El Dorado County staff members recognized with state awards

EL DORADO COUNTY, Calif. – El Dorado County Health & Human Services staff member Mindi Paxiao was recognized at the 2023 Annual Chief Probation Officers of California Awards Ceremony with the Tim Fitzharris Award. The award acknowledges outstanding achievements in community corrections by honoring a non-probation employee who has made a substantial and noteworthy contribution. Eligible recipients may include volunteers, Juvenile Justice Commissioners, journalists, college professors, or others who have demonstrated excellence in their work within the corrections sector.

"Mindi's experience in with probation offers a valuable perspective on the impressive journey she has undertaken in a remarkably brief timeframe," noted El Dorado County Chief Probation Officer Brian Richart. "Not only has Mindi successfully rehabilitated herself, but she has also proactively sought ways to contribute by providing essential services to individuals involved, or at risk of involvement, in the community corrections system."

Mindi Paxiao has demonstrated exceptional resilience and dedication in her journey, transitioning from being under formal supervision to becoming a valuable staff member at El Dorado County's Health & Human Services Agency, embedded within the Probation Department. Her personal transformation and commitment to community improvement highlight the effectiveness of probation and correctional practices. Mindi's advocacy and support for at-risk youth and justice-involved individuals have been instrumental in creating safer communities.

"Mindi's consistent dedication and outstanding contributions to our mission deserve recognition," commented Karen Pank, executive director of CPOC. "Her commitment has played a vital role in enhancing our efforts, leaving a lasting and positive mark on the correctional community. We value Mindi's significant impact and appreciate her ongoing commitment to our shared goals."

The Chief Probation Officers of California (CPOC) is an association of all 58 counties with a shared identity as law enforcement leaders. CPOC is committed to a research-based approach to public safety that promotes positive behavior change. Their leadership guides policy and practice in prevention, community-based corrections, secure detention for youth, and direct human services. CPOC aims to prevent crime and delinquency, reduce recidivism, restore victims, and promote healthy families and communities.

Also recognized was Nikki Moeszinger, the acting El Dorado County CFO. She was named "Probation Business Managers Association Employee of the Year.

According to the award, Nikki is a dedicated and selfless advocate for the field of probation. With a strong commitment to PBMA, she continuously serves her colleagues, offering her time, expertise, and support. Her efforts have played a crucial role in strengthening PBMA as an affiliate organization and encouraging probation colleagues across the state to participate. Nikki's supportive, tenacious, can-do attitude and grit make her an invaluable asset to the field of probation and a true advocate for its advancement.

"Today, we are honoring our officers and staff who go above and beyond, committing themselves to the safety of our communities," said Lassen County Chief Jennifer Branning, President of CPOC. "Their work and devotion to ensuring the rehabilitation and success of justice-involved individuals are among the many reasons why they are being recognized today. We are very grateful for the time and close care they give to ensuring our state's well-being and safety."

The CPOC Awards Committee evaluated submissions from probation departments throughout the state and selected awardees who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, commitment, and passion for their work. They highlight some of the best in the probation profession and system partners that push the envelope, going above and beyond to keep communities safe and help justice-involved individuals transform their lives in positive ways.