On Thursday, September 5, 2024 at the Probation Officers Professional Association of Indiana (POPAI) annual fall conference, Stephanie Eddy, of the Wells County Probation Department, was presented the “Line Probation Officer of the Year Award.”
The Line Probation Officer of the Year was established in 2014 to recognize line probation officers who have performed their duties in an outstanding manner and /or made significant contributions to the field of probation at the local, regional or national level. The recipient may also have brought credit or honor to the profession of probation through participation or involvement in community activities or programs.
Stephanie began in Wells County in July 2000. Since around 2004, she has worked exclusively with juvenile delinquents and for many years was “THE” juvenile probation officer for Wells County.
Chief Probation Officer Greg Werich stated “Stephanie is a probation officer who is sufficiently self-motivated. She provides behind the scenes leadership for juvenile matters in our community for a variety of taskforces and committees. She finds time for innovation and individual probationer attention. Last year, she began the “Stephanie Stars” Incentive Program where juvenile probationers earn opportunities to collect star stickers for incentive prizes.”
Judge Kenton Kiracofe stated “Stephanie’s commitment to her role is evident through her active involvement in each case she handles. Her hands-on approach ensures that she maintains a strong, supportive presence in the lives of the juveniles she supervises. Her experience, wisdom and support have helped me become a better judge, for which I am deeply grateful.”