Dawn Stevens named Probation & Parole Officer of the Year

Department of Correction Commissioner Claire DeMatteis recently announced DOC correctional officers and probation officers receiving annual departmental awards for providing service above and beyond the call of duty in 2020. 

"During the COVID-19 pandemic we have asked our staff to dig deeper, and they have, day in and day out," said DeMatteis. "Our officers and professional staff continue to exceed expectations to serve, protect the community and provide re-entry services to offenders."

From Sussex County, Senior Probation and Parole Officer Dawn Stevens was named 2020 Probation & Parole Officer of the Year.

Stevens demonstrated uncommon commitment, teamwork and leadership over the past year that underscores the unique role of a probation officer, including risking her life to save others, taking violent offenders off the street, volunteering her time and effort to give back and strengthen DOC's relationship with the community, creating time to train and mentor other officers, and stepping up in a leadership role.

Following are selected examples of her exceptional service over the past year. Stevens managed Sussex County operations for DOC's Operation ZiPP Up winter clothing collection drive over the past two years, coordinating with partner organizations to distribute hundreds of items to residents in need. Her careful probation supervision of a violent offender revealed continued criminal behavior, triggering prosecution and a significant sentence for new drug and weapons charges. She was awarded a commendation for valor for heroic actions after she used her training and experience to create and administer an improvised tourniquet that helped save the life of an injured motorist, even as the victim's vehicle erupted in flames just feet away. She earned a meritorious service award for overcoming COVID-19 challenges by organizing and conducting on-site training for probation officer cadets in Sussex County, continuing a role she has held for the past five years. In addition, on her own time she engaged with community resources to provide food, housing, and support to a former probationer she encountered in the community who faced homelessness and other significant needs as a result of COVID-19.

DeMatteis also nominated Stevens for the State Award for Excellence and Commitment in State Service.