During National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, coinciding with the 130th anniversary of Parole, Inside CDCR caught up with Parole Agent Mitchell Tarrar.
Tarrar has been with the department for nine years, starting at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center. He then promoted to parole in Oakland. While there, he worked a variety of parole caseloads, including sex offenders and gang overflow. Two years ago, he transferred closer to home to work Court Compliance in the Delta District.
Conversation with a parole agent
Why did you choose to become a parole agent?
In my career, I have experienced a wide variety of positions in parole. I have learned a lot in the short amount of time that I have been here and feel the sky is the limit. I really enjoy Parole because there is so much to do and learn with all the different positions. Parole is a very important part of CDCR because we are the only ones who closely monitor parolees and ensure the public is safe. Protecting the community is my main goal and I go home at the end of the day feeling accomplished.
How has the Division of Adult Parole Operations changed since you joined?
Like with any department, change is always occurring and Parole is no different. Through my time being here in Parole, I have seen many changes within the Division. Some of these changes include the way we supervise Parolees and the new models we follow, the creation of the Special Enforcement Branch, and allowing for more potential promotional opportunities.
What do you do outside of being a parole agent?
It’s always great to keep your work life and personal life separate and have a means of blowing off stress. For me, I love being with my family and watching my newborn daughter learn new things. But when I really need that alone time, I love to ride anything with two wheels. I am passionate about riding dirt bikes and Harleys as well as working on them.
What outlet does biking provide you outside of work?
I use riding as an escape from stressors and to clear my mind. There’s nothing like going up to the forest to ride dirt bikes. You get the smell of the fresh air and redwoods all around, the traction of the tires on the dirt, just everything about it makes you stress free and level-headed. When I don’t have time to head to the forest, my Harley is the key for mental fortitude.
I love taking a nice cruise to the local lake or meetup with some friends for a bite to eat. Riding my Harley makes me feel free and clears my head if I’ve had a rough day at work. One of the greatest things about bikes is also the people you meet along the way. All the trips and rides I have ever gone on, I am always making new friends and connections. Like the department, you find individuals who have the same hobbies and interests as you which create very valuable friendships.
Story by Quinn Sheppard, Associate Governmental Program Analyst
Office of Public and Employee Communications
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