Awards and Appreciation, Beyond the Badge, Division of Adult Parole Operations

Parole Agent Kristen Blehm named Peace Officer of Year

October 1, 2025

From left are DAPO Director Bryan Bishop, DAPO Deputy Director Heather Bowlds, DAPO Chief Deputy Regional Administrator Jaimee Lacey, Sierra District Parole Administrator Jadi Howard, Redding Parole Agent Kristen Blehm, Redding Assistant Unit Supervisor Justin Benson, and Redding Unit Supervisor Joseph Eldridge.

The Exchange Club of Redding celebrated the dedication and bravery of Shasta County peace officers, naming Parole Agent Kristen Blehm the 2024 Peace Officer of the Year.

Those gathered at the recent ceremony included members of local law enforcement such as Anderson Police Department, CDCR, Redding Police Department, Shasta County District Attorney’s Office, Shasta County Marshal’s Office, Shasta County Probation Department, and California Highway Patrol.

Holding the 2024 Peace Officer of the Year award is Parole Agent Kristen Blehm.

Blehm, who was born and raised in Redding, has always been committed to her community. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice with a focus on investigations. Her education laid a strong foundation for her law enforcement career.

Her professional journey began in 1999 when she joined the Redding Police Department as a police officer. Throughout her dynamic career, she has taken on various roles, including school resource officer and investigator before transitioning to the Shasta County District Attorney’s Office as an investigator.

In 2021, Blehm brought her wealth of experience to the Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO). At parole, she quickly proved herself a formidable leader. Her confidence, extensive knowledge, and practical experience have set her apart in the field.

Currently, she is assigned to the GPS-Sex Offender Management Program. This intensive supervision initiative demands meticulous attention to detail and thorough investigations of sex offender registrants. She often tackles the toughest cases within the Redding Parole Unit, showcasing her remarkable skill set.

Surpassing expectations

“Despite the challenges of high travel and a demanding caseload, Kristen consistently surpasses expectations. (She is) producing work of exceptional quality,” according to her supervisors. “Her reports have become templates for her colleagues, reflecting her thoroughness and professionalism.”

According to DAPO, she is celebrated for her dependability and organizational skills as well as her proactive approach to investigations. She has earned the deep respect of her peers, treating her team with kindness and courtesy, creating a collaborative environment that enhances their collective efforts in keeping the community safe.

Last year, Blehm explained the difference between city-based parole offices and those in smaller towns.

“Some agents in a city might be able to see 10 or more of their clients in a single day because they are all located in one city block. Here, we are traveling to neighboring counties, over mountain passes, sometimes in the snow or other adverse weather conditions,” she explained. “It’s a big difference.”

>> In March 2024, Inside CDCR highlighted Agent Blehm: Meet Redding Parole Unit Agent Kristen Blehm

>> Learn more about becoming a parole agent.

Story and photos submitted by the Division of Adult Parole Operations