Board appoints Casey Smith as chief probation officer after competitive recruitment

The El Dorado County Board of Supervisors on May 19 voted to appoint Casey Smith as chief probation officer, making permanent the interim leader who has headed the department since last fall.

Human Resources Director Mr. Kusco summarized a vetted recruitment process: the county received 17 applications, invited the top five candidates for in-person evaluation, and used two interview panels that included senior county staff and judicial representatives. After that review the county forwarded its top two candidates to the board and recommended Casey Smith for appointment.

Casey Smith has worked in the county probation department since January 2010 and holds a master’s degree in criminal justice and corrections. Speaking to the board, Smith thanked supervisors and staff and said she would strengthen the department’s partnerships and collaboration with public-safety partners.

"All of your support and communication over the past nine months is appreciated," Smith said, adding she intends to "capitalize on collaborative efforts to keep our community safe."

The board moved and approved the appointment by recorded vote. The appointment was proposed to take effect May 30, 2026 at step two of the salary range as described in the staff report.

Why it matters: the appointment completes a competitive hiring process and signals continuity for the county’s probation leadership. The county said size, panel composition and judicial participation were intended to ensure the candidate’s readiness for the role.

The board approved the motion to appoint Casey Smith 4–0 (one supervisor absent).