JEFFERSON COUNTY — The Second Judicial Circuit of Illinois has appointed Darla F. Fitzjerrells to the Director of Court Services.

The move, effective Aug. 1, tabs Fitzjerrells to oversee the operations of all probation departments within the circuit as well as the Franklin County Detention Center in Benton.

Chief Judge Thomas Tedeschi cited Fitzjerrells’ work ethic, over 19 years experience, leadership, and dedication as great benefits to the position.

Fitzjerrells was previously a probation officer and later the Chief Probation Officer in the circuit and has a Masters of Arts Degree in Administration of Justice from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. The Second Judicial Circuit of Illinois includes: Jefferson, Crawford, Edwards, Franklin, Gallatin, Hamilton, Hardin, Lawrence, Richland, Wabash, Wayne and White Counties.