Alameda County’s Progressive Approach to Juvenile Rehabilitation at Camp Sweeney: True Transformative Impact

SESSION INFO

Monday, January 27, 2025
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Session Type: Workshop

This presentation highlights Alameda County’s forward-thinking approach to juvenile rehabilitation at Camp Sweeney, focusing on its transformative behavior management system, cognitive behavioral interventions (CBIs), and community reintegration efforts. Attendees will gain insight into how the camp’s structured behavior management system fosters accountability and positive change, supporting youth development. The session will explore the integration of evidence-based CBIs into daily activities and individualized rehabilitation plans, addressing the underlying thought patterns driving delinquent behavior. Additionally, the presentation will showcase the impact of a robust incentive program and strong community partnerships in promoting long-term success and seamless reintegration into society. Through this session, participants will see the importance of a supportive, structured environment and strategic planning to achieve behavioral and program goals, offering valuable takeaways for professionals in community corrections.

SESSION PRESENTERS

Esmeraldo Antonio Jr.
Unit Supervisor, Alameda County Probation


Esmeraldo F. Antonio Jr. began his career with the Alameda County Probation Department as a Deputy Probation Officer I in 2008. He has experience in both Adult Investigation and Community Probation within the Juvenile Division. After a brief layoff in 2009 due to budget cuts, he returned as a Juvenile Institutional Officer for two years before resuming his role as a Probation Officer. Most of his career has been spent at Camp Sweeney, where he created the Success Plan, home pass release forms, and contributed to the implementation of programs, a rewards points system, and sanctions. He also facilitated journaling sessions and led weekly Success Meetings, where youth are supported in addressing concerns, reviewing behaviors, and receiving guidance to help them succeed in the program.


Jose Arroyo
Juvenile Institutional Officer, Alameda County Probation


Jose Arroyo, dedicated professional with Alameda County Probation since 2012, currently serving as a Deputy Probation Officer I following a recent promotion. The majority of his experience has been at Camp Wilmont Sweeney, where he have facilitated numerous programs that positively impacted the lives of young adults. Additionally, he has acted as a supervisor and is a trained facilitator in Juvenile CORE and NRCT.


Kenneth Bailey
Institutional Supervisor II, Alameda County Probation


Kenneth Bailey has been with Alameda County Probation for a decade, beginning in the maximum-security unit before transitioning to the electronic monitoring division. For the past six years, he has served at Camp Sweeney, where he was instrumental in developing the facility's points system. Bailey also led key initiatives to enhance safety and security, including establishing an emergency response plan, developing community youth transportation protocols, and implementing court transport procedures.


Albert Banuelos
Superintendent, Alameda County Probation


Albert Bañuelos is the superintendent over Camp Sweeney and the Secure Youth Track Facility (SB 823) for Alameda County Probation. Previously, he served as a Probation Director with Los Angeles County, where he held various roles, including Group Supervisor Nights, Detention Services Officer, Deputy Probation Officer, and Special Assistant. He was the Director of Campus Kilpatrick and also served as Superintendent of Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall. With experience in both juvenile and adult populations, Albert has led efforts to implement Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) models and facilitated staff development training in Los Angeles and Alameda Counties.