Sacramento, California - Governor Gavin Newsom today announced leadership changes at the California Department of Corrections, Division of Juvenile Justice (DJJ). Current Director Chuck Supple will be stepping down effective immediately citing health reasons. Heather Bowlds has been appointed chief deputy director of DJJ, and will be acting director until a permanent replacement for Supple is announced. Ross Meier has been appointed deputy director of operations and programs.

“I want to thank Chuck for his tireless dedication and inspiring leadership in juvenile justice. He has played a critical role in DJJ for the last 16 years, and his infectious enthusiasm will be truly missed. We fully support his decision, and wish him all the best,” said Governor Newsom.

Supple was appointed Director of DJJ in August 2017 under Governor Brown. Prior to that, he held several positions in DJJ, including as a parole agent assisting youth in DJJ facilities prepare for reentering their communities, commissioner and executive officer on the Juvenile Parole Board, and chairman of the Board of Juvenile Hearings.​

Bowlds, 43, of Elk Grove, has been deputy director of operations and programs at the Division of Juvenile Justice since 2016. She has served in several positions at the Division of Juvenile Justice since 2004, including associate director of mental health, sexual behavior treatment coordinator, senior psychologist and clinical psychologist. She was a psychological associate at the California Youth Authority from 2002 to 2004. Bowlds earned a Doctor of Psychology degree in forensic psychology from Alliant International University, California School of Professional Psychology. This position does not require Senate confirmation and the compensation is $175,500. Bowlds is registered without party preference.

Meier, 52, of Sacramento, has served as acting chief deputy warden at California State Prison, Sacramento since 2019. Meier has served in several other positions at the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, including associate warden from 2012 to 2019, correctional administrator from 2011 to 2012, special assistant for the chief deputy secretary from 2008 to 2010, facility captain from 2006 to 2008, correctional counselor from 1998 to 20005, and correctional officer from 1991 to 1998. This position does not require Senate confirmation and the compensation is $170,028. Meier is a Republican.