Week in Review: November 7, 2025

November 7, 2025

In this November 7 Week in Review, we spotlight Chief Ombudsman Eric Joe, DAPO’s firearms sweep in Gardena, and CHCF’s first staff promotional ceremony.

Staff Spotlight

Chief Ombudsman Eric Joe: Finding fair play on and off the field

Chief Ombudsman Eric Jones refereeing a football game

When the whistle blows and the lights come on Friday night, Chief Ombudsman Eric Joe steps onto the field not as a spectator but as an official, ensuring the game is played with fairness and integrity. For him, high school football officiating is more than a pastime. It is a way to stay active, give back, and live the same values that guide his work at CDCR.

We sat down with Eric to hear how his journey moving from coach to officiating shaped his philosophy on fairness, consistency and leadership

Eric’s journey into officiating began after more than a decade of coaching. “I had a colleague who worked in the Pac 10/12 and later in the NFL who pulled me in. He convinced me that I was on the wrong side of the game, so I jumped ship and began to officiate.”

That decision launched a second career filled with competition, camaraderie, and countless Friday night memories. One of those memories is the annual Dairy Bowl, the showdown between Galt High and Liberty Ranch High. “It’s a battle of cross-town rivals. The game is for bragging rights. The opponents are neighbors, relatives, and friends. It represents more than a final score. It’s about local pride and connection.”

Beyond hometown pride, Eric has also officiated nine CIF State Football Championships, numerous junior college and semi-pro seasons, and had a stint with the NFL. Along the way, he’s crossed paths with future stars like Shaq Thompson, Arik Armstead, Jake Browning, Taron Johnson, Brandon Aiyuk, and Cam Skattebo. “I’m a fan of the game,” he said. “Being on the field puts me up close and personal with all the action.”

Parallels Between the Field and the Office

Eric told us officiating isn’t so different from his day job. “As an official, my job is to administer the rules of the game and ensure it’s played in a fair and safe manner. That’s consistent with my role at CDCR, where our goal is to be independent, impartial, fair, and consistent in the application of policy. In both roles, I’m an advocate for fairness.”

The lessons from the field often carry into his leadership style. “The application of policy goes beyond quoting text or referring to a rule book, “ he said. “To be effective, you need to know how to put policy into action and understand its impact locally and globally.”

When he’s not at CDCR, officiating gives Eric the chance to recharge. “It keeps me physically active and offers a change of pace through competition,” he said.

Whether enforcing rules on the gridiron or ensuring fairness in policy, Eric Joe brings the same dedication and balance to every role he plays, living the true spirit of Beyond the Badge.

Jones and another referee talking during a football game

Jones refereeing high school football game

Division of Adult Parole Operations

DAPO joins forces with GPD in firearms sweep

The Division of Adult Parole Operations’ (DAPO) Harbor District agents joined forces with the Gardena Police Department (GPD). The joint parole compliance operation disrupted criminal activity, removed firearms from the streets of Gardena, keeping the community safe.

With a shared mission of accountability and safety, Parole Agents R. Rodriguez and J. Rendon took the lead and mobilized the team before dawn. The joint team conducted a series of compliance searches. The searches resulted in the seizure of loaded firearms and the arrest of a supervised person on active parole.

Officers discovered a Kimber .45 caliber handgun fully loaded with a 10-round magazine and an additional nine live rounds concealed inside the residence. The supervised person was taken into custody for 3056 PC Parole Hold and felony firearm charges are pending review by GPD.

“This collaboration highlights the unwavering commitment of DAPO and our law enforcement partners to safeguard the public,” said District Administrator Melanie Reyes. “Every operation of this nature reinforces accountability, builds trust, and prevents potential violence before it occurs.”

The DAPO Harbor District continues to set the standard for inter-agency cooperation, ensuring parole supervision that is effective and community centered. Through intelligence-driven operations and local partnerships, DAPO remains steadfast in its mission to enhance public safety, enforce parole conditions, and rehabilitation across California.

In Our Institutions

CHCF hosts first staff Promotional Ceremony

The California Health Care Facility (CHCF) hosted its first Promotional Ceremony honoring 16 dedicated staff members for their accomplishments and commitment to service. Those recognized were two non-custody support staff, six medical and mental health professionals, and eight custody staff members.

Hosted by Community Resources Manager Jasmin Gin and Public Information Officer Michelle Orozco, the ceremony featured speeches from Warden (A) Dao Vang, Chief Deputy Warden (A) Michael Brown, and Chief Executive Officer Anu Banerjee, highlighting the importance of leadership and upward mobility.

Each honoree received a certificate of achievement and recognition on behalf of CHCF, acknowledging their hard work and dedication. The highlight of the event was the traditional pinning ceremony, where family and friends in attendance proudly pinned their loved ones with their new rank insignias and symbolizing their promotions. Following the ceremony, staff and their families gathered for fellowship, photos, and a celebratory lunch.

CHCF looks forward to hosting many more promotional ceremonies in the future, celebrating the dedication and excellence of the institution’s staff.

Correctional sergeant being pinned by coworker, also a correctional sergeant

Actors’ Gang makes impact at ASP

The Actors’ Gang Prison Project returned to Avenal State Prison (ASP), providing participants a chance to learn empathy, self-expression, and teamwork.

Each actor stepped into their roles, reliving their pasts and facing their regrets through performance. The Actors’ Gang Prison Project provides a space for participants to express their feelings and heal trauma by providing social-emotional tools that can be used in daily life. The project has shown to have a beneficial effect on participants’ self-worth and interpersonal relationships.

The ongoing success of the project at ASP continues to highlight the impact of the arts in rehabilitation and personal growth.

CMF hosts first Breast Cancer Awareness Walk

The California Medical Facility (CMF) proudly hosted its first Breast Cancer Awareness Walk. A fundraiser for Susan G. Komen was also held, raising a total of $3000 between staff and the incarcerated population. The event brought together staff and the incarcerated population in a shared effort to promote health, unity, and awareness.

Prior to the walk, the NorCal Emergency Responders Organization arrived with a pink fire truck, “Christine.” Volunteers provided mementos for staff and gathered for a group photo. Staff then headed to the main yard where Warden (A) Sircoya Williams commenced the walk with a welcome and thank you to all participants. Staff and the incarcerated population walked side by side, wearing pink ribbons to symbolize solidarity.

The success of the walk has inspired plans to make the Breast Cancer Awareness Walk an annual event at CMF, with hopes of continuing to strengthen awareness and promote wellness in the institution.

CMC observes Domestic Violence Awareness Month

The California Men’s Colony (CMC) hosted an event in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The gathering was held inside the chapel and brought together staff, the incarcerated population, and guest speakers to promote education, healing, and awareness.

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Monique Salas from Kern Valley State Prison (KVSP) presented “The Five Truths” to attendees. The presentation focused on self-worth, accountability, and personal growth. “I have met people who have done monstrous things, but I have never met a monster,” said Salas. She emphasized that every person has value and the capacity of change.

The event highlighted the connection between childhood trauma and the cycle of abuse, encouraging participants to recognize and break patterns of violence. Informational materials were distributed at the event, providing resources, hotline information, and strategies for supporting survivors.

The CMC Mental Health Department, Division of Rehabilitative Programs (DRP), Offender Mentor Certification Program (OMCP), and Amity partnered to organize the presentation. The event inspired empathy, accountability, and hope, reminding attendees they can change.

Clinical Counselor Salas giving a presentation

Office of Victim and Survivor Rights and Services

OVSRS visits Placer County DA

OVSRS and victim advocates at the DAs office

Mariam El-Menshawi, Chief of the Office of Victim and Survivor Rights and Services (OVSRS), along with two managers from the unit, delivered an informative presentation to the Placer County District Attorney’s Office. The session focused on victims’ rights, post-conviction processes, and the comprehensive services and restitution programs offered by OVSRS.

This engagement provided a valuable opportunity for Placer County advocates to ask direct questions and gain deeper understanding of the support systems available to victims and the restitution process as well. The dialogue was highly engaging and fostered a collaborative atmosphere, laying the groundwork for future partnerships with DA offices across all counties.

In the Community

CTC participates in Trunk or Treat at the Dairy Bowl

The Richard A. McGee Correctional Training Center (CTC) staff and cadets of Class 8-25A partnered with the Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO) and participated in Galt’s Trunk or Treat event held at the highly anticipated Dairy Bowl. The Dairy Bowl is a football game between Galt’s only two high schools, Liberty Ranch High School and Galt High School.

Cadets passing out candy at trunk or treat

“This is a great experience for our cadets to demonstrate leadership while representing not just the academy, but CDCR as a whole,” said Academy Administrator Breann Cantu. “The academy experience extends beyond the classroom, it’s about helping cadets build confidence, professionalism, and character.”

In addition to passing out candy at the Trunk or Treat, the CTC Honor Guard presented the colors prior to the start of the rivalry varsity football game, adding a moment of honor and tradition to the evening’s festivities.

“Normally, our job is behind the walls, but it was nice to be out in the community doing something positive,” said Cadet Kaur. “Seeing the kids, having fun, and interacting with the public – it reminded us that we are part of something bigger.”

This event highlights the CTC’s ongoing commitment to community engagement, leadership development, and fostering positive connections between law enforcement professionals and the citizens they serve.

Recruitment

Recruitment events are happening near you!

Nov. 7 – Valley Oak Middle School Career Day, Valley Oak Middle School*
Nov. 8 – San Jose State Football Game, 1257 S. 10th St., San Jose*
Nov. 10 – CSUS Pathway to Success: Career Fair, CSU Sacramento*
Nov. 11 – Veteran’s Day Celebration, 1315 10th St., Sacramento*
Nov. 17 – Criminal Justice Tabling, CSU Sacramento*
Nov. 17 – EDD Mini Job Fair, 2901 50th St., Sacramento*
Nov. 19 – Virtual Career Fair

*Registration for these recruitment events is not required.

Observances

Veterans Day – Nov. 11

correctional captain wearing us veterans patch — *Captain Robert Viera, Folsom State Prison, USMC Corporal*

In recognition of Veterans Day, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) authorizes CDCR staff who have served in the U.S. Military to wear the U.S. Veterans patch. This patch will be worn throughout November, serving as a visible symbol of dedication and service.

Additionally, we invite all military veterans to wear their earned medals throughout the month. Non-uniformed staff are welcome to display their medals on their work attire. This initiative is a meaningful way to celebrate and honor the contributions of our veteran employees within the CDCR community.

Let’s show our gratitude this November by proudly wearing the patch and medals and encouraging others to do the same. Together, we honor the sacrifices made for our freedoms.

Our Promise Campaign, Nov. 1 – Nov. 30

As a State of California employee, it’s easy to make a difference. We can directly impact one of our many certified non-profit partners through the Our Promise Campaign.

CDCR and CCHCS launched the 2025 Our Promise Campaign with an event at Elk Grove Headquarters that brought staff and community partners together to celebrate the spirit of giving.

Staff filled the conference space for opportunities to connect with local nonprofits, supporting causes across California. The campaign continues through December. Visit the Our Promise website to learn more.

Peer support specialist with therapy dog

In the Media

Operation Boo aims to keep trick-or-treaters safe, sex offenders home in Sacramento County

On Halloween night, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation is organizing “Operation Boo,” a safety campaign designed to ensure that sex offenders on parole remain at home while children trick-or-treat in neighborhoods.

KBAK coverage on operation boo, showing parole agents at a house

Bakersfield Police check on sex offender parolees during Operation Boo

Bakersfield Police and parole agents made sure children trick or treated safely this Halloween. They checked up on sex offender parolees across town to make sure they were complying with the law.