understand one of the key lessons of life: the importance of letting go. Although it may be the end of training cycle, it signifies a new beginning in the life of both the youth and dog alike.

SANTA ANA, CA- (March 27th, 2025)- The Orange County Probation Department (OC Probation) was awarded a grant by the Board of State and Community Corrections (BSCC) funded through the Proposition 47 Grant Program, focused on supporting mental health treatment, substance abuse treatment, and diversion programs for those in the criminal justice system.

OC Probation is utilizing this opportunity to fund community-based organizations (CBOs) and other supportive services to be available to local law enforcement agencies within the county to address youth delinquency behaviors without the need of Probation intervention.

Chief Deputy Probation Officer Jessica Johnson stated, “What a great opportunity to support diversion services throughout Orange County. It will be beneficial to both local law enforcement agencies as well as the youth and families within those communities, by expanding diversion options and providing essential supports and resources more quickly”.

OC Probation will coordinate contracts with CBOs throughout the county, concentrating on building up diversion services in areas where the highest number of referrals are received that could potentially be diverted. These providers will be required to provide trauma-informed, gender-responsive, culturally competent and other supportive services to assist in building strong peer and familial relationships. The target population would be youth under the age of 18 residing in a city not served by existing programs and arrested for an offense that would fall under the jurisdiction of the juvenile court.

Through such efforts, we can create meaningful, long-term impacts in the lives of at-risk youth and within the communities they reside.

The Orange County Probation Department is proud to announce that Deputy Probation Officer Ronald De La Riva has been nominated for a prestigious award by the Southern California office of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). This esteemed recognition underscores Officer De La Riva's exceptional commitment to public safety and his unwavering dedication to reducing
drunk driving incidents in our community. 

DUI offenses not only lead to tragic and preventable accidents but also place a substantial strain on our emergency services, healthcare systems, and legal institutions. Law enforcement officers, emergency medical personnel, and legal professionals are consistently called upon to address the aftermath of these incidents.

To celebrate this honor, a special MADD presentation was held for Officer De La Riva on August 27, 2024, at the Harbor Justice Center. This event followed a graduation ceremony for nine DUI Court participants. The combination of these events underscores the critical work of probation officers in supporting both recovery and enforcement efforts.

Assistant Division Director of Adult Court Services Michael Casteel expressed, “Ron has been an exemplary officer and the nomination received from M.A.D.D. underscores his dedication to both his caseload and the people of Orange County. I am proud of Ron’s work and am grateful that he continues to share his passion for probation and to improving the lives of those he works with.”

Moreover, the long-term effects of drunk driving extend beyond immediate accidents. Survivors often face ongoing physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Communities affected by these incidents grapple with the loss of life and the disruption caused to their neighborhoods and families.

The Southern California office of MADD recognizes law enforcement officials who demonstrate exceptional commitment to combating drunk driving. Officer De La Riva’s nomination reflects his exemplary service and the positive influence he has made in our community. 

The Orange County Probation Department (OC Probation) celebrated the 25th annual Pretrial,
Probation, and Parole Supervision (PPPS) Week during July 21-July 27, 2024. This weeklong
event, recognized nationally, celebrates the dedication and critical contributions of over 90,000
community corrections professionals across the United States. This year’s theme: Wellness
Unveiled: Navigating the Journey underscores the importance of employee wellness in view of
the demands of the vital work performed by community corrections staff daily.

The Orange County Probation Department’s 1000-member workforce serves the community
daily by ensuring that those who come under their care and supervision receive the services and
resources necessary to effect positive changes in their lives. Probation spans public safety and
social services, rehabilitating supervised individuals and preparing them for successful reentry
using individualized, evidence-based strategies that changes behaviors and lives.

Chief Daniel Hernandez stated, “It is humbling to see the outcomes of the work of our dedicated
staff. Each member of the department supports our mission to inspire and support change in
those we supervise. Through the efforts of our staff, combined with the work of our community
partners, we see our clients change their lives and accomplish their goals.”

Recognition events were held throughout the week acknowledging the expertise, compassion and
commitment each staff member exercises in their work. Additionally, the Probation
Department’s Peer Support program, facilitated by employees who receive specific training to
assist peers during difficult times, hosted several wellness fairs to encourage health and wellness
amongst the employees.

Deputy Probation Officer Gelene Gutierrez, a peer support team member, noted “Peer Support is important as we work in an environment that is high intensity. We need to have support within our department with our peers as they are the unique group of people who truly understand and empathize with what we go through on an everyday basis. Peer Support aids those who need it without any judgement”.

Chief Hernandez added, “I’m very excited to celebrate the great work of all of our employees. This year’s theme of “Wellness Unveiled” highlights the need for staff who work in such demanding and sometimes stressful environments to take care of themselves, each other and ultimately, when we do, we can provide the best services possible to our clients.”

Orange, Calif. (June 20, 2024) – The Orange County Probation Department (OC Probation) welcomed a delegation from the National Association of Counties (NACo) for the Corrections System of Care Tour. As a member of the Orange County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (OCCJCC), OC Probation showcased its dedication to youth rehabilitation through informative presentations and a tour of the Multipurpose Rehabilitation Center (MRC)
The delegation was comprised of professionals from Cache, Boone, Salt Lake, Douglas, Durham, Dane, McLean counties, and the City of Issaquah, along with representatives from the Pew Charitable Trusts and the Heartland Regional Alcohol and Drug Assessment Center.
The tour highlighted three key facilities at the MRC: the gym, the auto body repair shop, and the college classroom. The gym has hosted numerous pro-social events such as the Juvenile Hall Career Fair and Otto Fischer High School Graduation for system impacted youth. The auto body repair shop provides vocational training for those interested in pursuing a career in automotive repair after their release. Lastly, the NACo award-winning College Occupation Program (COP) demonstrated its fully equipped learning environment where youth can pursue college degrees while in custody.
Several community partners, including Project Kinship, participated in the event. Steven Kim, Executive Director of Project Kinship, emphasized the significance of partnerships with agencies in positively impacting the lives of Orange County youth. A representative from Project Kinship then guided the delegation through a meditative breathing exercise, demonstrating the emotional regulation skills imparted to their youth.
Furthermore, the delegation had the opportunity to hear directly from the Youth Council, which consists of juveniles currently residing at Juvenile Hall. Council members shared their experiences of how being part of the Council has been a transformative opportunity and the positive impact it has had on their lives.
Lastly, Open Gate International emphasized the significance of culinary skills in the developmental journey of youth from adolescence to adulthood. Three young individuals showcased their acquired practical life skills by preparing over five types of cookies for the NACo delegation, highlighting the curriculum offered by Open Gate International.
As OC Probation continues to provide resources and infrastructure for the rehabilitation of system impacted youth, they express their renewed commitment to addressing the needs of our youth in the justice system. Witnessing firsthand the challenges and opportunities within juvenile facilities, they underscored the importance of collaborative efforts to support rehabilitation and positive outcomes for our youngest populations.
OC Probation was honored to share its programs with the NACo delegation as part of its continued dedication to advocating for policies and resources that promote fairness, accountability, and effective interventions in juvenile justice across our nation.

Orange, Calif. (June 2, 2024) – The 2nd annual Juvenile Hall Car Show was organized to provide a positive and pro-social experience for system-impacted youth.
Held at Orange County Probation Department’s Juvenile Hall, the event was made possible through the collaborative efforts of 16 local car clubs, county employees, and individual community members. All were united in their commitment in offering the youth a glimpse into the world of automotive craftsmanship and dedication.
By introducing youth to a variety of automotive related hobbies, the event aimed to inspire self-reflection on the power of applying oneself towards a positive activity, such as car maintenance and design.
Chief Probation Officer Daniel Hernandez and Chief Deputy Probation Officer Jessica Johnson, alongside several members of the Juvenile Justice Commission, representatives from the Board of Supervisors offices, and Presiding Judge of Juvenile Court Craig Arthur, were present at the event. Numerous facility staff also coordinated logistics and ensured a fun-filled, safe time at the event. Their support underscored the significance of such initiatives in fostering positive aspirations among the youth.
Throughout the morning, 148 youth from Juvenile Hall, Youth Leadership Academy (YLA), and Youth Guidance Center (YGC) had the opportunity to engage the owners of 87 vehicles, nine motorcycles and four lowrider bicycles on display.
"The Juvenile Hall Car Show was more than just a display of vehicles; it was a testament to the power of community support and mentorship," remarked Chief Hernandez. "It is through such initiatives that we instill hope, inspire dreams, and nurture aspirations for a better future."
Juvenile Hall’s Youth Council, comprised of seven youth housed at Juvenile Hall, made invaluable contributions in organizing the event. From creating posters to presenting awards to winning vehicles, their exemplary leadership and enthusiasm were commendable.
The Juvenile Hall Car Show stands as a testament to the transformative power of collective efforts by the community and serves as an inspiration for the youth as they drive towards a brighter horizon.

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