Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Training
Timeline
Generic

Melissa Salyers

Atwater,CA

Summary

With 18 years of professional experience in both juvenile and adult probation services, expertise and comprehensive training have been developed to excel in the field of juvenile or adult social services. The goal is to apply skills in case management, leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration to support individuals under supervision and promote positive, sustainable outcomes. Working alongside law enforcement, legal professionals, and mental health providers, a commitment to fostering professionalism, accountability, and empowerment is maintained. The focus is on ensuring successful rehabilitation and reintegration of clients for the benefit of the broader community.

With a solid foundation in law enforcement and community supervision, strong analytical skills, effective case management abilities, and the capacity to navigate complex legal frameworks have been established. Known for fostering collaborative team environments and consistently achieving positive outcomes, adaptability to changing requirements is a key strength. Highly dependable, energetic, and proactive, a passion for reducing recidivism and improving the lives of juveniles is evident. Additionally, expertise in managing difficult cases and making sound decisions reflects a creative and practical problem-solving approach. With excellent time management and problem-solving abilities, a proactive, goal-oriented, reliable, and adaptable approach ensures swift learning and application of new skills. A commitment is made to leveraging these qualities to drive team success and contribute to organizational growth.

Overview

18
18
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Deputy Probation Officer III

Merced County Probation
06.2010 - Current
  • High-Risk Juvenile Officer (2011 –2016)
  • Supervised high-risk juvenile offenders, including those released from the Department of Juvenile Justice and gang-involved youth
  • Ensured compliance with program phases and monitored progress through detailed reports
  • Collaborated with families, counselors, and service providers to develop and implement individualized treatment plans, facilitating rehabilitation and reducing recidivism
  • Led weekly Boys Circle Curriculum and participated in facility sweeps at Bear Creek Academy Long-Term Program (BCA LT) and Youth Treatment Program (YTP), maintaining safety and supporting at-risk youth
  • Worked with Merced County agencies on gang suppression, rehabilitation programs, and initiatives aimed at reducing juvenile crime
  • Juvenile Court Officer (2016 –2023)
  • Worked with Juvenile Supervisors and Deputy Probation Officers (DPOs) to manage caseloads, track juvenile offender progress, and ensure compliance with court-ordered treatment
  • Ensured successful rehabilitation and reintegration into the community by coordinating and monitoring court-ordered services
  • Adult Low Risk / Court Officer
  • Managed a caseload of over130 clients, overseeing timely completion of case management activities, documentation, and appearances in specialized Violation of Probation courtrooms
  • Represented the Probation Department in court hearings, presenting informed recommendations and case management updates
  • Monitored and documented offender progress through comprehensive needs assessments, case plans, and reports from certified intervention programs
  • Domestic Violence High Risk Officer (2018 –2023)
  • Supervised high-risk domestic violence offenders, ensuring compliance with Batterers Intervention Programs (BIPs) through regular check-ins, monthly assessments, and victim contact
  • Provided expert testimony and case insights in court, offering recommendations based on offender progress and ensuring adherence to court-ordered conditions
  • Post-Release Community Supervision (PRCS) Officer (2023 –2024)
  • Supervised individuals under the PRCS program, managing offenders recently released from state prison and placed on county probation under AB109, the Public Safety Realignment Act
  • Ensured compliance with parole conditions, maintained accurate documentation, and coordinated resources such as substance abuse programs, mental health services, and employment support for successful reintegration into the community

Deputy Probation Officer II

Merced County Probation
06.2007 - 06.2010
  • Assigned to the Juvenile Intake/Investigation Unit, responsible for managing referrals from law enforcement, courts, and families, evaluating cases, and determining appropriate interventions to address individual needs
  • Supervised youth clients enrolled in Juvenile Drug Court and Mental Health Programs, coordinating services with Behavioral Health clinicians and ensuring that progress was effectively communicated through detailed court reports
  • Supported youth engaged in Aspirant Wrap-Around services, collaborating with families, support counselors, and clinicians to prevent out-of-home placements and foster positive rehabilitation outcomes
  • Managed and processed referrals, determining eligibility for Drug Court and other juvenile programs, ensuring compliance with program criteria, and facilitating access to appropriate resources
  • Conducted thorough evaluations and provided interventions to assess client adherence to treatment plans, ensuring continuous progress and facilitating the successful rehabilitation of youth in the justice system
  • Completed detailed court reports documenting case progress, treatment compliance, and recommendations for ongoing rehabilitation, contributing to informed court decisions and the overall success of the rehabilitation process
  • Conducted thorough investigations of juvenile cases referred by law enforcement, the court system, and families, evaluating the individual needs of minors and recommending appropriate rehabilitative services
  • Worked in conjunction with Child Protective Services (CPS) and the300 W&I (Welfare & Institutions Code) Dependency Department to assess case specifics and determine the best course of action for intervention and support
  • Prepared detailed stepparent adoption reports for submission to Merced County Dependency Court, ensuring accuracy and compliance with all legal and procedural standards, as well as Prepared and completed detailed reports for underage marriage petition requests, ensuring thorough documentation and adherence to legal requirements, while ensuring compliance with applicable laws and court procedures
  • Actively contributed to the Youth Accountability Board (YAB), a diversion program for first-time youth offenders, facilitating alternative rehabilitation pathways and fostering positive behavioral changes to support long-term success
  • Completed detailed court reports, summarizing case findings, client progress, and recommendations for rehabilitation, to inform court decisions and support the best interests of the minors involved

Education

Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice (Minor in Corrections)

California State University, Stanislaus
Turlock, CA
01.2005

Associate Degree - Liberal Arts

Merced Junior College
Merced, CA
01.2002

Skills

  • Extensive experience in Juvenile and Adult Probation Services:
  • With 18 years of dedicated service in the Probation Department, a deep understanding of both juvenile and adult probation services has been developed The focus has consistently been on rehabilitation, promoting public safety, and ensuring compliance with probation terms through effective supervision, intervention strategies, and accurate documentation
  • Expertise in Case Management and Direct Client Services:
  • Proficient in comprehensive case management, including accurate assessment, evaluation, and investigation of cases involving abuse, neglect, and criminal behavior Long-term caseloads have been managed, ensuring compliance through home visits, personal contact, and collaboration with other agencies Responsibilities have included creating and modifying case plans, linking clients to community resources, and imposing sanctions or implementing corrective actions as needed
  • Collaboration with Law Enforcement and Community Resources:
  • Actively collaborated with law enforcement agencies, behavioral health professionals, and community organizations to enhance probation services This has involved coordinating with police officers, social workers, mental health providers, and educational institutions to address the complex needs of clients
  • Specialized Experience in Gang Intervention and Rehabilitative Programs:
  • Experienced in supervising gang-involved youth and adults, facilitating rehabilitative programs, and monitoring compliance with treatment plans Strategies have been developed to reduce gang involvement and recidivism by addressing underlying issues such as substance abuse, mental health challenges, and lack of community support
  • Court Representation and Professional Recommendations:
  • Regularly represented the Probation Department in court proceedings by preparing and presenting professional recommendations based on thorough case evaluations This includes advocating for appropriate services, sanctions, or modifications to probation terms to best support client rehabilitation and public safety
  • Skilled in Offender Risk Assessments and Program Facilitation:
  • Conducted risk assessments to identify the needs and risks posed by offenders, ensuring that supervision levels and intervention programs were appropriately tailored Various rehabilitation programs, including anger management, substance abuse treatment, and life skills development, have been facilitated
  • Ability to Address Abuse and Neglect Cases:
  • Conducted thorough investigations of abuse and neglect cases, ensuring the protection of vulnerable individuals Detailed court reports have been prepared, and collaboration with child welfare agencies has been ongoing, recommending services or actions to safeguard clients
  • Comprehensive Understanding of Social Work Practices:
  • Demonstrated expertise in social work principles, including client advocacy, resource coordination, and cultural competency A proven track record of effectively working with diverse populations and addressing their unique needs through tailored interventions and support services

Certification

  • POST (Peace Officer Standards and Training) Certified: Successfully completed California’s POST requirements, ensuring proficiency in law enforcement standards and best practices.
  • Advanced Probation Officer Core Course: Completed comprehensive training focused on legal procedures, offender supervision strategies, court proceedings, and community safety initiatives.
  • Defensive Tactics Certification: in defensive tactics, specializing in officer safety, arrest control techniques, situational awareness, and threat assessment during high-risk encounters.
  • 832 PC Arrest and Control – West Kern Community College (Control #6490-80100-06003),09/2006: Certified in arrest and control tactics, emphasizing lawful detention, arrest procedures, search protocols, and appropriate use of force.
  • Probation Officer Core – Fresno City College (STC #0428-001017),12/2006: Completed foundational training covering probation law, policy compliance, ethics, and evidence-based case management practices to enhance offender rehabilitation and public safety.

Training

  • Court Testimony Training: Completed formal training focused on preparing and delivering effective courtroom testimony, including report preparation, evidence presentation, and cross-examination techniques to ensure credibility and professionalism during legal proceedings.
  • Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Training: Developed advanced skills to manage individuals in crisis, including those experiencing mental health disorders or substance abuse, with a focus on de-escalating volatile situations.
  • De-escalation and Conflict Resolution Training: Gained expertise in employing verbal and non-verbal techniques to de-escalate tense situations, mitigate threats, and promote peaceful outcomes in high-stress interactions.
  • Domestic Violence Training: Trained in identifying patterns of domestic abuse, implementing safety measures for victims, and applying intervention strategies to reduce recidivism in domestic violence cases.
  • Mental Health Awareness Training: Acquired knowledge of mental health disorders and their impact on behavior, along with strategies to engage individuals in need of mental health services and reduce stigmas.
  • Gang Awareness Training: Completed multiple courses to strengthen awareness of gang culture, recruitment tactics, symbols, and intervention strategies to reduce gang-related crimes and influence.
  • Assessment and Case Planning Training: Skilled in conducting comprehensive assessments and creating individualized case plans that align with evidence-based practices to reduce recidivism and promote positive outcomes for offenders.
  • Implicit Bias Training: Focused on recognizing and addressing unconscious biases to ensure impartial decision-making, fair treatment, and equitable outcomes for individuals from diverse backgrounds.
  • Cultural Diversity Training: Developed a deeper understanding of cultural differences and their impact on communication, interactions, and case management to foster respectful and inclusive practices in the community.
  • Mobile Data Terminal (MDT) Training: Proficient in utilizing MDT systems to access real-time data, submit reports, and maintain communication with dispatch for enhanced field efficiency and safety.
  • Child and Family Team (CFT) Training: Trained in facilitating collaborative meetings with families, service providers, and community partners to develop comprehensive and personalized case plans for at-risk youth.
  • Multidisciplinary Training: Participated in cross-agency training to strengthen collaboration with law enforcement, social services, and community organizations, ensuring a holistic approach to offender rehabilitation and public safety.

Timeline

Deputy Probation Officer III

Merced County Probation
06.2010 - Current

Deputy Probation Officer II

Merced County Probation
06.2007 - 06.2010

Associate Degree - Liberal Arts

Merced Junior College
  • POST (Peace Officer Standards and Training) Certified: Successfully completed California’s POST requirements, ensuring proficiency in law enforcement standards and best practices.
  • Advanced Probation Officer Core Course: Completed comprehensive training focused on legal procedures, offender supervision strategies, court proceedings, and community safety initiatives.
  • Defensive Tactics Certification: in defensive tactics, specializing in officer safety, arrest control techniques, situational awareness, and threat assessment during high-risk encounters.
  • 832 PC Arrest and Control – West Kern Community College (Control #6490-80100-06003),09/2006: Certified in arrest and control tactics, emphasizing lawful detention, arrest procedures, search protocols, and appropriate use of force.
  • Probation Officer Core – Fresno City College (STC #0428-001017),12/2006: Completed foundational training covering probation law, policy compliance, ethics, and evidence-based case management practices to enhance offender rehabilitation and public safety.

Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice (Minor in Corrections)

California State University, Stanislaus
Melissa Salyers