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.
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
- 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
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