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News  Clarence "Jeep" Jones: First African-American Juvenile Probation Officer in Boston

Clarence “Jeep “Jones was the first known African-American Juvenile Probation Officer in Boston.
3/19/2021
  • Massachusetts Probation Service

Media Contact   for Clarence "Jeep" Jones: First African-American Juvenile Probation Officer in Boston

Coria Holland, Communications Director

Photo Credit: The Bay State Banner photo files.

Clarence "Jeep" Jones
Clarence Jeep Jones shortly before his passing in February 2020.

Mr. Jones, who passed away at age 86 in February 2020, worked for the Massachusetts Probation Service from 1965 to 1968.

He was recruited to work for the City of Boston by then Mayor Kevin White following his stint with MPS. He served as the Deputy Mayor from 1968 to 1981. Mr. Jones also served as the executive director of the city’s Youth Opportunity Task Force.

Clarence "Jeep" Jones
Mr. Jones around the time he left Probation.

A trailblazer and community activist, Mr. Jones is recognized as a central figure in the redevelopment of the city which led to a “building renaissance that transformed the city’s skyline,” according to Northeastern University’s Roxbury History Project. He is also noted for his role as a moderator between the city’s Black community leaders and city administration during Boston’s busing era.

Mr. Jones had many notable firsts including being the first African-American Juvenile Probation Officer, director of the city’s Youth Opportunity Task Force, deputy mayor, and chairman of the Boston Redevelopment Authority.

Media Contact   for Clarence "Jeep" Jones: First African-American Juvenile Probation Officer in Boston

  • Massachusetts Probation Service 

    MPS's main goal is to keep communities safe and to provide people on probation with the rehabilitative tools they need to live a productive and law-abiding life.

    Effective Monday, July 20, 2020, the Office of the Commissioner of Probation will be open to the public by appointment only. If you wish to make an appointment or speak with someone regarding sealing or expunging a record or have questions for the Records Unit, please call (617) 557-0225.
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