Probation Announces New Chief Deputy

Chief Probation Officer Isabelle Voit announced Tuesday the selection of William Fenton as the new Chief Deputy Probation Officer.  He replaces Bruce Lillis who retires on May 6 after more than 36 years of Solano County service. Fenton’s appointment is effective May 9.

“I am very happy to bring Bill on board. His career has been distinguished, and he brings valuable knowledge and experience to the job,” said Chief Voit.

Fenton’s career began in the Los Angeles County juvenile halls.  He rose through the ranks of the Los Angeles County Probation Department before relocating to Northern California in 2006 when he accepted the position of Deputy Chief Probation Officer in Alameda County.  There he was promoted to Assistant Chief Probation Officer in 2008.

Fenton is well versed in both state and local probation-related issues and has been actively involved in several national and state-wide professional organizations including the California Association of Probation Institution Administrators for more than 20 years.  He is Past President of the California Probation Parole and Correctional Association, a statewide organization involving all levels and all disciplines in the local correctional system.

“Bill is respected statewide for his knowledge of criminal justice and juvenile detention issues,” Voit said.

Fenton was raised in Denver and moved to the Los Angeles area to attend college.  He is a graduate of California State University, Northridge.

He lives in Carmichael, with his wife Barbara where they enjoy bike riding, hiking, and golf during their spare time. They have six children, two granddaughters, and their first grandson is due this summer.

Info from Solano County