Santa Barbara County Probation

08/04/2026

07/27/2026

On July 15, 2026, the Santa Barbara County Probation Department held its 41st Annual Staff Recognition event. The ceremony honored Probation personnel for their accomplishments in 2025. Opening remarks were given by Chief Holly Benton and award recipients included:

Deputy Probation Officer of the Year: SPO Jose Macedo (Santa Maria), DPO Gabriel Garcia (Santa Barbara), and DPO Carmen Chavez (Lompoc)

Pretrial Staff of the Year: PSS Venessa Blundell

Juvenile Justice Center Staff of the Year: Utility Worker Monica Cowger

Support Staff of the Year: AOP Josef Holicky (North County) and CSS Eric Brown (South County)

Supervisor of the Year: Sr. AOP Monica Ruiz

Star Award: Sr. DPO Michael Risebato

Bulldog Award: Santa Barbara and Santa Maria Pretrial Assessment Unit

Motivational Interviewing Champions:
Sr. DPOs Flory Aldana, Hector Elenes, DPOs David Hernandez, Blanca Navarro, Stephanie Vazquez

The 2025 pin recipients included employees with 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 years of service. Thanks to all staff for another wonderful year!

07/24/2026

07/23/2026

We asked our staff to describe probation in one word. Their responses reflect the purpose and impact of our profession promoting accountability, supporting positive change, and strengthening our communities. During Probation and Pretrial Services Week, we celebrate the dedicated professionals whose commitment, integrity, and service make a meaningful difference every day. Thank you for all that you do.

07/22/2026

Every probation officer has a story.

To celebrate Probation and Pretrial Services Week, a few of our officers shared what inspired them to pursue a career in probation.

Their answers reflect the dedication, compassion, and commitment they bring to their work every day. Take a moment to hear their stories and join us in recognizing the professionals who support individuals, strengthen communities, and make a lasting impact.

07/21/2026

In honor of Probation and Pretrial Services Week, we asked some of our officers a question: At what age did you become an officer? Check out their answers and celebrate the dedicated professionals who make a difference every day!

07/20/2026

In recognition of Probation and Pretrial Services Week, July 19–25, 2026, the County of Santa Barbara Probation Department proudly honors its dedicated officers and professional staff who protect public safety, promote accountability, and support individuals as they transition back into our community.

This week, the Department highlights the work of its staff in strengthening public safety through individualized supervision, evidence-based practices, and strong partnerships with courts, law enforcement, behavioral health providers, schools, and community organizations across Santa Barbara County.

Probation professionals advance accountability and rehabilitation through community supervision, pretrial monitoring, and evidence-based interventions. They assess individual needs, develop case plans, and connect people to treatment and supportive services, including substance use treatment, mental health care, education, employment, housing, and cognitive-behavioral programming.

“Probation improves public safety by holding individuals accountable while supporting meaningful change,” said Chief Probation Officer Holly Benton. “Our staff work alongside community partners to reduce recidivism, support victims, strengthen families, and connect people to the services they need to succeed. Their work makes a difference across Santa Barbara County.”

Pretrial services staff support individuals in safely remaining in the community while their cases move through the court process. Through risk-informed monitoring, court reminders, and service connections, they reduce unnecessary detention while supporting court appearances and public safety.

The Department also collaborates with justice system partners, supports victim restitution processes, and uses data-driven approaches to prioritize individuals who pose the greatest risk while supporting rehabilitation for those ready to change.

Probation and Pretrial Services Week recognizes the work of probation professionals whose efforts impact thousands of individuals, victims, and families each year—helping make Santa Barbara County safer and stronger.