Pinal County's judicial system just welcomed its new Chief Adult Probation Officer, as Presiding Judge Georgini confirmed the appointment of John Fuery, stepping into the role as of September 1, according to the County's official announcement. Starting his journey back in 2005 as a field Probation Officer, Fuery's steady climb through the ranks lands him in the top job, after notable stints as Lead Officer, Supervisor, and Division Manager.
He's replacing Saul Schoon, who served the department since 2021 and played a crucial role in navigating the department through challenging transitions; Schoon's commendation of Fuery ran deep, stating "I am confident that with John, the very best days of the department are still ahead" Schoon has agreed to continue offering support for the department until December 2, 2024, lending his depth of experience in an advisory capacity. John Fuery's track record boasts recognition as Probation Officer of the Year in 2010 and twice Supervisor of the Year in 2015 and 2021.
A key aspect of Fuery's impressive resume includes his academic pursuits, which led him to earn a Master's degree in Justice Management from the University of Nevada in 2019, a move aimed at bolstering his expertise in community corrections. In addition to management and supervision, Fuery imparts knowledge as an educator, taking on roles such as teaching at the probation academy and acting as a master trainer for Effective Practices in Correctional Settings in Arizona.
Colleagues and contemporaries alike have seen Fuery as someone who brings a potent combination of know-how and empathy to the table, with Schoon highlighting his "unique ability to connect with people, and his high level of emotional intelligence" as key traits for his placement in this new role, many in the community and the department are looking forward to the changes and growth he'll usher in, in his tenure as Chief. Fuery's approach and dedication to progressive community correction practices position him as a promising leader for the evolving landscape of Pinal County's Adult Probation system.
