A former probation officer who has worked her way through all levels of court services has been appointed as the department’s new director.

Zina-Dawn Trott takes the helm after a period working in the Cabinet Office, where she was able to build on her knowledge of policy development and implementation, as well as the administration of the Public Service, the Government said. 

A spokeswoman added: “As director, Dr Trott will oversee the management and administration of programmes and services designed to provide alternatives to incarceration, reduce recidivism and protect the community by assessing and addressing behaviours of offenders on community supervision orders; submitting reports to the courts and the parole board on services provided and results achieved; and overseeing the provision of centralised assessments and referrals for substance abusers in the community.”

Dr Trott holds a Doctorate of Strategic Leadership, with a major in strategic foresight, from Regent University in Virginia and a master’s in clinical social work from Florida State University.

The spokeswoman said: “Her education and experiences have equipped her to spearhead community, organisational and executive development initiatives as well as assist individuals and families with acknowledging and addressing life’s challenges.

“Dr Trott has advanced through all levels of the Department of Court Services, commencing as a probation officer and progressing to manager, a post she held for almost 15 years.”

She added: “She looks forward to leading the officers of the department as they provide vital services for the wellbeing of our community.”