Felony Probation officer receives 2026 Liberty Bell award by Houston County Bar Association

PERRY — The Houston County Bar Association awarded its annual Liberty Bell award to Tony Zoumberis for his decade of service to the Department of Community Supervision. 

The Liberty Bell is the most prestigious award given by a lawyer to a non-lawyer. Every year, the association recognizes an individual whose service strengthens the justice system, promotes respect for the law and contributes to the effective functioning of government. 

On Friday, the Perfect Pear was packed with Zoumberis’s family and colleagues to celebrate his recognition. 

He serves as a felony probation officer at the Houston County Courthouse. Senior Assistant District Attorney Mike Smith said Zoumberis has been involved in the felony probation department since 1999. He previously served in nearby counties before moving on to Houston County in 2009. He has been part of the county’s court team since 2012. 

According to Smith’s letter of recommendation for Zoumberis, his role places him at the center of every criminal court proceeding in Houston County. His responsibilities include criminal trial calendars, motions calendars, accountability court report-outs and day reporting center report-outs. 

Zoumberis works closely with every component of the criminal justice system including defense counsel, prosecutors, judges, the clerk’s office, victim advocates, legal assistants, the Houston County Jail, law enforcement officers and other criminal justice professionals. He plays a critical role to make sure the sentencing documentation is complete, accurate and properly distributed. 

“Tony keeps us straight, corrects us a lot, makes sure cases are legal…but [that’s] several of the things Tony does behind the scenes,” he said. 

In the letter of recommendation, Smith wrote his contributions to the legal community extend beyond his responsibilities. He said when questions arise in court, judges, defense attorneys and prosecutors turn to Zoumberis for guidance. 

“His work may often occur behind the scenes, but it is essential to the effective and orderly administration of justice in Houston County. He is dependable when others need answers, diligent when accuracy matters and consistently willing to assist those around him,” he wrote.  

The DCS is responsible for the supervision of approximately 200,000 felony probationers and paroles in the state. Its mission is to protect and serve the state through effective and efficient community supervision while providing opportunities for successful outcomes, their website says. Smith said he exemplifies what the Liberty Bell award represents. 

When receiving the award, Zoumberis shared his appreciation for the bar association and colleagues. 

“I couldn’t be where I am if it wasn’t for all of y’all. All of you made me who I am, Judges, great leaders make a great team. [It’s] because of them that I am getting this [award],” he said.