With his recent graduation from the Basic Parole Agent Academy, Jonathan Wilson continues a family legacy.
His father is a retired parole agent while his brother recently promoted to parole agent III.
“This is one of the most important days of my life,” he said.
Stan Wilson, his father, attended the graduation.
“I’m immensely proud of both of them. It’s a dream come true for my family and to see my sons accomplish the things they have,” he said.
Watch the video (story continues below):
His brother Jeremy said this is something the two have wanted since they were younger.
“This is a full circle moment I think for all of us. For my brother and I making the decision to try to become parole agents years ago and for it for finally happen for both of us. I’m extremely proud of him,” Jeremy said.
For Jonathan, his graduation has meant a lot of hard work and dedication to reaching this moment.
“It is a legacy,” he explained. “The Wilson name is something we take a lot of pride in. I’ve always been taught I’m representing my family in everything I do.”
He said being a parole agent was always the goal.
“I knew if I just stayed the course, my time would come. I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity,” Jonathan said. “I felt like I was put on this earth to help people and provide support (which) also ties into me wanting to be a parole agent.”
The retired parole agent patriarch of the family said the job is about encouraging people to make positive choices.
“It’s an opportunity to give people a second chance at life,” he explained. “(Agents) help them with their transition from custody into the community. And, at the same time, while protecting the community when necessary.”
>> Learn more about becoming a parole agent.
Read more about the May 1 graduation for Basic Parole Agent Academy Class 1-25A.
Learn more about CDCR’s parole agents.
Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.
Related content
Watch: Parole Agent II Carla Fish shapes next generation
For three decades, Carla Fish has helped protect Californians, first as a firefighter, then a police officer and finally a…
Watch: Agent Byrd memorialized at training center, CMF
Two CDCR memorial ceremonies honored fallen Parole Agent Joshua Byrd, marking one year since his passing. At California Medical Facility…
CDCR parole agents target crime, maintain public safety
So far this year, CDCR parole agents have led or taken part in multiple coordinated efforts targeting crime, gangs and…
CDCR recognizes Pretrial, Probation and Parole Supervision Week 2026
(Editor’s note: This week, CDCR recognizes the hard work and dedication of staff during Pretrial, Probation and Parole Supervision Week,…
Agent Byrd remembered by Los Angeles Sheriff’s Academy
Cadets from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) Academy honored the memory of fallen Parole Agent Joshua Byrd. The…
From Cadet to Parole Agent: Meet Deshawn Snell
Deshawn Snell joined 39 others June 26 as they graduated from the Basic Parole Agent Academy class 2-26P. “I know…