Lake County Probation Department celebrates staffing achievements and community outreach initiatives

The Lake County Probation Department is celebrating a significant staffing turnaround and a series of impactful community initiatives, as highlighted in a recent presentation to the Board of Supervisors. With a focus on public safety and rehabilitation, the department has successfully reduced its vacancy rate for deputy probation officers from a staggering 36% to near full staffing levels for the first time in years.

This year alone, the department promoted ten employees and hired seven new staff members, with plans for additional hires in the coming weeks. The introduction of a new training position, the probation program technician, aims to prepare individuals for future roles as probation officers, further bolstering the department's workforce.

In addition to staffing improvements, the department hosted its third annual Resilient Reentry event at Woodland College, attracting more attendees than ever before. The initiative aims to support individuals reintegrating into society, alongside six successful tattoo removal events that provided 191 procedures to participants.

The implementation of a child abuse prevention plan in collaboration with local agencies marks another key achievement, alongside the introduction of a mobile services unit dedicated to assisting homeless populations. This unit is part of a broader strategy to enhance outreach and support for vulnerable community members.

The department is also moving forward with the implementation of Proposition 36, which aims to provide treatment and job skills training to individuals in need. A recent survey indicated that around 300 individuals could be impacted by this initiative, prompting discussions about potential staffing needs to ensure adequate service delivery.

Looking ahead, the probation department is negotiating the acquisition of a property for a housing project aimed at supporting individuals in the community. They are also embracing technology, with plans to implement AI in report writing processes to streamline operations and improve efficiency.

As the department continues to evolve, it remains committed to enhancing victim services and ensuring the well-being of both staff and the community they serve. A stakeholder meeting is scheduled for February 19th to discuss ongoing collaborations with Child Welfare Services, inviting community input on improving services for children and families in Lake County.