Past Spirit of the Compact Recognitions

PA II Supervisor
Truesee is amazing to work with. She always willing to help with a resolution for a client whenever we reach out to CA for assistance. She is knowledgeable and very fair in her approach. Her common sense and civility when working on issues is very much appreciated and we value her and CA team. We love having CA as a neighbor and that is large part due to the style of leadership and the approach Truesee takes when faced with any issue. Ruby McClorey Oregon Interstate Compact
Nominated By: ruby mcclorey
Interstate Compact Supervisor/Community Corrections Agent
I am honored to nominate Sylvia Larson for the Spirit of the Compact Award. Sylvia not only is extremely knowledgeable of the ICAOS rules and procedures, she gives her time and talents to others at the ND DOCR. Sylvia is keenly skilled at coming up with solutions to issues that not only comply with ICAOS rules, but doing so with a goal in mind and the resources needed to accomplish that goal. An example is offering alternative solutions to violations that require retaking to ensure public safety, but also making efficient use of resources. Sylvia takes time to communicate with receiving state staff and the defendant to clearly explain the situation, explore solutions, and implement the solution that is most effective. Sylvia is firm and fair when it comes to compact deadlines and ensures the staff she supports is following through with needed tasks. When there is an ICAOS issue or question, Sylvia is usually the first person for many staff to lean on for help. I appreciate Sylvia immensely and enthusiastically nominate her for the Spirit of the Compact Award.
Respectfully,
Tom Erhardt
Chief Parole/Probation Officer
North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation
Nominated By: Tom Erhardt
Probation Officer
Nebraska would like to nominate Therese Giglia of Nebraska Probation for the Spirit of the Compact Award. Her unwavering dedication, innovative thinking, and exceptional leadership in the realm of interstate compact operations have significantly elevated the efficiency and effectiveness of Nebraska's largest Probation district (District 4A) processes and beyond.

Therese has demonstrated unparalleled initiative by developing a comprehensive tracking system for every interstate compact client assigned to her probation district. This system ensures that no case detail is overlooked and that every client’s needs are addressed in a timely manner.
In addition to her meticulous organizational skills, Therese has fostered an outstanding working relationship with the Douglas County Attorney’s Office. Her collaborative approach has streamlined the approval process for interstate transfer-out cases, reducing delays and ensuring clients receive timely resolutions.

As the primary point person for all things interstate compact in District 4A, Therese is an invaluable resource for her colleagues. She regularly sends reminders to probation officers about critical due dates for tasks such as transfer replies and case closures, significantly improving Nebraska's compliance with interstate compact requirements.

Moreover, Therese’s commitment to supporting her peers extends beyond her district. She has created comprehensive "how-to" guides and step-by-step instructions for completing tasks in ICOTS, which have been shared with other probation districts across the state. These tools have not only enhanced efficiency but also standardized practices statewide, setting a high benchmark for operational excellence.

Therese embodies the spirit of teamwork, innovation, and service excellence that the Spirit of the Compact Award seeks to recognize. Her dedication to ensuring compliance, streamlining processes, and supporting her colleagues has made her an indispensable asset to Nebraska Probation and a shining example of professional excellence.

I wholeheartedly endorse Senior Probation Officer Therese Giglia for this prestigious award, confident that her contributions have had a profound and lasting impact on Nebraska’s probation system and interstate compact operations.

Nominated By: Jacey R Rader
Compact Office member - Probation
I have had the privilege of working with Donna Reed for a number of years now through our respective Compact Offices. Donna is my lead point of contact with the Massachusetts Probation Interstate Office as the Probation DCA is regularly tasked to other duties outside of the Compact. Donna is always ready and willing to assist with issues that arise on cases. She continually has a terrific attitude and is truly the "knowledge base" for Interstate Compact matters within Massachusetts Probation.

I want to highlight one (of many) incidents where Donna graciously dropped what she was working on to assist me and Maine Probation Officers.

On December 12, 2024, Maine Probation Officers were sent to a court outside of Boston to extradite a client, wanted on a Maine Interstate Probation warrant. The client was on probation for Domestic Violence Assault and had absconded over 2 years previous. The Officers were fully credentialed and had all required paperwork with them. Upon appearing in the courtroom, the Judge told the Maine Probation Officers that she was not going to release the client to their custody as her experience was that only the Maine State Police extradited clients on Maine warrants. The Maine Probation Officers advised the Judge that they have extradited numerous clients on Probation warrants over the years and that Maine Probation does in fact extradite its own clients, not the Maine State Police. The Judge passed on the case and continued with the docket list.

The Judge revisited this case 1 hour 45 minutes later at the end of the docket list, stated that she needed to research the matter, and adjourned the Courtroom. At that time, one of the Maine Probation Officers called me up to advise what was transpiring in the Court. The Officer further advised that they believed the Judge was not going to allow them to extradite the client based on everything they witnessed in the Courtroom. Once I had the information, I hung up and called Donna to inform of the situation. Donna listened to the information I provided and told me she would contact the Court to advise them that the Maine Probation Officers had the right under Compact Rules to extradite the client.

In less than 20 minutes, Donna had made contact with Massachusetts Probation Officers based in the Courthouse. She explained the situation and what she needed the Massachusetts Probation Officers to do. One of those Officers went into the Judge's chamber to advise that the Maine Probation Officers were legally allowed to be the State of Maine's representatives to return the client to Maine. The Judge appeared on the bench again shortly thereafter and allowed the Maine Probation Officer to take possession of the client to return him to Maine.

This outcome was only obtained by Donna Reed being willing to drop what she was doing and work on finding a remedy to a problem that was unfolding. Through her willingness to do this, Maine Probation was able to leave with the client and not waste a day of travel to Massachusetts without bringing the client back. A dangerous client was safely returned to Maine and remanded to custody to await further probation violation proceedings. This was all due to Donna's willingness to assist. This is one of many examples that I experience regularly with Donna. She is always one to help and solve issues and this helps to make the Compact run as efficiently as possible between our states. I am appreciative of Donna's dedication to the Interstate Compact and of her continually trying to do the right thing when dealing with Compact matters.
Nominated By: Denis Clark
Compact Parole Officer II
I don't have enough words to adequately explain all that Cynthia has been to Kansas Interstate Compact. Cynthia has been with KS ICU since 2003. That longevity speaks for itself. Her hard work and dedication are unmatched by anyone that I've worked alongside before. When I began my career with Kansas compact as the DCA in October of 2022 our office experienced an 80% staff turnover. With only 4 compact staff members at the time including myself (DCA) due to vacancies we often found ourselves operating with only 3 staff total, Cindy graciously took time to train all new staff as well as myself as the new DCA, while also striving relentlessly to complete her own tasks and duties. Cindy always shows a willingness to help others. Taking phone calls and spending significant time explaining the rules of the compact, or clarifying procedures or helping users navigate the ICOTS system. Her attitude has always been one of willingness to help others with considerable patience and respect. In our most stressful and difficult times I have never witnessed Cindy allow it to get the best of her. Her positive, uplifting and teamwork mentality has never waiver weather she is working with other states' compact offices to come up with a resolution to a pressing issue, working with our local ICOTS case managers or working alongside her co-workers within our compact unit. Cindy has been a pillar for our community, as well as Kansas compact and she epitomizes the Spirit of the Compact. After working for compact for over 20 years, Cindy will be retiring in 2025 and what better way to show our appreciation for all that she has done. Many times she has been overlooked for local recognitions within our organization. I believe this is due to a lack of understanding of what all goes into reviewing over 1000 transfers requests and reporting instructions per year and getting them assigned to local agencies within a deadline, or making sure that the return reporting instructions are completed properly and every step is followed per the rules, or having the knowledge to explain the process to family members, supervised individuals, or stakeholder. I have no doubt that Cindy's departure for this work will not only have an impact on our office but also how efficiently the state of Kansas is able to work with other states as well as our clients. As a senior officer, Cindy's retirement will mean that 100% of Kansas Interstate compact staff will now have less than 3 years experience. I would like to take the opportunity to say "Thank you" to Cindy and honor her with this prestigious award. I hope that I am lucky enough to hire someone else like her. Thank you for your consideration.
Nominated By: Fareeda Washington
Director of Interstate Compact Compliance
I am pleased to nominate Renita Wright for the Spirit of the Compact Award. Throughout her remarkable 25-year tenure with the Indiana Office of Court Services, Renita has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the Interstate Compact's principles and mission.

Since joining the office in June 1998, Renita has emerged as an invaluable leader within the state of Indiana and a passionate champion for the Interstate Compact's mission. Her dedication extends beyond merely fulfilling her duties – she has become a powerful voice within the Indiana Office of Court Services, consistently reminding colleagues of the Compact's vital role in promoting public safety and the successful rehabilitation of supervised individuals.

What truly sets Renita apart is her ability to embody the collaborative spirit at the heart of the Interstate Compact. This personal touch and her professional expertise have made her particularly effective in building the strong interstate relationships crucial to the Compact's success.

Renita's long-standing service has been marked by her exceptional ability to navigate complex cases while focusing on the Compact's core public safety mission and supervising individuals' success. Her institutional knowledge, gained over more than two decades of service, has proven invaluable in training new staff and providing guidance to partner agencies throughout Indiana.

As a vocal advocate for the Compact's importance, Renita has consistently demonstrated her understanding that each case represents not just a file number but an opportunity to enhance public safety and support successful rehabilitation. Her dedication to these principles has inspired countless colleagues and helped strengthen the interstate cooperation vital to our shared mission.
Nominated By: Chris Biehn
Administrative Programs Officer II/Hearing Officer
It is my pleasure to nominate Tom Verplank for the Spirit of the Compact Award. Mr. Verplank is an Administrative Programs Officer II, overseeing outgoing Interstate Compact Parole cases. He is also the subject matter expert within the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services Community Supervision Services on probable cause hearings serving as the agency’s Hearing Officer. As such, he conducts these hearings for supervised individuals the same as is done for our own instate clients. He is the individual that prepares the written report/documentation that accompanies Violation Reports to the sending state as well as Progress Reports in those cases in which there are new pending charges. He is also the individual that conducts the courtesy probable cause hearing upon request by the sending state in cases of abscond when the individual is apprehended in Nebraska. In the role of Hearing Officer, Mr. Verplank also assists in training new officers and other staff on the probable cause hearing process, having recently joined one of our Specialized Parole Officers and me in presenting this training to staff. He also serves on the Staff Desk Reference Work Group, a work group that was reformed several years ago to revise and create new checklists and flow charts to assist our colleagues who supervise Compact clients and to assist in navigating the Interstate Compact Offender Tracking System (ICOTS). In 2024, the ICAOS Training, Education & PR Committee on which I serve, was tasked to provide feedback on the Hearing Officer’s Guide, including some questions for the FAQ section that were being incorporated. Due to his expertise, at my request Mr. Verplank reviewed the documents and provided feedback which was shared with the National Office and Chair of the ICAOS Training Committee. He also reviewed the revised version that resulted from the feedback received from Committee members; publication of the revised/updated guide was announced and made available by the Commission in July 2024. Mr. Verplank is well versed in Compact matters, having previously served as backup in my absence. With his 40+ years of experience, having also served as a Parole Officer, Sex Offender Specialized Parole Officer, and Supervisor over field Parole Officers and now some of our Administrative Support staff, he has a wealth of knowledge and experience and is always willing to share what he knows with others. His dedication to public safety and the exemplary leadership he displays is demonstrated through his work with the Compact. His expertise is invaluable to those of us who work with him daily, and he is deserving of recognition for what he has done and continues to do in his work with the Compact.
Nominated By: Sally Reinhardt-Stewart
Probation and Parole Agent - Interstate Compact Specialist
I am honored to nominate Agent Janilee Wolff for the Spirit of the Compact award. Janilee has been Probation and Parole Agent in WI since 2000, and began specializing in Interstate Compact cases in 2002 - her tenure of working with Interstate Compact cases is as long as the modern Compact has been in place, and her dedication to the mission of the Compact hasn't waivered. Janilee is recognized by her colleagues and supervisors as resource for all things Interstate Compact. She demonstrates exceptional knowledge and often shares complex or unusual Interstate Compact scenarios with her co-workers and supervisors which has helped all field staff expand their knowledge base, undoubtedly having a positive ripple effect for clients across our state, and those leaving to be supervised out of state. She frequently volunteers to train new staff, and she is regularly involved in workgroups to improve our intrastate Interstate Compact processes. Janilee is also a resource for Compact Office staff. She is quick to advise on field processes and how they correspond to Interstate Compact rules, assisting in coming up with positive solutions to challenging situations. She has an upbeat energy that fosters a positive environment for colleagues, stakeholders, and supervised individuals. After a supervised individual is accepted to transfer to WI, Janilee works closely with them to ensure their stability. She is responsive to their treatment needs. Additionally, she thoroughly investigates supervised individuals' violations and applies graduated accountability responses and interventions on a case by case basis to ensure victim and public safety. With over two decades of expertise and dedication, she strikes the balance between safe practices and effective supervision, embodying the spirit of the Compact.
Nominated By: Brenna Kojis
Parole Officer
Officer Greg Frankart exemplified the true spirit of interstate collaboration and commitment to rehabilitation through his exceptional handling of a complex supervision case involving an individual from Indiana.

While supervising the individual, who had absconded from Indiana, Officer Frankart quickly responded to the situation following the individual's arrest on both the Indiana warrant and new Ohio charges. He diligently completed the necessary probable cause process, even as the supervisee remained in Ohio navigating multiple new charges across two counties.

As the final Ohio charge neared resolution, the presiding judge expressed interest in releasing the supervisee to a treatment program in lieu of continued incarceration. However, the outstanding Indiana warrant posed a barrier. In response, both Indiana and Ohio agreed to continue supervision collaboratively and waived the retake requirement.

Upon being informed of this decision, Officer Frankart demonstrated exceptional initiative. Without being asked, he proactively contacted the local probation department and treatment facility to gather current information on the supervisee. He ensured the Ohio case was promptly re-opened and maintained open, effective communication with Indiana authorities regarding the individual’s status.

Officer Frankart’s actions went above and beyond routine duty. His ability to recognize and respond to the needs of the individual, while balancing interstate cooperation and community interests, was seamless and unwavering. He did not view this as just another "out-of-state case," but instead showed compassion, professionalism, and a deep understanding of the Compact's mission.

His initiative, communication, and commitment to rehabilitation reflect the highest standards of the Interstate Compact and make him an outstanding candidate for the Spirit of the Compact Award.
Nominated By: Suzanne Brooks
Assistant Interstate Compact Coordinator
The reason why I am nominating Kristina Ruggerio is because for one she is very professional, knowledgeable, and a leader in my department. She is the one who responds to all our emails and assists our field with help when needed. She has 10 years plus experience within the ICOTS department. I believe she will be an extraordinary coordinator in the near future.
When I started 2 years ago, I learned what I know now. When I had difficulty, she was very helpful and now I am more confident as a compact coordinator.
Nominated By: Themar Dumay
Program Coordinator
Jason is extremely helpful in training new ICOTS staff and in giving 100% to ensure the Spirit of the Compact. He works with parole staff at the field level to make sure that they understand the rules and the procedures to establish a smooth process for ICOTS parolees. He frequently reaches out to staff to ask if they are in need of assistance and willingly helps when this is the case. He is knowledgeable about where to find information and what information to include and he readily jumps in when needed to complete a task.
Nominated By: Thomas Creamer
Administrative Specialist
Michael Harrison has been integral part of the Delaware Interstate Compact Office for over 15 years. His vast knowledge and experience with the ICAOS rules have made him uniquely suited to assist Delaware Probation/Parole Officer and Staff members throughout the state. This has made him the "go to" person when Officers have questions regarding the Interstate Compact. He has worked closely with Officers and Staff to correct mistakes in ICOTS, provide guidance on interstate questions, assist with transfers, and help with VOP and progress reports. Michael Harrison has worked tirelessly to keep the Delaware ICAOS Audit compliance rate extremely high. He has done this through teamwork with Officers by reminding them of the due dates and ensuring that the tasks are completed on time. Mike Harrison has fostered a good relationship with his counterparts in other states through his ability to work with other states to find a solution when issues arise with their cases or Delaware cases. Through these actions Michael Harrison has contributed significantly to the Commission's mission here in Delaware and has been an asset to the Interstate Compact Unit as well as the Department of Correction.
Nominated By: Christopher DeNunzio
ISC Administrative Assistant II
Gracie is instrumental in ensuring the AZ Community Corrections ISC unit is in
compliance with the timeframes within ICAOS Rules by reviewing the Action Reports in the ICAOS system. Gracie will send out notices to the States where an action is required on an ISC transferred offender. Gracie ensures this is completed on a weekly basis. By doing so, this ensures AZ Community Corrections is within timeframes, set by ICAOS. Gracie along with DCA Poyzer, has also helped to update our tracking system from Microsoft
Excel to Google Sheets. This has not been an easy task, as we have been telecommuting from home due to Covid-19, and
while updating the system there are changes that must be continuously monitored and updated. Gracie has continued to take responsibility, and is a
contributing team member who ensures the goals of the unit and ADCRR are met on a daily basis. Gracie has accepted additional duties to ensure that tasks are completed in a timelier manner. She has solely taken on the task of updating our tracking systems for the IADs, and Google Sheets which is a system that thus far is continuing to change depending on the needs of ISC, and the direction of our DCA. By doing this, it will also allow the ISC unit to maintain our logs in a more effective manner. Gracie continues to ensure the IAD process has been completed, a final disposition is obtained, and destroy the files that are no longer active. Gracie always ensures the TR packets submitted from the private facilities are accurate and complete prior to entering them into ICOTS within time frames. Gracie’s dedication to the job is well respected, appreciated, and it should be noted that Gracie has been completing these tasks for ISC for over 17 yrs.
Nominated By: Michael R Osborne
Community Reentry Officer (Parole Officer)
Javier respectfully listens to others to gain a full understanding of issues. He will ask
questions for clarification if he is unsure as to how to proceed with a task or project. When interacting with institutional staff he ensures they have a clear understanding as to what is needed to complete any task or project. Javier has no problem with conveying his thoughts, ideas, and concepts in his verbal and written communications. . This is a task that has been very difficult at times due to the Covid19 Pandemic, and our telecommuting from home. Javier understands that all employees have external and/or internal
customers and stakeholders and that they provide services and information that honors all of the agency's commitments to
customers by providing helpful, courteous, accessible, responsive, and knowledgeable service. Javier's 41 plus years of experience comes to light in this
area. With Javier's Customer Service Expertise, and his outstanding investigative practices, he has been able to contact sponsor's of offender's who have Absconded, and gained information in an effort to track down the offender's and bring them back into compliance without issuing a warrant. Javier's knowledge of ADC protocols, and investigative practices are a valuable tool for the ISC Unit.
Nominated By: Michael R Osborne
Probation Officer
Micaela recently started supervising interstate compact cases in Cleveland, Ohio, after the previous officer left for another position. Micaela immediately immersed herself in training opportunities offered by State of Ohio staff to quickly become a subject matter expert in Ohio. Micaela worked within her office to work on an agreement to supervise all interstate cases for the court. In a county where there are over 30 presiding judges, this can be challenging when there is not always a strong understanding of the compact rules and regulations.

Micaela recently had a case that involved a mandatory retaking obligation due to a new felony conviction from the State of Oregon. The violation on the Ohio case would not exceed the new sentence in the receiving state. While not a practice that is heavily utilized in Ohio, Micaela worked diligently to schedule a remote violation hearing with the judge and prosecutor, as the supervised individual also had an obligation with another state this offered the opportunity for this individual to address his violation behavior quickly and effectively from one of the jurisdictions that he owed time to. Micaela looks at cases from the standpoint of not only effective supervision strategies but also in a way that provides the best outcome for the individual and the states that are involved.

As Micaela works in the most populated county in the State of Ohio, she has worked tirelessly to identify gaps in her probation department and court system regarding non-compliance of interstate compact rules and opportunities to educate on the processes. Micaela has been offered space at one of the judges' monthly meetings to discuss interstate compact topics, which is no small feat. Micaela is not afraid to have difficult conversations with involved court personnel when compliance issues arise.

Micaela truly embodies the spirit of the compact as she works diligently to provide effective supervision and works with all involved stakeholders. Micaela recently assisted Ohio Parole staff in scheduling a PC hearing at Cuyahoga County Jail via Zoom. In person hearings have been eliminated since COVID at this facility so it has been a struggle when a PC hearing has been required at this location. Micaela did not have to assist in any way with this hearing as this was being supervised by parole but not only did she have communications with jail staff, she personally scheduled this hearing for parole.

I could go on and on about the great work that Micaela does; however, her actions definitely speak for themselves. She constantly goes above and beyond to assist others and works to provide those under her supervision the best chance for success.
Nominated By: Suzanne Brooks
Lead Agent/Interstate Compact Unit
Lead Agent Julie Socia consistently goes above and beyond her job duties. Lead Agent Socia is actively involved in every area of the Interstate Process. She is constantly in communication with other States to accommodate their requests and to make sure that Michigan is providing quality reports to other states. Her work product is beyond reproach always going the extra mile researching solutions to any difficult problem and coming up with creative solutions to address any issue.
Lead Agent Socia is constantly training Michigan Agents and Supervisors via phone, email, Microsoft TEAMS and in person. Lead Agent Socia shows professionalism in all of her interactions with all stakeholders and has impeccable character and integrity. Michigan's bordering States, who have frequent contact with Lead Agent Socia, confirm her professionalism, willingness to address issues and speed with which she responds to requests. Lead Agent Socia cares deeply about her work being completed with detail and precision. She is a great asset to the Interstate Compact Unit, the Michigan Department of Corrections and the Interstate Community.
Nominated By: Daryn E Cobb
Chief Probation Officer
On behalf of Connecticut Adult Probation, I nominate compact office staff member, Chief Probation Officer William Neuweiler, for the ‘Spirit of the Compact’ award.

In 2012, Connecticut needed to expand the Interstate Compact office. At that time, William transferred to the office as the first probation officer to be a part of the Compact staff. William began immersing himself in understanding the Compact rules and learning how to navigate Compact activities, but more so, began to understand the unspoken language of the ‘Spirit of the Compact’.

When Connecticut fell out of compliance with violation activity, William developed a system on how to track/respond to violation activity. His system allowed for working directly with field staff to ensure warrants were completed and entered promptly. This system would get Connecticut back into compliance long before dashboards were available.

In 2023, the Interstate Compact office expanded to include the position of Chief Probation Officer I, which was awarded to William as he consistently went above and beyond demonstrating remarkable effort and dedication to the compact. His commitment to understanding not just the rules, but the ‘spirit’ of such, made William an easy choice for the position. William always conducts his work in the best interest of the supervised individual, allowing them to have the best chance of success while on probation. He believes in doing things for the right reasons, within the compact.

Given William’s length of time with the Interstate Compact office, he has built relationships with many states' compact office staff and works through various problems, coming up with the best solution for the given scenario. In addition, William demonstrates and passes along his knowledge of the Compact to field staff making him a key point of contact for Connecticut. Field staff know they can reach out to William at any time to understand and navigate the Compact, inspiring them to be on board in helping the supervised individual be where they will have the most success.

William embraces the Interstate Compact, why it was established, and what it is meant to do, not only for tracking purposes but for getting supervised individuals to where they need to be successful. He breathes the true meaning of the ‘Spirit of the Compact’.
Nominated By: Alexandra Modica
Parole Supervisor
Parole Supervisor Timothy Diakon has been assigned to the Interstate Unit within the Connecticut Board of Pardons & Paroles for over 15 years. He first entered the unit as a Parole Officer and was promoted to Parole Supervisor of the unit 3 years ago. During his tenure in the unit, he has gone above and beyond in his duties. As a Parole Officer, he participated in a "Lean Project" for the Interstate process in Connecticut, which explored ways to make the overall process more efficient. The "Lean Project" was part of the former Governor of Connecticut's initiative to streamline procedures throughout all state agencies. As a subject matter expert during this project, he offered valuable solutions which led to major changes to the overall process. Prior to this project, all supervising field Parole Officers and Parole Supervisors had accounts in ICOTS, which led to overdue responses and lower overall audit numbers. It became apparent during the project that it would be more efficient to only have members of the Interstate Unit have access to ICOTS to improve response times. Mr. Diakon was one of the strong voices at that time for that change to be implemented. After the project was completed, a report that included this major change was submitted to the Chairperson and to the Commissioner of the Department of Correction. Soon after, this new process was implemented. The CT Interstate office then took over the entire responsibility of communication in ICOTS and decreased the number of users on the ICOTS system from over 120 employees to 5. Immediately upon implementation, Connecticut's audit numbers have been near or at the top of the country for the past 12-13 years.

From his first day in the unit as a Parole Officer in 2009, he understood the importance of the "The Spirit of the Compact". He obviously always followed the ICAOS rules, but when unique situations arose that required tough decisions to be made he always investigated ways with all stakeholders in the case to make the best decision for the supervised person and their families while keeping public safety in mind. He has also taken great pride in communicating and working hand and hand with the supervised persons family to ensure that their transfer is seamless from state to state. He also instituted the practice in Connecticut of providing transportation to the supervised person who needed a ride to the airport, bus or train station when necessary if they had no other options. I personally had the pleasure of participating in extraditions with Mr. Diakon on many occasions. No matter the circumstances of the violation or the history of the supervised person, he treated them and their families with the utmost respect. As the Supervisor of the unit, when different interpretations of a particular rule have arisen with other states he has shown time and time again that he is more than capable of finding a solution prior to it getting to the DCA level. When he was promoted to Supervisor he initiated many meetings with the field staff in Connecticut explaining the rules of the interstate compact and the importance of the "Spirit of the Compact" and what that means. He has also stressed to newer members of the unit of the importance of the spirit of the compact, which will carry on for years to come. He has been a valued and well respected employee in our agency for many years and has reflected the true meaning of the spirit of the interstate compact.

If you need any additional information please feel free to contact me at (203) 509-9157. Thank you.
Nominated By: Joseph Garibaldi
Correctional Programs Administrator
I am honored to nominate Correctional Program Administrator Chris Lane for the Spirit of the Compact Award. With over two decades of dedicated service at the Florida Department of Corrections, Mr. Lane has consistently demonstrated exceptional commitment, compassion, and professionalism in his role at the Interstate Compact Office. He has served 18 years in a leadership position and has touched countless lives throughout his career. He has provided unwavering support to the staff and has served those under supervision with respect and compassion while ensuring public safety.

Throughout his career, Mr. Lane's contributions have been nothing short of extraordinary. His day-to-day functions involve providing vital support to field operations, and his value to the department is evident in the numerous stories and accolades shared by line staff and leadership. Colleagues consistently commend Mr. Lane for his willingness to assist and his unwavering positive attitude.

Mr. Lane's exemplary dedication and compassion were evident in a recent case involving a homeless individual under supervision awaiting reporting instructions. Despite the complexities involved, Mr. Lane secured a travel permit, ensuring temporary shelter and stability during a vulnerable time. His commitment to addressing immediate needs and navigating legal hurdles sets a remarkable standard for service within the department.

In a similar case, Mr. Lane's assisted a homeless individual facing housing challenges. Despite initial obstacles, he continued to look for a solution, ultimately securing approval for the individual to relocate to New York. In both instances the individuals are now in a stable residence and are in full compliance with the terms of supervision.

In another instance, Mr. Lane's quick thinking and dedication played a crucial role in apprehending a dangerous criminal. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, he worked tirelessly to expedite the issuance of a warrant, resulting in the swift arrest of the individual. Mr. Lane's actions exemplify his unwavering commitment to keeping the public safe.

Additionally, Mr. Lane demonstrated exceptional empathy and problem-solving skills in assisting an officer obtain proof of an individual's completion of DUI School. His supportive approach resulted in the successful submission of the necessary documentation, helping the individual avoid further legal complications. These efforts resulted in the individual completing supervision successfully.

These are just a few examples of the ways in which Mr. Lane consistently goes above and beyond in his role. Although these examples of his exemplary work may appear to be expected and routine, they are the ways Mr. Lane touches the lives of those under supervision. He consistently demonstrates this level of dedication and has changed the trajectory of the lives of those with whom he works with daily.

In his leadership role, Mr. Lane has been essential in collaborating with the Commissioner and Deputy Compact Administrator to revive a State Council that had been inactive for over 20 years. With his assistance, the State Council has become highly engaged, introducing new initiatives such as an application fee and a mechanism for partially reimbursing Sheriff's Departments involved in extraditing individuals back to Florida. Since July 2022, Florida has collected over $640,000 in application fees and provided reimbursements to Sheriffs across the state through 146 approved requests.

However, what truly sets Mr. Lane apart is the immense admiration he receives from field staff. During a recent Supervisor Leadership Graduation, approximately 35 elite Supervisors toured Central Office where the Interstate Compact Office is located. Throughout the tour, they repeatedly expressed a desire to meet Mr. Lane. They regard him as a rock star and eagerly awaited meeting him in person and thank him for his support. In addition, compact staff across the nation regard Mr. Lane with gratitude and respect. He works with the other states sorting difficult situations, always working within the spirit of the compact.

Below are comments from the field.

“Chris Lane defines teamwork as he assists all Community Corrections staff within the agency. There have been several times when I have needed assistance and he doesn’t hesitate to help. Recently, Mr. Lane assisted by facilitating an expedited request for emergency reporting instructions to the state of Maine. Had it not been for his intervention, this offender would have been sleeping on the streets in Collier County.

Mr. Lane is also a wealth of information and is quick to return calls and emails, seeking his expert direction and guidance. Last week, he assisted with a case where a jail sanction was being imposed for a VOP. Without hesitation, Mr. Lane contacted the other state and within one day, we had our answer. Over the years, Mr. Lane has taught me so much about Interstate Compact policies. He is not only great to work with, but a wonderful person to speak to. He is very much appreciated. FDC is very lucky to have him.”

“Mr. Lane is our go- to person for Interstate Compact. He is the one person you can always count on to assist you in getting clarification or seeking direction on how to handle anything related to ICOTS. In one case I recall, the Jacksonville South office had been trying to get the circumstances for and they were not getting the true circumstances, merely a police report which stated the charge she was arrested for with no circumstances. After reaching out to him we had the real circumstances within 24 hours. This is the norm not the exception when working with Mr. Lane.”

“I think everyone in the state will agree when they think of Interstate Compact, they think of Chris Lane. I know when I was both an officer and field supervisor, he was the first person I would call with an Interstate question. He not only was quick to assist, he ALWAYS KNEW THE ANSWER!!!!! He would be most deserving of any award he is being considered for.”

For these reasons, I respectfully nominate Chris Lane for the Spirit of the Compact Award. His remarkable dedication, compassion, and leadership embody the spirit of the Compact and serve as an inspiration to all who have the privilege of working alongside him.


Nominated By: Joe Winkler
Corrections Field Supervisor
When the announcement was made that the Spirit of the Compact award had been revitalized, both the Commissioner and the Deputy Compact Administrator from Wisconsin immediately thought of Jerri Hertel, an Interstate Compact Specialist and Correctional Field Supervisor in a border county with Minnesota. Jerri has been an Interstate Compact Specialist for eight years, but has worked closely with Interstate Compact supervised individuals and offices during her long tenure with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections as a Probation and Parole Agent, even before specializing as an Interstate Compact Specialist.
Jerri exemplifies the collaborative nature of the Compact, and goes above and beyond in her efforts to assist, support, and engage with her colleagues and clients. She is always the first to step up when coverage is needed across the entire state, even going so far as to offer without hesitation to take over a significant portion of the Deputy Compact Administrator’s work duties while she is out on maternity leave to ensure a seamless transition and workflow between states. In addition to being a go-to person for anyone at the WI Department of Corrections, Jerri has fostered relationships with external stakeholders including judges and other court personnel, county leaders, and numerous other justice partners to ensure the Compact rules are being understood and adhered to ensure victim and public safety and success for our clients.
When presented with unique challenges posed by specific cases or Interstate Compact issues, Jerri meets them head on. She offers to sit on workgroups, takes initiative in systems improvements, and creates resources for Wisconsin stakeholders. Her experience and expertise have proved invaluable in updating Wisconsin’s procedural manual and magistrate manual, as well as creating internal policies surrounding Probable Cause Hearings, the custody of Interstate Compact clients, and Deferred Prosecution cases. Her efforts have assisted in increasing our state’s compliance and the understanding of Compact-related expectations for field staff and supervised individuals. In addition, she played an integral role in streamlining Wisconsin’s process for Probable Cause hearings for Compact cases.
As an Interstate Compact Specialist and Corrections Field Supervisor, Jerri leads by example. Her influence extends far beyond the boundaries of her region, as she volunteers to train staff across the state, and guides agents, new Specialists, and even Compact Office staff when needed. When input from the field is needed by our Compact Office, no one hesitates to call Jerri for guidance, regardless of the region of concern. She tackles issues at a field level to prevent them from escalating to a Compact Office level, and does so with respect and extreme patience for both field staff and supervised individuals. A Commissioner from another state once commented on how amazing Jerri is to work with, and Wisconsin could not agree more. She exemplifies the Spirit of the Compact every day through her ongoing dedication to ensuring public and victim safety, as well as success on supervision. She goes above and beyond without being asked, and our Interstate Compact commission is fortunate that she is part of our team.
Nominated By: Joselyn Lopez