A press release from Indiana Courts shares that Indiana Chief Justice Loretta Rush recognized probation officers from across the state for their dedication to public service during an annual educational conference.
Twenty-eight officers were honored for their years of service and exemplary work, including one induction into the prestigious Order of Augustus. A judge from Pulaski County was also recognized for her work with veterans.
Order of Augustus
The Order of Augustus is awarded annually to a probation officer who has been nominated by members of their community and selected by the Probation Officers Advisory Board. The honor recognizes outstanding commitment, leadership, and personal dedication to the field of probation.
For 2026, the Board named Christine Kerl, Chief Probation Officer for Marion County, as the recipient of the Order of Augustus Award. This distinction celebrates a career defined by accountability, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to positive change within Indiana’s justice system.
Steven P. Mennemeyer Award
The Steven P. Mennemeyer Award honors an individual who has made the most significant impact, achievement, or contribution to veterans in Indiana through their work in the criminal justice system. Pulaski County Judge Crystal A. Kocher was recognized for her exceptional commitment and leadership in advancing veteran-centered justice initiatives across the state.
25 Years of Service
Probation officers reaching 25 years of service were recognized for their long-standing dedication and the vital role they play in promoting rehabilitation, community safety, and justice across the state.
Heath Adkins, Monroe County Probation
Lisa Brittain, Daviess County Probation
Christopher Brophy, Tippecanoe County Probation
Jesse Carlton, St. Joseph County Adult Probation
Melissa Chapman, Carroll County Probation
Christina Cox, Cass County Adult Probation
Conzzula DeLong, Anderson City Court Probation
Michelle Dresbaugh, Newton County Probation
Nikki Faletic, Monroe County Probation
Brent Fultz, Morgan County Probation
Andria Geigle, Montgomery County Probation
Elizabeth Greenwell, Vanderburgh County Probation
Penny Guthrie, Wayne County Probation
Kelli Heath, DeKalb County Probation
Julianne Ivory, St. Joseph County Adult Probation
Meredith Kraft, Clarksville Town Court Probation
Courtney Kruszynski, St. Joseph County Juvenile Probation
Jeremie Lovall, Howard County Probation
Ember Morris, Clinton County Probation
Jessica Nix, Wells County Probation
Steven McKamey, Howard County Probation
Troy Proffitt, Miami County Probation
Brandon Ray, Hamilton County Probation
James Taylor, Porter County Adult Probation
Johninda Taylor, Putnam County Probation
Michelle Urbanski, St. Joseph County Probation
Danyel Wagner, Noble County Probation
To view and download photographs, visit their Flickr page at https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCSC43.
The annual justice services conference is hosted by the Indiana Office of Court Services, which is part of the Office of Judicial Administration. IOCS serves as the state’s judicial research and continuing judicial education agency. It develops and sponsors educational programming for judges, probation officers, and other court personnel. The office works to enhance the performance of the judicial system by continuously improving the professional competence of probation officers.
