Jon Sams

Hello, my name is Jon Sams.  I am a Correctional Sergeant with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.  I began my career as a Correctional Officer in 2011, at the California Medical Facility and promoted to Correctional Sergeant in 2016, at Mule Creek State Prison. In 2017, I began working at the Background Investigation Unit.     

• I decided to enter the field of Corrections and make it my career because: I needed a stable career for my family that came with stellar benefits/pay and upward mobility opportunities to keep me challenged.
• The most unusual job I’ve ever had was: Being assigned as a contraband watch officer. This job occurs when an inmate swallows contraband and needs to be constantly monitored in a special cell, waiting for the contraband to pass. We call it Potty watch, enough said there… 
• The hardest thing I’ve ever done is: Taking on the role of parent with my father who is battling cancer. 
• My favorite way to relax is: Taking a long drive on the river roads in my old school muscle car. 
• My favorite meal is: Breakfast for dinner. Bacon and eggs for sure, perhaps waffles with peanut butter and a dab of syrup.
• You’d be surprised to learn that: I have a sensitive and caring side, mostly seen only by my dog and maybe like 3 people…
• I am most proud of: My Son.  He is the absolute best thing I’ve had a part of in my life. He is always described by others as an old soul. 
• My motto is: There’s no script to truth.     
• If there is one piece of advice I would like to give to anyone considering Corrections as a career, it would be: You have to know your vulnerabilities and be willing to listen to others that walked the walk before you. The lessons they teach will be far greater than anything you could ever learn in a classroom. Listen more, talk less, and size means nothing…