The Santa Barbara County Probation Department will mark Pretrial, Probation and Parole Supervision Week, July 20-26, honoring the dedication of probation professionals who work every day to make local communities safer and stronger.

During the week, the Probation Department will highlight the work of local officers and staff who help reduce crime and recidivism by providing justice-involved individuals with court-ordered accountability, supervision, and access to services that support long-term rehabilitation.

These trained professionals serve on the front lines of California’s justice system, promoting public safety through a unique model that blends enforcement with evidence-based rehabilitation.

“Probation officers play a vital role in keeping our communities safe by reducing recidivism through individualized supervision, accountability, and connection to services,” said Chief Probation Officer Holly Benton.

“Decades of research show that this balanced, evidence-based approach improves outcomes for individuals and strengthens our communities,” she said. “I’m proud of the dedication our staff bring to this work every day, helping people make meaningful change while ensuring our communities remain safe and supported.”

Probation professionals serve as key connectors within the justice system and local communities, bridging courts, schools, behavioral health providers, law enforcement, and service agencies to ensure individuals have the supervision and tools they need to succeed.

In addition, the department connects people to services such as substance use treatment, workforce development, housing support, and mental health care.

The work includes pretrial monitoring, which allows individuals to remain safely in the community while their cases proceed through court, reducing unnecessary detention while maintaining public safety, the department said.

“For those who are sentenced, probation supervision offers a cost-effective, community-based alternative to incarceration that holds individuals accountable while providing opportunities for change,” the Probation Department said. “By addressing the root causes of criminal behavior and supporting successful transitions out of the justice system, probation plays a critical role in building safer, healthier communities for all.”

For more about the County of Santa Barbara Probation Department, visit www.sbprobation.org.