Santa Cruz County Probation Chief: Sandra Mendez

Sandra Mendez is the Chief Probation Officer for the Santa Cruz County Probation Department. She oversees Pretrial Services, Adult Services, Juvenile Services and the Juvenile Institution.

Chief Mendez has been committed throughout her career to evidence-based practices, rehabilitation and community-focused justice. Leveraging her experience with budget planning, the grant application process and oversight of contract services, she has led development and implementation of multi-million-dollar programs, overseen capital-related projects and facility operations and managed large multidisciplinary teams. She also brings extensive knowledge of state and federal regulations and compliance requirements, according to the release.

Chief Mendez’s career began as a correctional officer, then continued as a parole agent before she ascended to deputy probation officer and other supervisory and executive-level positions. She holds a degree in criminology from California State University Fresno and was recognized for her collaborative leadership style, bilingual capacity and ability to lead complex initiatives across justice, health and community-based partnerships, according to the release.

She has also received professional commendations and peer recognition for her work in program innovation, staff mentorship and collaboration.