Transforming Probation Officer Leadership: Chief Daniel Hernandez’s Vision

Justice Speaks Podcast #79

This episode of Justice Speaks continues the series of interviews with individuals who impact the justice system by supervising individuals under community supervision in the form of probation or parole. This episode is sponsored by Reconnect.

In this episode, we interview Chief Daniel Hernandez, Chief Probation Officer of the Orange County Probation Department in California.

About Chief Daniel Hernandez

The conversation begins with Chief Hernandez sharing an account of his professional journey, beginning at age 23 when he started working in juvenile hall. With a background in psychology and an initial desire to become a therapist, he tells us how he found his calling in helping youth involved in the justice system. Encouraged by his father to take on challenging work that builds character, Hernandez embraced the opportunity and soon discovered the transformative power of relationship-based intervention and evidence-based practices. Over the years, he advanced through the ranks, eventually becoming Chief Deputy and now Chief Probation Officer.

Probation Officer Leadership

Chief Hernandez discusses the immense responsibilities of probation officer leadership, the weight of legacy, and the personal cost of caring deeply about the work. He talks about the limited time he had to acclimate to executive responsibilities and how he relies on a network of peer chiefs for support. The intensity of the role, he says, is matched only by the importance of the work.

A number of innovations allowed the department to evolve and do a better job of supervision Chief Hernandez details several of the initiatives including one innovation known as the Mobile Resource Vehicle Program. It involves state-of-the-art vehicles equipped to function as mobile probation offices and pop-up courtrooms. They bring services directly to underserved and remote communities, helping reduce barriers to compliance and expanding access to legal and social services. The vehicles are designed not only to support probation clients but also to engage individuals who are not yet justice involved, offering early intervention and diversion services that can help prevent later contact with the criminal justice system.

Orange County Probation Leading the Way

The discussion turns to adult early intervention programing and how Orange County is also the first department in California exploring adult this important topic. Chief Hernandez tells us the idea is to create a structured model for identifying and assisting first-time adult offenders before they are formally placed on probation. By collaborating with local universities and justice partners, the department is building criteria and interventions that aim to mitigate future criminal behavior at the earliest possible stage.

Chief Hernandez then discusses what he looks for in today’s probation officers. He emphasizes empathy, professionalism, and a human-centered approach. Officers must treat every client as a person of value and understand the complex personal histories that shape behavior. He recalls a formative lesson from a mentor who reminded him that “everyone out here is important,” a philosophy he now instills in new recruits. The department seeks individuals who not only ensure public safety but also support client transformation and growth.

He says he is inspired by the most recent generation of staff, who are purpose-driven and eager to make a difference. Many seek to contribute beyond traditional duties, volunteering to lead group interventions, community outreach, and mentoring activities. Chief Hernandez highlights a growing culture within the department in which officers play dual roles—as protectors and as supporters of rehabilitation.

Conclusion 

Finally, Chief Hernandez express his thoughts about probation officer leadership roles in the broader landscape of criminal justice reform. While acknowledging that parts of the system must evolve, he defends the value of probation when it is done well, embracing community partnerships, accountability, and individualized support.

We wish to thank Chief Hernandez for sharing his insights and experiences on Justice Speaks. We also wish to thank Reconnect for sponsoring this podcast episode.