Probation Pioneers: Advancing Best Practices through Innovation and Evidence-Based Excellence

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With a strong foundation in administrative support, Jannet Bonilla has contributed to diverse departments by managing reports, updating policies, and offering recommendations to enhance service quality. In her role with Alameda County Probation’s Office of Human Resources, she gained valuable insight into the critical role of policies and ordinances in organizational effectiveness. Jannet supported the Chief of Human Resources with tasks related to workers' compensation, leave management, discipline, and investigations. Her experience in San Mateo County included committee support for the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Committee (JJDPC) and Fresh Lifelines for Youth (FLY), deepening her understanding of evidence-based practices in probation. Additionally, her work with St. Vincent De Paul’s Catherine Center restorative justice program allowed her to witness the transformative impact of rehabilitation, assisting women in recovery to rebuild their lives and reconnect with their families. Jannet earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration from California State University, East Bay and received Certification in Evidence Based Leadership from Joyfields Institute.

With over 27 years of law enforcement experience, Christy Henzi has supervised justice-involved individuals across various California counties, including San Francisco, Santa Cruz, San Mateo (State Parole), and Alameda. Her expertise spans high-risk sex offenders, parolees, probationers, and Post-Release Community Supervision clients. A skilled leader and policymaker, Christy has worked collaboratively with state and federal agencies to implement innovative programs under California’s realignment legislation. She is dedicated to staff development, instructing courses focused on evidence-based practices and officer safety. As Division Director, she oversees Alameda County’s Professional Development and Best Practices Unit and serves as the Departmental Range Master. Christy earned a Bachelor of Science in Administration of Justice from San Jose State University.

Estial began her career as the Administrator of the Court Appointed Attorneys Program before joining the Alameda County Probation Department in 2015. She has since served as a deputy in adult investigation and supervision units and was promoted in 2023 to Unit Supervisor of the Best Practices and Innovative Strategies Unit. This unit leads innovation and evidence-based excellence in community corrections. A passionate advocate for professional development, Estial is a certified instructor for several core departmental programs, including COMPAS, Women’s Risk/Needs Assessment, Motivational Interviewing, and Thinking for a Change. She is committed to applying best practices with fidelity to improve staff performance and community outcomes. Estial holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from San Francisco State University and a Master of Public Administration from California State University, East Bay. In 2021, she was accredited as a Certified Evidence-Based Practitioner by the Joyfields Institute.