Body of News Release
Marin County, CA – After Marlon Washington’s six years of steadfast leadership of Marin County’s Probation Department, the County of Marin is mourning his unexpected death on Friday, July 10.
Chief Washington joined Marin County in 2020 and led the Probation Department with integrity, compassion, and a commitment to public service. Under his leadership, the department advanced evidence-based practices that balanced accountability with rehabilitation while strengthening partnerships throughout Marin County's justice system. He championed restorative justice and believed probation professionals play a vital role in protecting public safety through transforming the lives of those involved in the criminal justice system. Washington focused on connecting services to successfully reintegrate individuals into the community. His calm leadership, ever-present smile, and collaborative spirit earned him the respect of colleagues throughout Marin County and across California's probation profession.
"Chief Washington devoted his career to helping people build better futures," said County Executive Derek Johnson. "He was a thoughtful and principled leader whose compassion, integrity, and unwavering commitment to service touched countless lives. His genuine care for people made him an exceptional leader and an even better human being. His loss is deeply felt throughout our organization and the broader community.
“On behalf of Marin County, I extend our heartfelt condolences to Marlon's family, friends, colleagues, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing and working with him."
Throughout 29 years of public service, Chief Washington believed in the power of investing in people. In Marin County, he championed the annual Wall of Change, celebrating people on probation turning their lives around and making positive impacts in their communities. He was also an enthusiastic organizer of the County’s Clean Slate program and his department’s participation in the new Southern Marin Annex, both of which brought probation services directly to community members in Marin City. Within the department, he was a proud mentor who invested in his employees, encouraged their professional growth, and instilled confidence in those around him. He took special pride in the Career Explorers program, a paid summer internship that introduced young people – often from challenging backgrounds – to careers in public service.
Chief Washington was appointed Marin County Chief of Probation in July 2020, becoming the first African American Chief Probation Officer in the County’s history and one of only three African American Chief Probation Officers in California at the time of his appointment. Before joining the County, Chief Washington served as Juvenile Hall Superintendent for Napa County and held numerous leadership positions during a distinguished career with the Contra Costa County Probation Department. Across nearly three decades in probation and juvenile justice, he became known for mentoring future leaders, strengthening community partnerships, and advancing equitable, evidence-based practices that improved outcomes for youth, families, and the communities he served.
“Rather than focusing solely on managing operations, I concentrated on creating a shared vision, empowering staff, and fostering innovation,” Chief Washington shared with staff earlier this month when reflecting on his leadership style. “I believe transformational leadership is about inspiring people to see beyond the challenges of today and engage in building a stronger future for the organization and the communities we serve.”
A Richmond native, Chief Washington earned a bachelor's degree in sociology with an emphasis in law and society from the University of California, Davis, and a Master of Science in Law Enforcement and Public Safety Leadership from the University of San Diego. He remained active in numerous professional organizations throughout his career and was widely respected as a leader within California's probation community.
“Marlon Washington will be remembered for the integrity, humility, and compassion he brought to his work every day,” said Eric Lucan, President of the Marin County Board of Supervisors. “He cared deeply about serving the public and was especially passionate about creating opportunities for young people and helping those involved in the justice system build better futures. Through his thoughtful leadership and unwavering commitment to our community, he earned the respect of colleagues, partners, and everyone who had the opportunity to work alongside him. On behalf of the Board of Supervisors, I extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the entire Probation Department as we mourn this tremendous loss.”
Assistant Chief Probation Officer Ed Randle has been appointed Interim Chief Probation Officer while the County determines a longer-term leadership plan. The Probation Department continues to operate without interruption and will continue carrying forward Washington's vision instilled through his professional pillars of excellence, professionalism, integrity and community.
Out of respect for the family's privacy, the County will not be releasing additional details regarding Washington's death. Information regarding memorial services or opportunities to honor his memory will be shared as appropriate and in accordance with the family's wishes.