Yolo County board recognizes Rochelle Gayton as new chief probation officer

The Yolo County Board of Supervisors on Feb. 25 introduced Rochelle Gayton as the county’s new chief probation officer, describing the appointment as an internal promotion following an interim period.

The board’s chair, Mary Vixie Sandy, said the county considered whether to conduct a nationwide search or appoint an interim leader and concluded Gayton’s record made an immediate appointment appropriate. Laura Liddicott, the county’s chief budget official, said the board heard only positive feedback when the name was circulated.

Gayton, who told the board she has worked in the county for nearly 20 years, said she was “very excited to be here” and credited the department’s staff. “This isn’t just about me; this is about the amazing people that make up our department,” she said.

Supervisors praised Gayton’s public-safety experience and her work leading probation operations. Supervisor Frerichs said probation “has now risen to the level that it deserves” and that Gayton was the “perfect person to sort of lead it to the next level.” Several supervisors noted the juvenile hall and probation officers were present in the chamber during the introduction.

The board presented a small recognition to Gayton, and members posed for a group photograph. No formal vote was recorded in the public transcript for the introduction; the item was an introduction and welcome rather than an action requiring board approval.

Gayton succeeds an interim leader who covered the role while the board considered permanent staffing.

Gayton and the supervisors emphasized continuity in department operations and plans for future initiatives in probation services.

Gayton concluded by thanking the board for the appointment and for the county’s support of the department’s staff.

Looking ahead, Gayton said the department has “a lot of big plans for the future” and that staff will continue focusing on juvenile programs and community safety.