Awards and Appreciation, Beyond the Badge, Jobs, Training and Facilities

ASP honors staff with 25 years of service

January 15, 2026

Avenal State Prison (ASP) recently honored 18 dedicated staff who reached the extraordinary milestone of 25-plus years of CDCR service.

These honorees represent a wide range of classifications, including correctional officers, sergeants, lieutenants, correctional counselors, captains, Plant Operations staff, and correctional case records analysts. Together, they reflect the teamwork, professionalism, and dedication required to operate a complex institution like ASP.

For more than a quarter century, these employees have shown up with integrity, resilience, and pride in public service. Whether on the front lines, in leadership roles, or behind the scenes, their efforts have helped ensure the safety, security, and daily operations at ASP.

*Jas Sanha, supervisor of building trades, reached 25 years of service with CDCR.*

ASP honors 10 staff who reached 25-year mark

Mark Cates — Correctional Officer
Sergio Fuentes — Correctional Officer
Susan Ochoa — Correctional Case Records Analyst
Edgar Araiza — Correctional Captain
Javier Campos — Correctional Officer
Jose Alvarez — Correctional Officer
Larry Brieno — Correctional Officer
Leslie Ochoa — Correctional Counselor II
Luis Aragon — Correctional Officer
Jas Sanha — Supervisor of Building Trades

Six reach 26 years

Officer Raul Gonzalez with 26 years of service.

ASP Lt. Jaime Jacquez reached 26 years of service.

Jack Perry — Correctional Sergeant
Juan Gómez — Correctional Officer
Steven Thacker — Correctional Officer
Raúl González — Correctional Officer (above left)
Jaime Jacquez — Correctional Lieutenant (center)
Vanessa Cruz — Correctional Officer (above right)

Two officers with 29 years

Gary Scribner — Correctional Officer
Reynaldo Zavala — Correctional Officer

Their impact reaches far beyond the years they have served. They are mentors, leaders, and role models. Their experience strengthens the institution, inspiring those who follow.

“ASP is proud to recognize these remarkable individuals and thank them for their unwavering commitment,” prison officials wrote. “Congratulations on 25 or more years of service and thank you for making a lasting difference.”

Submitted by Lt. Pablo Chavez

Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.

See more awards and appreciation stories.