Annual Report_FY 2021_2022
Orange County Sheriff's Department Annual Report FY 21-22
ORANGE COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT
SERVE PROTECT CONNECT
ANNUAL REPORT 2021 - 2022
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Why I Serve
“I chose a job in law enforcement to make an impact; to be able to do my part and help the community in any way I can. Our division deals with matters of loss every day, and I want the community to know that my partners and I work hard to be able to bring closure to those who have lost a loved one.” —BAILEY GRACE, DEPUTY CORONER
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Our Community..................................................... 5
Message from Sheriff Barnes................................. 6
About Us................................................................ 7
Sheriff Service Areas.............................................. 8
By the Numbers..................................................... 9
Highlights for the Year......................................... 10
Year in Review by Command................................ 16
Patrol Operations........................................ 16
Investigations and Special Operations.......... 20
Custody Operations..................................... 26
Administrative Services................................ 30
Professional Services................................... 33
Community Partnerships...................................... 36
Community Services............................................. 39
Join the Sheriff’s Department............................... 42
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OUR COMMUNITY
Thank you to our community who continues to support us We pride ourselves on serving the community and looking out for your safety, however it does not go unnoticed how much you take care of us, too. From friendly waves, to meals dropped off at our stations or thank you notes, we feel your support. These gestures – both big and small – matter to us. We are humbled and we are appreciative.
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MESSAGE FROM SHERIFF BARNES
Thank you for taking the time to read our 2021-2022 Annual Report.
The information contained in these pages represents the outstanding work of the individual divisions of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. Every day, I have the opportunity to see the heart of our organization at work. There are more than 4,000 dedicated women and men, who proudly serve in a variety of positions, all operating together to keep our community safe. In this report, you will meet deputy sheriffs, crime lab technicians, deputy coroners, and financial services personnel. I know you will appreciate the commitment and ingenuity they bring to solve our most demanding challenges and to provide exceptional public safety services. Police-community relations throughout the nation have been challenged over the last few years. Rightfully, the public has asked difficult questions and demanded answers. Orange County has faced issues such as homelessness, decriminalization of property crimes and drug offenses, as well as questions about transparency and policy. This report contains some of the solutions we have developed and implemented to address these concerns. We recognize the Orange County Sheriff’s Department is in partnership with you as a member of our community. You are a co-producer of your own safety and we want to provide you with information that will enable you to make decisions to keep you and your family safe and feel confident in the public safety services we provide.
Thank you again for taking the time to learn more about the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.
Sheriff Don Barnes
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ABOUT US
OC Sheriff’s Executive Command from left to right: Assistant Sheriff Jason Park, Constitutional Policing Advisor Mary Izadi, Assistant Sheriff Jeff Puckett, Sheriff Don Barnes, Undersheriff Jeff Hallock, Executive Director Brian Wayt, Assistant Sheriff Ross Caouette and Assistant Sheriff Andy Stephens
mission statement The men and women of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department are dedicated to the protection of all we serve. We provide exceptional law enforcement services free from prejudice or favor, with leadership, integrity and respect. core values Integrity without compromise; Service above self; Professionalism in the performance of duty; Vigilance in safeguarding our community.
who we are 4,000 Sworn & Professional Staff 23 Divisions who we serve 3.2 million residents in Orange County 13 contract cities, unincorporated areas, John Wayne Airport, Orange County Courts, Orange County Transportation Authority, harbors, beaches, parks
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SHERIFF SERVICE AREAS
NORTH
Yorba Linda
Orange Park Acres
Anaheim
Stanton
Villa Park
Silverado Canyon
Rossmoor
North Tustin
Midway City
OCTA
Modjeska Canyon
Mile Square
Bolsa Chica
Trabuco Canyon
John Wayne Airport
Sunset Harbor
Lake Forest
Rancho Santa Margarita
Mission Viejo
Laguna Woods
Coto de Caza
Laguna Hills
Aliso Viejo
Las Flores
Wagon Wheel
Emerald Bay
Newport Harbor
Ortega Highway
SOUTH
Laguna Niguel
Ladera Ranch
San Juan Capistrano
Contract Cities Contract Partners
Dana Point
San Clemente
Unincorporated Areas
Dana Point Harbor
Connect with us… The Orange County Sheriff’s Department and its contract cities have a presence on social media. Find your city by using the search function on each social media platform.
@OCSHERIFF
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13
Cities contract for service with the OC Sheriff’s Department
1,876 Sworn Staff
1,657 Professional Staff
1,112 Female employees
2,421 Male employees
1,450 Employees speak more than one language 29
OC SHERIFF IS THE 6TH LARGEST SHERIFF’S
DEPARTMENT IN THE NATION
Languages represented
TOTAL ETHNICITY
Indian/Native American - 12 Pacific Islander - 23 Black - 110 Two or more ethnicities - 135 Asian - 445 Hispanic - 1289 White - 1537
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HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 21-22
Fighting illegal narcotics in Orange County
Protecting our community from the impact of the current drug epidemic takes a multi-dimensional, whole community approach. Fentanyl remains one of the biggest threats to the safety of our community, especially for our youth, and we continue to meet the challenge. Strong enforcement efforts focused on intercepting drugs before they make their way into our communities remain a focal point, but our prevention strategies – both in the classroom and with legislation – are also critical components of our efforts.
From January - June 2022, Above the Influence reached
1,202 students in
15 schools
T he OC Sheriff Community Engagement team this year launched a new drug education and prevention program, Above the Influence. The science-based, modern program is designed to establish a deep understanding of the dangers of substance use disorder and build confidence so students continue down a healthy life path free from drugs long after they have completed the program.
Pushing for change I n the legislature, the Sheriff’s Department continues to advocate for laws that would hold traffickers accountable and provide harsher penalties for those bringing narcotics into Orange County. At the federal level, Sheriff Barnes continues to push for laws that will provide increased enforcement and resources at California’s border and stop the flood of illicit narcotics into our communities.
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Putting dealers on notice I n FY21-22, the Sheriff’s Department began issuing a Deadly Drug Advisement to notify those who supply illegal substances resulting in an overdose death that they could face murder charges. The advisement specifically notifies arrestees on the dangers of the synthetic opioid fentanyl, which can cause death in very small doses, to give prosecutors evidence to potentially pursue additional charges.
OC Sheriff investigative teams confiscate narcotics, weapons, currency and illegally possessed prescription medication. Some of the substances they pulled off Orange County streets in FY 21-22 were: 385,777 fentanyl pills 43,770 illegally possessed prescription pills 5,892 ecstasy pills 2,351 pounds
of methamphetamine 412 pounds of fentanyl powder 348 pounds of cocaine
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* These analytics do not include additional narcotics seizures from patrol or regional task forces { 2mg = LETHAL DOSE 100 times more potent than morphine } Facts on FENTANYL
2 mg Fentanyl
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GROWING OUR COMMITMENT TO SAFE SCHOOLS For more than 20 years, the Sheriff’s Department has committed resources to ensuring the safety and security of Orange County’s schools through diverse programs that include mentorship, education and proactive policing. Staying contemporary in our approach, OC Sheriff’s Juvenile Services Bureau has expanded its programs in recent years to ensure Orange County’s schools feel supported and safe.
School Mobile Assessment and Resource Team T he School Mobile Assessment and Resource Team (SMART) is a multi-agency threat assessment team that responds to and investigates a variety of incidents including threats of school violence, suspicious activity or weapons on campus. Their evidence based approach to threat assessment aims to intervene, resolve conflict and prevent incidences of school violence. SMART expanded in 2020 to include two regional teams that serve schools in the Sheriff’s Department jurisdiction and in the cities of Anaheim, Garden Grove and Irvine. While their work is grounded in investigation, it extends to intervention and prevention. Through a partnership with the Orange County Health Care Agency, the team looks to identify resources for students and families experiencing crisis. In addition, the team provides critical training to school personnel to guide them on how to identify concerning behaviors and educate them on the investigative process. This multi-faceted approach to school safety ensures campuses remain secure and at-risk students receive the help they need.
For the 2021-22 fiscal year, SMART received 238 calls for service which included investigating threats of school violence,
suspicious activity or weapons on campus.
Multi-agency School Mobile Assessment and Resource Team
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School Resource Officers A uniformed presence on school campus does more than provide peace of mind for school personnel, students and their families. The Sheriff Department’s 17 School Resource Officers also serve as protectors, mentors and educators. Whether it’s reviewing school safety plans, responding to a critical incident on campus or listening to a struggling student, School Resource Officers are an integral support system for creating safe schools. “We are grateful for the partnership with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, and the role that School Resource Officers play on our campuses. Their dedication to keep our schools and communities safe and protected provides the ultimate comfort to our families. They are an invaluable resource and give our students additional support to rely on during the school day.”
– Kirsten M. Vital Brulte Superintendent for Capistrano Unified School District
17 OC Sheriff’s Dedicated
School Resource Officers
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OC Sheriff launches body-worn camera program
Trust and transparency remain tenets of our commitment to the community, and honoring that commitment served as a driving force for the launch of the body-worn camera program in 2021. The Sheriff’s Department deployed body-worn cameras to more than 1000 deputies and investigators serving 13 contract cities and Orange County’s unincorporated areas. Body-worn cameras have provided an opportunity to evaluate and improve tactics, strategies, training, safety practices and community policing objectives. They also promote accountability and enhance public trust by objectively capturing our contacts with the public. Transitioning to body-worn cameras gives the public we serve greater access to our day-to-day operations and provides an important perspective into the work we do.
contract cities & the county’s unincorporated areas deputies & investigators from 13 cameras launched for 1,000 +
Average number of videos uploaded by our deputies every month 19,310
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Behavioral Health Bureau – Creating a continuum of service W hile challenges mount in navigating effective policing strategies for those with mental health or substance use disorders, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department continues to innovate. By establishing an integrated model that incorporates proactive engagement and case management services both in the field and in the custody setting, we strive to create a continuum of service aimed at reducing recidivism and connecting individuals with resources they need. Balancing enforcement and public safety with advocacy and resource distribution, we partner with the Orange County Health Care Agency (HCA) to ensure we are meeting the needs of those we interact with in our community and in our jail facilities. In the field The Behavioral Health Bureau responds to calls for service and proactively patrols the community to identify people in need of resources. The team is trained in crisis intervention and is equipped to de-escalate and resolve high-stress scenarios involving individuals with mental health disorders. In the custody setting In FY21-22, the Sheriff’s Department upgraded inmate housing at the Intake Release Center as part of our comprehensive plan to meet the needs of those in our custody with mental health and substance use disorders. The project, which is part of Sheriff Barnes’ Mental Health Initiative, includes adding safety features and aesthetic upgrades that place greater emphasis on enhanced programming and care. The initiative is a partnership with HCA, nonprofits and community organizations to expand services and create an environment for those in the Orange County Jail system to have stability as they transition back to the community.
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YEAR IN REVIEW BY COMMAND – PATROL OPERATIONS Whether protecting communities, safeguarding local transit or patrolling Orange County’s coastline, Patrol Operations is committed to leading edge policing that combines evidence-based deployment strategies with proactive community engagement to keep our communities safe.
Serving more than 1.2 million residents, we provide law enforcement services for 13 contract cities, the county’s unincorporated areas, local harbors and 48 miles of coastline.
calls for service - FY 2021-2022 325,000 +
In addition, the Sheriff’s Department provides specialized security and law enforcement services for Orange County’s travel thoroughfares through partnerships with the Orange County Transportation Authority and John Wayne Airport.
North Operations
VILLA PARK • STANTON • YORBA LINDA • UNINCORPORATED
With an increased emphasis on community engagement, North Operations participated in more than 500 community events in the last fiscal year to continue building strong partnerships with those we serve. While proactively patrolling the streets and effectively investigating crime remains our primary mission, relationship building is an essential part of creating safer communities.
Why I Serve “What I love about serving in law enforcement is the diversity of individuals I meet on a daily basis.”
9,640 cases
— DEPUTY AMANDA CHAVEZ STANTON, PATROL
worked by general investigations department-wide
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Southeast Operations LAKE FOREST • MISSION VIEJO • RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA • UNINCORPORATED
assaulted an elderly couple. Investigators Bobby Blackburn and Al Laschober (pictured below) were honored for their work, which led to the arrest of the suspect. The suspect pleaded guilty and is currently in prison.
Southeast Operations approaches policing with patience, compassion and a dedication to service. Many personnel from Southeast were recognized in FY 21-22 for exemplary actions, including two investigators who committed many months to find the man who carjacked and
Southwest Operations ALISO VIEJO • DANA POINT • LAGUNA HILLS • LAGUNA NIGUEL • LAGUNA WOODS SAN CLEMENTE • SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO
44 Major Accident Reconstruction Team call outs department wide
From crime statistics to traffic collisions, teams across the Division studied relevant public safety information to better serve our community.
Southwest Operations provided elevated service by tapping in to research and trends. We incorporate Evidence-Based Policing, which uses historical evidence and statistics to effect deployment models, and help us proactively address and prevent safety issues.
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Transit Operations AIRPORT POLICE SERVICES • HARBOR PATROL BUREAU • TRANSIT POLICE SERVICES Serving our community … by land, sea and air.
Harbor Patrol Bureau Overseeing 48 miles of coastline and
specialized investigative operations. One specialty unit is our Community Oriented Policing (COP) team, which conducts proactive enforcement to contact riders who may be experiencing homelessness, connecting them with resources and improving their quality of life. Every year, COP contacts more than 1,000 people and offers services. Airport Police Services The Sheriff’s Department provides a multidisciplinary policing strategy for John Wayne Airport that includes security enhancements, proactive explosive and narcotics searches, dignitary protection and high-visibility patrols. We also place a great emphasis on connecting with our community while they travel in and out of JWA.
Orange County’s three harbors, the Harbor Patrol Bureau balances enforcement and education. With specialized training in marine firefighting, advanced medical aid and pollution investigations, we are focused on keeping boaters and visitors safe. Transit Police Services Bureau With 58 bus routes serving 34 cities, the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) sees more than 1 million passengers on their buses every week. We approach public safety on these routes and right of-ways with enforcement, outreach and
This fiscal year, the 3 Harbor Patrols saw
151 rescues
16 marine boat fires
7,500 + Airport Police Services calls for service
Did you know … OC Sheriff has a dive team that specializes in recovering evidence, hazardous device recognition, boating accident investigations, post-blast investigations and swift water rescues. In FY 21-22 the team had 19 call outs.
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Emergency Communications Bureau (ECB)
Calm, confident and capable: We stand ready to answer your call. W ith a team of 85 professional and sworn staff, the Emergency Communications Bureau is among the largest dispatch centers in California and the only county-wide interoperable radio communications center in the state. Dispatch Dispatchers and call takers serve as the vital link between the community and our deputies, quickly sending help to those who need it most. Fielding hundreds of calls every day, dispatchers and call takers stay committed to relaying critical information to field personnel while helping residents navigate an emergency until help arrives. Control One When we need to connect with other emergency service partners, the Emergency Radio Coordinators of Control One are our lifeline. It is the central point for all law, fire, public works, and lifeguard agencies, including our state and federal partners. When an incident crosses city or county lines, Control One helps us communicate so we can provide an effective, coordinated response.
325,000 + Total dispatch calls received 834 Text-to-911 messages received
Questions to expect when you call 9-1-1 :
Control One Calls - FY 21-22
8,911 calls after hours to OC agencies and missing persons calls
25,165 calls to assist with traffic stops and warrant checks
Help us serve you better by being prepared to share the following information when you call 9-1-1 WHERE: Share your exact address or cross streets, landmarks or businesses around you and be prepared to provide your callback number. WHAT: Explain the emergency type and be prepared to share details about what you saw. WHO: Provide a suspect’s name, if you know it, and share your involvement in the incident. Be prepared to offer descriptive details including hair color, height, clothing and any noticeable scars or tattoos. Also be ready to share any vehicle
66,821 total calls
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5,579 calls coordinating communication for pursuits, traffic advisories and Public Guardian after hours
27,166 calls patching between paramedics and hospitals; mass casualty incident coordination
description information including the color, model, any portion of the license plate and whether any damage was observed.
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INVESTIGATIONS AND SPECIAL OPERATIONS Any time, any day … ready to serve The Sheriff’s Department employs more than a dozen details that work tirelessly to solve crime, pursue justice, advocate for victims and protect the residents of Orange County. These teams specialize in a wide variety of disciplines from working undercover operations to interrupting narcotics trafficking to thwarting cyber criminals’ attempts to extort funds from unsuspecting victims. At the ready to respond any hour of the day, OC Sheriff investigators stay steadfast in their mission to create safer communities.
13,000 hours of investigation and surveillance resulting in 284 felony arrests by the GANG DETAIL 2,092 ECONOMIC CRIMES DETAIL cases $ 1.5 + million recovered in stolen crypto and US currency by the CYBER CRIMES DETAIL 760 SPECIAL VICTIMS DETAIL Cases 1,497 FAMILY PROTECTION DETAIL Cases
INVESTIGATOR OF THE YEAR: Christina Strunk P rior to promoting to sergeant, Christina Strunk was assigned to the Special Investigations Bureau where she worked on a team that proactively pursued suspects who groomed and recruited human trafficking victims. Her undercover work on that team in 2021 led to the arrest of a suspect who admitted to targeting underage victims for prostitution. The suspect was taken into custody and charged with five felonies. Since its formation in 2018, the Human Trafficking Task Force has made 32 arrests, accounting for 100 felony charges filed.
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The Coroner Division W hile death investigations remain the primary service of the Coroner Division, they also play an integral role in developing programs and outreach efforts to enhance the wellbeing of our community. By identifying and studying various causes of death, including drug overdoses and drownings, the Coroner Division helps shape community education efforts to implement effective prevention strategies.
Why I Serve I get to come in and work with people who are excited about the same things that I am, and who have a wealth of knowledge for me to learn from. I love using deductive reasoning to try to figure out what may have happened and I believe that directly relates to serving the community. I receive and process evidence that has a story, and it is my job to figure out what that may be and how it may relate to other
The Crime Lab serves as a translator for evidence and sharing what it means.
Orange County Crime Lab recognized as leader in forensic science I n FY21-22, the Orange County Crime Laboratory was nationally recognized as an early registry adopter of the Organization of Scientific Area Committees (OSAC) standards. OSAC, which is administered by the National Institute of Standards and Technology, is known for its high-quality standards and practices in forensic science. This recognition acknowledged the hard work of Crime Lab personnel to meet the rigorous national standards that cover a broad spectrum of forensic disciplines including Chemistry, Crime Scene Investigation, DNA, Firearms, Seized Drugs, Footwear & Tire Impression, Friction Ridge, and Trace Evidence. Out of more than 400 labs across the nation, the OC Crime Lab is one of roughly 70 that met the demanding criteria to achieve this status.
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cases that have unfolded throughout the community. — MICHAEL K. HUMPHREYS FORENSIC SCIENTIST, CRIME LAB
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SWAT • HAZARDOUS DEVICES SECTION • TACTICAL APPREHENSION TEAM • CRISIS NEGOTIATIONS TEAM • K9 UNIT • MUTUAL-AID BUREAU • AIR SUPPORT BUREAU • MOUNTED UNIT • RESERVES Special Operations Division
The Special Operations Division serves to support the Sheriff’s Department with highly trained personnel who specialize in safely resolving unique problems.
Crisis Negotiation responses 41
K9 Unit Deployments 564
Bomb Squad Responses 532
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FY 2021-2022 52
SWAT call outs
Why I Serve “I chose a career in law enforcement because I was helped by a police officer during a medical emergency when I was a young child. That moment stuck with me throughout growing up and made me realize at a young age I wanted to help others just like the police officer that helped me.”
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—DEPUTY ELTON RICKETTS OC SHERIFF, SWAT
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Emergency Management Division Being prepared starts with a good plan
IN FISCAL YEAR 2021-2022 The EOC activated to respond to
T he Orange County Sheriff’s Emergency Management Division focuses on ensuring Orange County is equipped to respond to any large-scale incident from fires to floods to global pandemics. The foundation of our response lies in up-to-date planning documents and ready-to-respond personnel, and in FY21-22 Emergency Management successfully updated several of its operational plans and conducted training opportunities across jurisdictions.
COVID pandemic
Oil spill
Wild fires
ALERT OC • Sign up. Be informed. AlertOC is a mass notification system designed to keep Orange County residents and businesses informed of emergencies that may require immediate, life-saving actions. By registering with AlertOC, time-sensitive voice messages may be sent to your
Tsunami
home, cell, or business phone. Users can also sign up for text messages or email alerts. To learn more and sign up, scan the QR code.
Debris flows
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The Counter-Terrorism Bureau Effective collaboration is the keystone of the Counter-Terrorism Bureau (CTB), which serves to analyze, prevent and investigate a variety of threats that may affect our community. OCIAC The Orange County Intelligence Assessment Center (OCIAC) is a nationally renowned Fusion Center dedicated to gathering, vetting and distributing information on potential threats and criminal activity. As the only single-county Fusion Center in the country, OCIAC partners with local, state and federal agencies, as well as private partners such as businesses and places of worship, to promote robust information-sharing practices to help investigators effectively analyze and assess all-threats information. OCIAC is proactive in conducting physical threat assessments and critical incident training for public and private entities to ensure they can prevent or mitigate any potential hazards. JTTF The Orange County Joint Terrorism Task Force (OC JTTF) is a partnership with the Federal Bureau of Investigations to prevent, investigate and effectively and efficiently respond to a potential terrorist threat.
If you SEE something, SAY something Being aware of our surroundings and reporting suspicious behavior to law enforcement is key to keeping our community safe. What do I look for? Trust your gut. Suspicious activity can happen in person or online. It could include: •Any explicit or implied threat of harm •Mobilization to violence, engaging in preparation and planning for an attack or for travel to join like-minded violent extremists •Seeking or claiming religious, political, or ideological justification or validation for a planned violent act •Someone taking pictures or videos for prolonged periods of time in an unusual manner •Unauthorized individuals trying to enter a restricted area How do I report it? Download the SafeOC app for one-touch, easy reporting. Call the Sheriff’s nonemergency line 714-647-7000 or 949-770-6011 or, if it is a life-threatening emergency, call 9-1-1. OC Sheriff’s dispatch will send all relevant tips and leads to OCIAC. To learn more, scan the QR code.
tips and leads benefitting National Security 847 In Fiscal Year 2021-22, OCIAC analyzed
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CUSTODY OPERATIONS
Providing for the care and custody of up to 6,000 inmates in our facilities is the primary mission of the OC Sheriff Custody Operations Command. Although COVID-19 presented adversity for jail facilities across the nation, the Sheriff’s Department established itself a leader in protecting the health and safety of those entrusted to our care by implementing practices to reduce transmission rates among inmates and personnel. In addition to safety, we also expanded services to inmates with mental health or substance use disorders, reinstated interactive programs credited with reducing recidivism and instituted new training opportunities for personnel.
Intake Release Center (IRC) and Transportation T he Intake Release Center is the hub of the Orange County Jail System, managing the booking and release of all inmates and providing inmate transportation services for court hearings and medical appointments. The IRC also is specifically designed to treat those who have serious mental health or substance use disorders. A major renovation is underway to expand mental health housing which, when complete, will triple the housing capacity for inmates with the most acute mental health needs. Through a partnership with the Orange County Health Care Agency, we are creating a housing model that is conducive to treatment and reduces the risk of suicide.
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Theo Lacy Facility
T he Theo Lacy Facility is tasked with implementing unique and innovative programs that mitigate recidivism and prepare those in our custody for post-release life. In addition to offering educational opportunities and vocational training, the Inmate Services Division has introduced programs that place reintegration and rehabilitation as a top priority. Cell Dogs After a two-year hiatus, Cell Dogs was reinstated. The program, a partnership with the nonprofit Pathways to Hope, teaches valuable life skills that assist with re-integration and provides the in-custody therapeutic benefits of caring for a canine. Seventeen inmates participated in the program in FY 21-22 and eight dogs were placed in forever homes. Transitional Age Youth (TAY) The TAY program is a partnership with the University of California, Irvine to provide important life skills courses for inmates ages 18-25 who have been identified as high-risk to re-offend. The intensive program teaches valuable social and problem-solving skills and equips inmates with the tools they need to establish healthy support systems while in custody and post-release. Housing Unit For Military Veterans (HUMV) HUMV is a dedicated module for inmates who have served in the military. In 2021, inmates assigned to the unit helped establish the Emotional Freedom group – a peer-driven mental growth group that focuses on emotions and behaviors.
Why I Serve “After 21 years of military service I still had a desire to serve my country and community. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department made it an easy transition by utilizing my skills that the military provided me to help the community I still serve today.” — JOHN BARNES, CHIEF COOK THEO LACY FACILITY
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Central Jail Division I n FY 21-22, the Central Men’s Jail facility, originally constructed in 1968, received extensive upgrades, improving morale for those in our custody and our personnel. The project included upgraded electrical and data infrastructure, new lighting and camera systems, and cosmetic updates. This year, personnel also focused on employee development by instituting an ongoing training program for custody deputies. The 52-week program was developed by personnel from all three jail facilities, and topics include use of force, handling people in crisis and de escalation techniques. This ensures custody personnel are up-to-date on the best and latest law enforcement practices and helps them prepare to transition to patrol.
3,483 39,000 bookings for FY 21-22 More than average daily inmate population
Mental health cases managed by the Behavioral Health Bureau every month on average
1,500
Nearly 2,600 cases investigated by the Custody Intelligence Unit for all OC Jails
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CGI rendering
James A. Musick Facility
L ong called “the Farm” for its historic roots in agriculture, the James A. Musick Facility will realize a new legacy with the construction of an 896-bed, state-of-the art facility designed to meet the needs of an evolving jail population. With a greater emphasis on treatment and rehabilitation, the $330 million project will include direct-supervision housing and contemporary medical and programming facilities. The new James A. Musick Facility, projected to open in summer 2023, will be a critical component of Orange County’s public safety infrastructure and an important step in the modernization of our correctional system.
JMF circa 1970
CGI rendering
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CGI rendering
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ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
Administrative Services is a crucial component of delivering law enforcement services to our community. From procuring essential equipment to managing IT infrastructure, we provide the tools necessary to make operations run. Looking ahead at Technology T he OC Sheriff Technology Division is leading a digital transformation across the county. The cornerstone of this effort involves the design and construction of a new state-of-the art Technology Center, bringing new technologies and key resources together under one roof. This new environment will provide innovative solutions for first responders and the citizens of Orange County. Part of this project includes Orange County’s first Real-Time Operations Center, which will serve as a critical resource to support departmental and regional operations, and bolster crime prevention efforts using cutting-edge solutions.
Hi-Lo Siren The Research and Development Division is equipping all Sheriff’s patrol units with a new hi-lo siren, which produces a distinct sound that will be used when a mandatory evacuation order is in place during a fire, flood or other emergency. Want to learn more and hear what it sounds like? Scan the QR code.
Rendering of the Real-Time Operations Center
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Research & Development
T he Research & Development team serves as the foundation for supporting the Department’s operational needs, which include building and maintaining our facilities, providing uniforms and vital equipment, and tending to our fleet of vehicles. Their dedication and expertise is what helps the Sheriff’s Department run smoothly. The OC Sheriff R&D Division manages the multi-million dollar James A. Musick project – the largest construction endeavor since the 2006 expansion of the Theo Lacy Facility. From day-to-day construction operations to ensuring the work meets quality standards, the R&D team professionally and effectively navigates the building process. 1,143 158 OC Sheriff
Why I Serve “I love being able to bring a
project to life and see it out to its completion. Knowing that I made a difference to help an OC Sheriff facility operate more efficiently and carry out day-to-day operations more effectively fills me with great pride in what I do. I chose a career in law enforcement to be able to make a difference in this community.” — GENE SEDDON, R&D
fleet vehicles maintained 61
facilities serviced
construction projects managed
CGI rendering
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Financial/Administrative Division T his team provides administrative, financial and law enforcement contract services that are essential to provide high-quality service to our community. Through responsible fiscal planning, we ensure every division in the department has the tools they need.
650 Contracts managed More than
FY 2021-22 Sheriff-Coroner Budget (by Command)
Sheriff’s Administration $3.0M
Professional Services $148.4M
Administrative Services $448.3M
Why I Serve What I enjoy most when working with the Orange County community is the sense of hope that I am able to provide during one of their most difficult times. Providing the community information and resources to navigate processes including handling inmate commissary deposits, booking fees or release of funds often leaves them more hopeful that they can get through their current situation. — LATISHA ABNEY ADMINISTRATIVE MANAGER FINANCIAL SERVICES
Patrol Operations $238.5M
$ 1 . 3 billion budget
Investigations & Special Operations $178.9M
Custody & Inmate Services $285.5M
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PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
F rom the academy recruit to the 20-year department veteran, training remains a cornerstone of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. We work to build new skill sets, refine established ones and expand our knowledge. At the Orange County Sheriff’s Regional Training Academy, we continue to develop and modernize our cultural diversity training. Each graduating class participates in field trips to the Second Baptist Church of Santa Ana, Sikh Center of Orange County, Orange County Islamic Foundation in Mission Viejo, the Congregation of Shir Ha-Ma’alot, and the Orange County Rescue Mission. This provides meaningful perspective on the community the recruits will serve upon completing the Basic Academy. Continuing to gain perspective about our community is a value carried on long after the academy. This is exemplified in our required Crisis Intervention Training, which equips deputies with tools to handle crisis situations involving those with mental health disorders or developmental disabilities. By gauging the needs of the community we serve, the Sheriff’s Department remains a leader in balancing essential law enforcement training with important communication and analytical skills to ensure our deputies serve with expertise, professionalism, confidence and compassion. Whether securing Orange County’s courtrooms, training the next generation of peace officers, or ensuring our department stays on the leading edge of policing practices, we commit to a standard of excellence. Training Division The Professional Services Command includes five divisions that while varied in their individual operations, remain unified in their overarching mission: proficiency and expertise in the performance of duty.
265 Number of recruits graduated 28 Number of SoCal agencies represented by recruits at the academy 23,145 Hours of Critical Incident Training
annual report fiscal year 2021-2022
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OC Courts go virtual
T he COVID-19 pandemic challenged our community as a whole and the OC Sheriff Court Operations Division was no exception. To best protect the health and safety of the inmates entrusted to our care, Court Operations partnered with the Orange County Superior Court to launch the Video Court Unit.
The team of 26 deputies deployed in the jails with mobile devices, allowing inmates to attend judicial hearings virtually and reduce the spread of COVID-19. In fiscal year 2021-22, 48,374 judicial hearings were conducted virtually. The collaboration between the Superior Court and its partners made this unit a success.
Why I Serve “I attended CSULB and majored in Criminal Justice. I always knew I wanted a position in law enforcement. The main reason I took a position with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department was to give my life meaning and purpose serving and protecting people on what could be the worse day of their lives, especially in the behavioral health courtroom. Those skills in the court system have made my job very rewarding and why I’ve been with the courts as an SSO for almost 28 years.” —CHRIS COUNTS, SSO SANTA ANA COURTHOUSE
Civil processes at the click of a button The Sheriff’s Department is excited to announce a new e-file system for civil processes. Starting in early 2023, residents will be able to file their documents and pay fees for numerous civil actions online.
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3 Completed critical incident reviews 22 Updated policies
Keeping you SAFE P rotecting the community extends beyond the work our personnel do from their patrol units. Ensuring our policies and procedures reflect law enforcement best practices helps us keep our employees and community safe. The SAFE Division (Strategy. Accountability. Focus. Evaluation.) is responsible for the continuous assessment and enhancement of department policy, review of critical incidents and the internal audit of department practices. Through actionable statistics, SAFE helps the Sheriff’s Department provide high-quality and transparent service to our community.
A leader in incident-based reporting T he OC Sheriff Records Division and Technology Division oversaw the implementation of a new reporting system that provides a more in-depth understanding of crime in our county. The Federal Bureau of Investigations, which tracks crime statistics nationwide, switched to an incident-based reporting system, which requires all law enforcement agencies in the nation to change the way they fill out and categorize their reports. The Sheriff’s Department was one of the first agencies in the state to transition to this new system and report updated statistics to the FBI. Thanks to the dedication and expertise of the Records Division and Technology Division, deputies and investigators quickly transitioned to this new reporting system, which gives our agency and the community we serve a more complete picture of crime impacting our community. We can use this information to help drive operational strategy, resource deployment and crime prevention efforts.
Serving with Professionalism H iring personnel with a love for serving the community and a commitment to excellence remains a focus of the Professional Standards Division . Tasked with recruiting personnel, conducting a thorough background process and Human Resources support, we take pride in upholding high employment and performance standards so our community can trust that we deliver the best in policing services.
Twelve personnel from Professional Standards are responsible for handling Orange County’s Concealed Carry Weapons permitting process.
annual report fiscal year 2021-2022
Fiscal year 21-22, the unit received 4,021 new CCW applications 6,593 renewal CCW applications
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COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
Trust between the Orange County Sheriff’s Department and the people we protect and serve is key to the stability of our community and to the safe and effective delivery of policing services. Sheriff Barnes and department personnel actively collaborate with diverse community groups and faith leaders throughout Orange County to establish opportunities for open, honest dialogue as a means to foster mutual respect and understanding. Sheriff’s personnel also volunteer their time with local charities benefitting children and families.
Community Testimonials The OC Sheriff’s Department has made a real commitment to community partnerships that has and will continue to unite our diverse community. I have personally participated in the African American Advisory Council and provided training to new recruits on the importance of interacting with all people with dignity and respect. Though we have a long road ahead, I am pleased with the progress and the attitudes as we work to make this a more perfect union.
– Pastor Ivan Pitts , OC Sheriff’s African American Advisory Council
Pastor Ivan Pitts
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I am continually in awe how Sheriff Barnes is able to bring together people of very diverse backgrounds to discuss and address issues that affect us all. The Sheriff’s Interfaith Advisory Council has addressed everything from drugs to homelessness, from mental health to church security, from human trafficking to wrestling with the great issues that law enforcement faces every day. But even more than these subjects, Sheriff Barnes has created an atmosphere in which we can and do develop deep and meaningful relationships in times of calm, so that in times of challenge we can all come together with the relationships already established. I am very proud to be part of the Sheriff’s Interfaith Advisory Council. – Rabbi Richard Steinberg , OC Sheriff’s Interfaith Advisory Council The Sheriff’s Department has been a truly tremendous community partner through their Six Points for Kids program. Personnel have shown up year after year for Miracles for Kids - volunteering their time and donating toys. Their impact shows on our families’ faces when they receive these gifts and have comfort packages hand-delivered to their door. I feel fortunate to be able to work alongside such caring and generous people who keep giving back to their community. – Sapphira Roberson , Miracles For Kids
annual report fiscal year 2021-2022
Community Partnerships Want to learn more? Scan the QR code and click the navigation menu.
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OC Sheriff’s Advisory Council T he Orange County Sheriff’s Advisory Council was formed in 1979 as a nonprofit to support local law enforcement. This generous group of community members provides vital assistance through funding much-needed items that may not be available otherwise, allowing us to better serve you. The OC Sheriff’s Advisory Council (OCSAC) built and maintains the Orange County Peace Officer’s Memorial in Tustin, paying tribute to the 53 deputies and officers who have given their lives in service to Orange County residents. Each year, OCSAC also hosts the Medal of Valor luncheon to honor extraordinary actions of Department personnel. In FY 21-22, OCSAC donated bullet-proof vests and canines to the Department for the benefit of our community. They also fund Project 999, providing financial assistance to the families of officers killed in the line of duty. This year, they generously donated funds to assist the Huntington Beach Police Department after their loss of Officer Nicholas Vella. A long-standing program of OCSAC is Drug Use is Life Abuse (DUILA), dedicated to educating school-aged students about the dangers of drug use. Every year, DUILA provides red ribbon wristbands for every school-aged child in the county, reminding them to stay drug free.
For more information, visit www.ocsheriffsadvisorycouncil.org or call 714-647-4135.
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dogs purchased for the
OC Sheriff’s Department
Red Ribbon wristbands distributed for Drug Free Week 569,700
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COMMUNITY SERVICES
We believe in partnering with residents to create safer communities. The Sheriff’s Department offers many programs and services to give our community important tools you need to protect your family, property and neighborhood.
Take me Home T ake Me Home is designed to assist in the timely reunification of loved ones who may become displaced from their homes. The program provides crucial information to law enforcement about the registered person even before we arrive at their residence. Individuals with autism, dementia, Alzheimer’s Disease and Down Syndrome are examples of members of our community who might benefit from this registry. By registering your loved one for Take Me Home, you can provide law enforcement with critical information including emergency contact information, detailed physical descriptions and photographs. An
individual’s communication abilities, routines, behaviors and other helpful information also may be entered to assist law enforcement.
Register your loved one by scanning the code.
Community Presentations T he OC Sheriff Community Engagement team provides free presentations on a variety of important public safety topics for our community, including drug prevention education and critical incident preparedness. For more information, please contact Communityengagement@ocsheriff.gov or call (714) 647-4133.
Stay Safe OC W e created Stay Safe OC to serve as a resource library of important tips, tools and information for you to take steps to become co-producers of your own safety. Offered in multiple languages and covering many topics, Stay Safe OC addresses public safety issues from preventing property crime to instilling safe cyber practices in your children.
annual report fiscal year 2021-2022
To learn more and access printable resources, scan the QR code.
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