Investigator of the Year Award

Greetings DIA members, 
Each year DIA seeks out a worthy nominee to honor as a stellar defense professional with the Investigator of the Year Award.  The DIA commenced presenting this award in 2007 to recognize excellence in Defense Investigations.  This award is presented to a DIA member in good standing who best exemplifies the dedication and determination required to perform the duties of a defense investigator at the highest professional level. 

We encourage you to take the opportunity to nominate a colleague; highlight and share the invaluable contributions to criminal defense work they have made.  We are accepting nominations for the Investigator of the Year Award.  Send us an e-mail learn about the nomination requirements. 

                 - The DIA IOYA Committee (Kristy Leon & Alfonso Ochoa)

For More Details Download PDF Document Here

2025 
DIA
Investigator of the Year

Justin Hill
Investigator with the
Contra Costa County
Public Defender


Award presented by 
Northern Board Member, Kristy Leon 
& 
Southern Board Member. Alfonso Ochoa

Investigator of the Year
Over the years

2025 - Justin Hill, Contra Costa

2024 - Nelly De La Mora, San Diego APD

2023 - Ryan Niss, Ventura   & 
Marco Garcia, Orange

2022 - A. Ace Pierce, Bakersfield

2021 - Bianca Garcia, Solano

2020 - Valerie Preciado, Orange

2019 - Chas Wiggins, Ventura 

2018 - Eric Castellanos, Orange





Excellence in Investigations

Commitment to Justice

Compassion for Clients

Passion for Training

2017 - None Awarded

2016 - Jeff Foss, San Bernardino

2015 - Thomas Holcombe, San Bernardino

2013-2014 - None Awarded

2012 - Bill Van Cleave,

2011 - Wendy Carlton, Ventura

2010- None Awarded

2009 - Annette Town, Ventura

2008 - John Blackburn, PI

2007 - David Epps, Santa Clara Alternate