As the nation observes Pretrial, Probation, and Parole Supervision (PPPS) Week the third week of July, the Judicial Branch of Arizona in Maricopa County proudly recognizes the dedicated professionals whose work is transforming lives, strengthening accountability, and helping build safer communities.  

This year’s theme, “Building Connections,” shortened from the national American Probation and Parole Association theme, reflects the vital role probation professionals play every day by building meaningful connections that inspire growth, encourage positive behavior change, and support long-term success. From pretrial supervision, probation, detention, and surveillance officers to screeners, presentence specialists, detention program and facility staff, support staff, analysts, communications system operators, and victims’ rights coordinators, these professionals work together to enhance public safety. Their commitment and expertise are essential to the success of both the Juvenile and Adult Probation Departments and the communities they serve.  

“We are proud to celebrate the professionals at APD and JPD across the Judicial Branch who serve our community as well as the juveniles in our detention center. At APD, the work is very complex and equally challenging,” said Michael Cimino, Chief, Adult Probation Department. “Our staff interacts with individuals at many major events throughout the life of a criminal case in our Court from the initial appearance to pretrial supervision, to the sentencing phase, and supervision following placement on probation. In addition to resourcing the Court to have the information needed for decision making, the staff works hard every day to bring accountability to those under supervision while providing tools and pathways for lasting change, both of which are essential to public safety. We are grateful to see that important work celebrated across the country this week. 

The Adult Probation department supervises over 54,000 individuals on probation and more than 2,200 individuals in pretrial services. Through a balanced approach of accountability, victim services, and individualized support, probation professionals help people address challenges, access resources, and make positive life changes. By applying evidence-based practices and proven risk-reduction strategies, the department met its goal in fiscal year 2025, with more than 75% of individuals successfully completing their probation terms.  

“My probation officer helped me get through the hardest time in my life and never stopped encouraging me to grow and change for the better,” said an individual previously on probation. “Being able to trust her with everything while she always held me accountable was huge. Being able to get as far as I have with her in my corner has really changed my life.” 

Success stories like these are also common within the Juvenile Probation Department, where a team of more than 500 dedicated employees work together to inspire positive changes in the lives of young people. From helping juveniles earn their GED’s to providing opportunities to obtain college credits, the department equips young people with the resources and support they need to continue their education while in detention. By encouraging academic achievement and long-term planning, Juvenile Probation empowers youth to pursue their goals and reach their full potential.  

"This year's theme, “Building Connections,” reflects the heart of what our juvenile probation professionals do every day," said Eric Meaux, Chief, Juvenile Probation. "Meaningful connections are the foundation of effective public safety. Whether working with youth in detention, supervising and supporting families in the community, or collaborating with partners in education, behavioral health, child welfare, law enforcement, and community organizations, our success depends on building trust, strengthening relationships, and working together toward positive change. Lasting outcomes are achieved when dedicated professionals unite around a common purpose. During PPPS Week, we proudly recognize the extraordinary commitment, compassion, and professionalism of our employees, whose work helps young people build brighter futures while making our communities safer." 

Each year, the Juvenile Probation Department serves more than 10,000 youth through a continuum of evidence-based services designed to promote accountability, reduce recidivism, and create opportunities for lasting success. More than half of these youth are referred to diversion programs rather than formal court proceedings, allowing appropriate interventions to occur earlier and outside the traditional court process. Those efforts continue to produce meaningful results—94% of youth who successfully completed diversion were not arrested for a felony within one year, and 84% had no subsequent arrest of any kind. By connecting youth and families to the right services at the right time, probation professionals help keep young people on a positive path while strengthening public safety and reducing deeper involvement in the justice system. 

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