To: Board of Supervisors
From: Esa Ehmen-Krause, County Probation Officer
Report Title: Pretrial Deputy Probation Officers
RECOMMENDATIONS:
ADOPT a Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26196 to add two (2) Deputy Probation Officer II (Represented) (7AVA) positions in the Probation Department.
FISCAL IMPACT:
These positions are fully funded by the Superior Court through the Senate Bill 129 Pretrial Enhancement Memorandum of Understanding and are budgeted in the Department's budget.
BACKGROUND:
Across California and the nation, pretrial release and detention primarily based on cash bail are slowly being replaced with more just alternatives. California is leading reforms in promoting safe, efficient, fair, and timely pretrial release of individuals booked into jail.
Pretrial programs enhance public safety, increase efficiency, and connect individuals with critical resources to support their livelihood.
Deputy Probation Officers (DPOs) play a pivotal role in assessing the risk posed by individuals awaiting trial and making recommendations to the Court regarding release conditions. By conducting thorough risk assessments, DPOs can help identify defendants who may pose a danger to the community if released. Alternatively, DPOs can identify low risk defendants and recommend options such as electronic monitoring, community supervision, or mental health treatment thereby reducing the jail population. This saves taxpayers dollars by avoiding unnecessary incarceration of individuals who are low risk. DPOs can provide judges with comprehensive information so informed decisions can be made. In addition, DPOs connect clients with supportive services to contribute to rehabilitation efforts and reduce the likelihood of reoffending.
Due to the significant increase in the individuals eligible for pretrial release, two additional Deputy Probation Officer II positions are needed to manage this caseload.
CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION:
If unapproved, the department w...
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