Probation officers and judge recognized at annual conference

INDIANA — Chief Justice Loretta Rush presided over the annual Indiana Probation Officers educational conference this week, honoring the men and women who serve as the backbone of the state’s community supervision efforts. The ceremony highlighted twenty-eight officers for their long-term dedication, while also presenting two of the judiciary’s most prestigious individual awards for leadership and veteran advocacy. Chief Justice Loretta Rush The highlight of the event was the induction of Christine Kerl, Chief Probation Officer for Marion County, into the Order of Augustus. Christine Kerl, Chief Probation Officer for Marion County, with Chief Justice Loretta Rush. As the state’s highest honor for probation professionals, the award is granted annually to an officer nominated by their peers and community. The Probation Officers Advisory Board selected Kerl for her career-long focus on balancing offender accountability with compassion. Under her leadership in Marion County, the department has been recognized for its commitment to positive behavioral change and systemic justice reform. The Steven P. Mennemeyer Award, which recognizes individuals who have made a significant impact on veterans within the criminal justice system, was presented to Pulaski County Judge Crystal A. Kocher. Pulaski County Judge Crystal A. Kocher. Judge Kocher was lauded for her exceptional leadership in developing veteran-centered justice initiatives. These programs are designed to address the unique needs of those who have served in the military, often focusing on rehabilitation and specialized support rather than traditional incarceration. A Quarter-Century of Service Chief Justice Rush also recognized 27 probation officers who reached the 25-year service milestone in 2026. These officers were commended for their “steadfast commitment to rehabilitation and community safety.” Heath Adkins: Monroe County Lisa Brittain: Daviess County Nikki Faletic: Monroe County Brent Fultz: Morgan County The 2026 Silver Anniversary honorees include: Officer County/Court Heath Adkins Monroe County Lisa Brittain Daviess County Christopher Brophy Tippecanoe County Jesse Carlton St. Joseph County Adult Melissa Chapman Carroll County Christina Cox Cass County Adult Conzzula DeLong Anderson City Court Michelle Dresbaugh Newton County Nikki Faletic Monroe County Brent Fultz Morgan County Andria Geigle Montgomery County Elizabeth Greenwell Vanderburgh County Penny Guthrie Wayne County Kelli Heath DeKalb County Julianne Ivory St. Joseph County Adult Meredith Kraft Clarksville Town Court Courtney Kruszynski St. Joseph County Juvenile Jeremie Lovall Howard County Ember Morris Clinton County Jessica Nix Wells County Steven McKamey Howard County Troy Proffitt Miami County Brandon Ray Hamilton County James Taylor Porter County Adult Johninda Taylor Putnam County Michelle Urbanski St. Joseph County Danyel Wagner Noble County “These officers play a vital role in promoting rehabilitation and justice across our state,” Chief Justice Rush noted during the presentation. “Their dedication ensures that our communities remain safe while providing individuals with the tools they need to successfully reintegrate into society.”