Chief Kirk Haynes, Chief Probation Officer for the Fresno County Probation Department, has been named the 2025 Chief Probation Officer of the Year by the Chief Probation Officers of California (CPOC) during their statewide awards ceremony.
This distinction is reserved only for extraordinary leadership and is given only when California’s Chiefs collectively agree that a peer has made exceptional and transformative contributions to the profession. The last award was given nearly 10 years ago in 2016.
Unlike other recognitions that are presented annually, the Chief of the Year award is issued only on rare occasions. This makes this year’s selection of Chief Haynes a meaningful honor and among the highest acknowledgments available within the probation field in California, according to a release.
“Chief Haynes represents the very best of our profession. He is a leader who inspires trust, elevates people, and strengthens systems wherever he serves,” said CPOC President Chief Steve Jackson. “His integrity, humility, and steady voice have shaped Fresno County’s success and helped guide statewide efforts through some of the most difficult policy landscapes we have seen. There is truly no other Chief whom CPOC calls upon more to represent probation.”
“I am deeply honored by this recognition from my peers,” said Chief Kirk Haynes. “This award reflects the collective effort of an incredible team in Fresno County and the broader probation family across California. Every day, we have the privilege and responsibility to change lives, promote accountability, and make our communities safer. I’m proud to be part of a profession that leads with both heart and purpose.”
Chief Haynes assumed leadership of the Fresno County Probation Department in 2018 at a time marked by operational strain, low morale, and a need for renewed vision. Under his guidance, the department rebuilt its organizational foundation, strengthened its culture, and restored trust. His work has centered on professionalism, integrity, service, and accountability across every level of the department, a release stated.
Chief Haynes also represents California probation before the Board of State and Community Corrections, where he has helped guide major system reforms, including Title 15 regulatory revisions. These efforts shape standards, operations, and oversight for county facilities. Haynes is known across the state for his fairness, thoughtful approach, and ability to unify stakeholders while achieving meaningful outcomes, according to colleagues.
“Chief Haynes is a leader people listen to, not because he demands it, but because he earns it,” Jackson added. “He exemplifies servant leadership and stands as the kind of Chief every department hopes to have. He is a man of faith, principled, trusted, and deeply committed to people and community.”