Probation Services Department Receives Clifford Skeen Innovation Award

November 3, 2026

Montgomery County Common Pleas Court, General Division’s Probation Services department recently received the Clifford Skeen Innovation Award, recognizing its commitment to innovative approaches in community corrections. The Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction presents the annual Clifford Skeen Awards to residential and non-residential programs demonstrating excellence in community corrections.

The award recognizes programs that advance community-based alternatives to incarceration while strengthening supervision and supporting rehabilitation. The Clifford Skeen Awards were established in 1993 in honor of an Ohio legislator who sponsored the state’s Community Correction Act.

Montgomery County Probation Services earned this distinction through its commitment to developing and implementing evidence-based interventions, building partnerships with community agencies to provide targeted services, and achieving measurable results in reducing recidivism and expanding access to treatment.

Following the announcement, the Ohio Community Corrections Association and the Ohio Justice Alliance for Community Corrections also recognized the department’s achievement. Additionally, Governor Mike DeWine and Lieutenant Governor Jim Tressel issued a proclamation from the State of Ohio recognizing the department.

Carlos Walker, Director of Probation Services, credited the recognition to the collective efforts of the entire Adult Probation Services team, highlighting its dedication to the individuals it serves and to community safety. “Together, we continue to demonstrate that accountability, rehabilitation, collaboration, and innovation can make a lasting difference in people’s lives,” Walker said.