👮‍♂️ VERY INSIGHTFUL FIFTH SESSION: FROM COURTS TO PROBATION AND MEDIA SPOTLIGHT

By: Tyler Beadle

BISHOP, CA –

On October 30, 2025, the fifth session of the Third Bishop Community Police Academy delivered a wealth of knowledge to our nine-student class, exploring criminal law, probation, and the role of media in shaping public views. Led by Sergeant Scobie, the evening featured presentations from Inyo County DA Dana Crom, Probation Chief Thomson, and BPD Officer Phil West. This evening was very informative, and I’m grateful for Sergeant Scobie, Chief Derr, and the team’s commitment to this enriching program for our Bishop community.

Kicking off was DA Dana Crom, who was appointed to her role in January 2025. Her slideshow on the criminal and legal process was very informative, breaking down the stages from arrest to trial and sentencing. Crom detailed the DA’s office responsibilities, including charging decisions and courtroom advocacy, while emphasizing victims’ rights under California law, such as timely notifications and restitution opportunities. She clarified the key differences between criminal cases, which focus on punishment for society’s harm, and civil cases, aimed at resolving disputes between individuals. Crom also addressed tough realities, like declining to prosecute due to insufficient evidence, ensuring resources go where they can make the strongest case. Her clear, engaging delivery made complex topics accessible and highlighted the balance of justice in Inyo County.

Next, Probation Chief Thomson offered a fascinating look at probation’s evolution and operations. He shared that Inyo County’s Probation Department was founded in 1912, dedicated to community safety through evidence-based supervision and rehabilitation for adult and juvenile offenders. Thomson traced its roots globally, noting the first modern probation in 1841 when Boston shoemaker John Augustus, known as the “Father of Probation,” bailed out a “common drunkard” from court. Augustus provided counseling, housing, and job help, coining the term “probation” and supervising nearly 2,000 people by 1858 with remarkable success rates. Locally, Thomson explained the probation process: assessments, court-ordered conditions, and ongoing case management to reduce recidivism. He contrasted it with state-run parole, which applies post-prison, underscoring probation’s county-level focus on reintegration. These historical and practical insights were eye-opening, showing how probation fosters second chances in our valley.

Wrapping up, BPD Officer Phil West presented on media and public perception, an intriguing topic for our connected world. He praised local outlets for their balanced coverage of Bishop PD and first responders, but highlighted instances of national media bias that paint broad strokes from isolated incidents. West stressed it’s unfair to judge all officers by one “bad apple,” a sentiment that I share, as it overlooks the dedication of the majority. As a YouTube notable himself, West shared a video with over 23,000 views (as of the date of me writing this) where a recorder harassed him while he was standing outside the courthouse in Bishop; he stayed composed, prioritizing constitutional rights and de-escalation. He also screened clips from prominent YouTuber Donut Operator, whose fair takes on policing I enjoy in my downtime. West wrapped with Q&A, reaffirming his passion for transparent, rights-focused service.

The class concluded around 9:15 p.m., full of valuable perspectives. I really loved uncovering these layers of our justice system and look forward to next week’s session. I hope readers feel the same pull toward this program. For more on the Bishop Police Department, this class, or future ones, contact them directly. Questions about my article or writing? Email [email protected].