Week in Review: November 21, 2025

November 21, 2025

In this November 21 Week in Review, we spotlight Capt. Greg Crowe, mass casualty trainings across the state, and CDCR recruitment efforts.

Staff Spotlight

Catching up with Captain Greg Crowe

When Greg Crowe got out of the US Marine Corps, he went to work as a manager at a fast-food restaurant but wanted something more.

2016 (he's center on the left) with HDSP Honor Guard

That’s when he realized the state’s corrections department aligned with his military training. So, he applied to become a correctional officer over 20 years ago and the rest is history.

Crowe has worked at High Desert State Prison in Susanville since graduating from the academy in 2002. Now, after 23 years at the same institution, he’s looking forward to the next chapter: retirement.

Crowe promoted through the ranks during his time with CDCR. He began as an officer, then promoted to sergeant, lieutenant and is now a captain. If his name rings a bell, it’s because his byline has appeared in Inside CDCR many times. For seven years, he served as the institution’s public information officer and administrative assistant.

The biggest change he’s seen in the department is how much technology plays a role in today’s prisons.

We caught up with Crowe to talk about his long career.

What’s a typical day like in your job?

Each day is awesome, even though being the Health Care Captain is always challenging. I’m working daily with custody and non-custody staff. I’m fortunate to have had amazing staff who do the impossible every day.

How do you balance work and home life?

Couldn’t do any of it without my wife, who is my rock. She keeps everything together outside of work, so I can do what I do.

What hobby helps you achieve balance?

I enjoy camping. It’s peaceful.

What advice do you have for others thinking about joining CDCR?

There are so many paths a person can take in the department. No matter where your interests lie, you will find your niche.

Have you had any mentors? If so, how did they help your career or personal life?

I’ve had over 23 years of mentors. The current mentors and those from the past have been amazing. Current Warden Kim Thornton and Chief Deputy Warden Bobby Wheeler have been instrumental over the last number of years. Bobby was one of my first partners.

Do you have anything else to share?

I am indebted to the department for their constant support. When I turned in my application for the department, I also went back into the military as Army National Guard.

Crowe speaking to incarcerated individual and family

I went on my first deployment while my application was still being reviewed. It was unique to be calling from overseas and talking to my background investigator. Their whole team was amazing.

During my 23 years, I was also sent on two more combat deployments to Iraq. The prison and the department went way above and beyond to make sure everything was great here, so I never had to worry about it while I was there. Both times when I returned, it was like I never left. The prison made the transition back to my job very smooth both times.

My experience is topped off with knowing that all my partners are now and will always be family.

Division of Adult Parole Operations

DAPO attends SDSU Criminal Justice Career Fair

Parole Agents Diana Gonzalez, left, and Valarie Griffis of the San Diego Parole District representing DAPO and talking with students at the San Diego State University Criminal Justice Career Fair on Nov. 13, 2025. — *Parole Agents Diana Gonzalez, left, and Valarie Griffis of the San Diego Parole District.*

Parole agents recently attended and represented the Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO) at the San Diego State University (SDSU) Criminal Justice Career Fair, hosted by the School of Public Affairs.

The fair promoted full-time career opportunities to students and was a chance to get the word out about careers in law enforcement. Many students stopped by and spoke with parole agents Diana Gonzalez and Valarie Griffis, who represented DAPO with a smile and wealth of information.

“It was a great opportunity to talk with students and teach them about our jobs,” said Agent Griffis. “Many of them were not yet ready to graduate. I encouraged them to look into the student intern program we have at the San Diego District so they can see firsthand the work of a parole agent.”

Parole, law enforcement agencies lead Operation Shasta Shield

Operation Shasta Shield with a parole agent and a parole supervise person about to be transported to jail, Nov. 14, 2025.

Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO) parole agents from the Community Compliance Unit, alongside agents with the Sierra Parole district and other parole agents, collaborated with law enforcement agencies in Shasta County for a compliance and apprehension sweep dubbed Operation Shasta Shield.

RJD gives thanks to mental health staff

The Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility (RJD) leadership brought staff together for a Mental Health Appreciation Luncheon. The luncheon was sponsored by the Spielman Foundation, honoring the dedication and resilience of those who support the institution’s wellness mission every day.

The event featured a festive taco lunch and a gourmet coffee cart. They offered space for warmth and connection, allowing team members to relax, laugh, and recharge.

This event provided an opportunity for mental health staff to take a well-deserved break from their everyday duties to enjoy a meal with colleagues.

The gathering underscored RJD’s commitment to fostering the community and celebrating the vital role mental health plays in rehabilitation.

Institutions across the state host alarm-response trainings

Mass casualty training at Valley State Prison.

Valley State Prison’s (VSP) In-Service Training Department welcomed staff from institutions across the state to participate in its reality-based Alarm Response Mass Casualty Training.

More than 50 role players, 50 responders, and 30 instructors took part in the large-scale exercise.

Sgt. Bruce Davi expressed his appreciation for all those who helped with the training.

“It was great to see departmental staff from Custody, Health Care, Mental Health, correctional counselors, administrators, the firehouse, other institutions, and American Ambulance all come together to work as one,” Davi said.

Staff carry mock patients to a triage area during the mass casualty training at Ironwood State Prison.

Ironwood State Prison recently hosted a mass casualty incident training involving multiple outside agencies to enhance emergency preparedness and coordinated response capabilities.

The training included participation from Ironwood’s custody staff, management, California Health Care Services Staff (CCHCS), and Crisis Response Team, along with local and regional partners such as:

Blythe Police Department
California Highway Patrol
Riverside County Sheriff’s Department
and American Medical Response.

CHCF mass casualty training with color-coded trauma areas.

California Health Care Facility (CHCF) in Stockton held their second mass casualty incident training as well as an active-shooter drill in the Administration Building. The training was held Nov. 6.

Last year, CHCF collaborated with institution staff and the community.

incarcerated graduates posing with their degrees

Incarcerated students at the California Substance Abuse and Treatment Facility (SATF) attending the Tulare Lake Adult School celebrated their achievements with graduation ceremonies.

SATF hosted seven ceremonies, one for each facility. More than 150 students were recognized for over 175 achievements. Students completed 73 GEDs, eight high school diplomas, 69 associate degrees, two master’s degrees, 22 vocational certificates, and three certified Peer Literacy Mentorship Program certifications.

The ceremonies were attended by classroom clerks and mentors, in addition to custody, education, and executive staff. The most significant guests were the graduates’ family members and friends, joining in the celebration and providing continued support to their loved one.

Adding to the joyous occasion were band members from each facility, playing music prior to the ceremonies and during the receptions. Several incarcerated individuals let their voices shine as they opened the ceremonies with the National Anthem.

Graduate speakers shared their stories, relating to their fellow graduates and providing encouragement for students to continue to strive for their goals.

“Graduation day is always my favorite day of the year,” said Principal Mark Smith. “For some of our students, this is the first time they are wearing a cap and gown. To be able to celebrate their accomplishments with their family and peers present is truly special.”

Incarcerated graduate smiling and shaking hands

incarcerated graduate speaking at graduation ceremony

Recruitment

High school students visit the Academy

The CDCR recruitment team led Turlock High School students on a tour of the Richard A. McGee Correctional Training Center. Students learned about academy expectations, observed training areas, and engaged with staff about opportunities in both custody and non-custody roles. The tour provided valuable insight into law enforcement careers and supported CDCR’s outreach efforts by connecting with students interested in public service.

College students attend COP at SAC

FLC students and correctional officer at the front gate of CSP Sac

CDCR recruitment invited students from Folsom Lake College to attend the College Outreach Program (COP) at California State Prison, Sacramento (SAC).

During the tour, students learned about the prison’s historical significance, daily operations, rehabilitation programs, and the wide range of career opportunities available within the department. Students engaged with staff from various units and gained a clear understanding of correctional work, institutional procedures, and the department’s mission to promote public safety while supporting successful rehabilitation.

CDCR recruits military veterans and reservists

Correctional Sgt. Hector Garcia from the background investigation unit presented at the B.T. Collins Army Reserve Center in Sacramento.

Sgt. Garcia, an active member of the Navy and Air Force Reserves, connected with 150 Army reservists on a deeper level. He shared his personal experiences working for CDCR post-military. He explained the benefits veterans and reservists receive including veterans’ preference and the post 9/11 G.I. Bill.

Garcia received a lot of interest, with many members excited to begin their application process. It was a great opportunity to work alongside the Sacramento Sheriff’s Department to showcase the promotional opportunities, benefits, and duties each department has to offer.

cdcr recruitment team and military reservists smiling

In the Media

The SF Public Defender’s office announced that it will partner with Oakland-based Project Homecoming to provide an alternative to group transitional housing in The City.

SF Public Defender’s office announces new reentry program partnership

The San Francisco Public Defender’s office announced a new partnership Thursday with a reentry program that pairs those recently released from incarceration with hosts in individual homes, instead of the more common communal housing sites.