San Rafael, CA – Chief Marlon Washington and his staff at the Marin County Probation Department are well aware of the nationwide social awakening that has raised awareness of inequities in society. Year after year, Marin is among the most racially disparaged counties in California – proof that there is much work to do.
As an agency that focuses on public safety, Probation personnel are working hard to build community all across Marin, every single day. The team is focused on ensuring accountability while helping justice-involved individuals transition out of the court system permanently through transformative and evidence-based rehabilitation. Those transitions benefit everyone.
“I am so proud of the diverse work that the staff in my department does,” Washington said. “Probation is an opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life, and I invite you to honor and applaud our staff who seize that opportunity.”
Washington’s tribute was timely because the annual nationwide Pretrial, Probation and Parole Week is July 17-23. It was acknowledged by the Marin County Board of Supervisors with a resolution during its July 19 meeting.
Probation, an alternative to incarceration, connects services and offenders’ needs to enhance public safety for everyone. The goal is the restoration of justice-involved individuals and connecting them to resources available within the court system, local government, law enforcement, social services, schools, nonprofits, and law-abiding residents who can provide mentorship. Through research-based deterrents and interventions, such an effort is proven to reduce recidivism in jails, restore personal accountability, and build a foundation of security.
“The theme of restoring trust and creating hope is a fitting focus as we celebrate our employees this week,” Washington said. “Probation officers are educated and highly trained professionals prepared to manage the multifaceted needs of justice-involved individuals. They are entrusted with the supervision and care of probationers that leads to their long-term success. It’s not an easy task, but it’s so worth it.”
One of the greatest successes of the past year was Probation’s collaboration with three other County of Marin departments – the Public Defender’s Office, District Attorney’s Office, and the Department of Health and Human Services – to launch Clean Slate, a program to assist system-involved individuals to have their criminal records expunged to reduce the barriers in reintegrating into society. Two successful Clean Slate events were held earlier this year, one in Marin City and one in San Rafael.
Marin County Probation is an active participant in other innovative initiatives including the nationally recognized Wall of Change program that recognizes former offenders who have navigated through t criminal justice system and made significant changes in their lives. Its School Works Program provides early intervention and support to middle school youth, and the Career Explorer Summer Program and year-round Youth Working for Change Program prepare young people to join the workforce and build skills. is a proud partner in the Marin 9to25 Collective Impact movement which incorporates youth voices in the development and implementation of a vision for youth wellness in Marin.
“It is important to recognize probation officers and staff for their dedication to the people they work with and to our community, not just during Probation Service Week but all year long,” Washington said.
Learn more about Probation’s programs and staff as they are highlighted on the department’s Facebook page.