OCSD AR 2023-24

INNOVATE • COLLABORATE • SERVE

ANNUAL REPORT 2023 2024

ANNUAL REPORT 2023 2024

TABLE OF CONTENTS

About Us......................................................................6 Message from Sheriff Barnes.....................................6 Sheriff Service Areas...................................................7 By the Numbers.........................................................10 Innovate......................................................................12 OC Sheriff Technology Center..........................13 Technology Division: Celebrating 90 Years.....14 Women in Technology......................................16 New Firearms Training Center..........................20 VR Training in the Jails.......................................28 Collaborate................................................................ 24 Partnering with HCA..........................................24 Citizen’s Academy.............................................26 Teen Academy...................................................27 Serve.......................................................................... 24 Patrol................................................................... 28 Trabuco Canyon: Remembering the Victims....30 Custody Operations..........................................32 Financial..................................................................... 35 Recruiting. .................................................................. 36 Join the Sheriff’s Department............................37

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613,847 CALLS FOR SERVICE

10,404 CORONER CASES

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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

407+ Volunteers

24 Divisions

Who We Serve 3.3 million residents in Orange County 13 contract cities, unincorporated areas, John Wayne Airport, Orange County Courts, Orange County Transportation Authority, harbors, beaches, parks

Vision Statement

A community where every person feels safe and valued.

ABOUT US

Thank you for taking the time to read our Orange County Sheriff’s Department 2023-2024 annual report. The theme of our report this year is “Innovate, Collaborate, Serve.” Whether providing patrol services in our contract cities and unincorporated county areas, or ensuring the safety and security of those entrusted to our care within our jails, these three tenants are woven into every aspect of the ways we serve. This annual report highlights programs and best practices tied to these primary responsibilities.

It is our privilege to serve you,

From left to right: Assistant Sheriff Jeff Puckett, Constitutional Policing Advisor Mary Izadi, Assistant Sheriff Andy Stephens, Assistant Sheriff John McCulloch, Sheriff Don Barnes, Undersheriff Jeff Hallock, Assistant Sheriff Cory Martino, Executive Director Brian Wayt

Sheriff Don Barnes

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OC SHERIFF’S 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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4,997 HOURS PATROLLED ON OCTA BUSES

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We strive for excellence in the service we provide and the relationships we build with our community. In FY ‘23-‘24, we enhanced community safety through innovative policing, strong partnerships, tenacious investigative work and community engagement. In the pages of this report, we highlight exceptional work throughout the year that reflects our commitment to creating a safe place for our community.

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16,325 DNA EVIDENCE SAMPLES ANALYZED BY THE CRIME LAB

238 K9 PATROL DEPLOYMENTS

5 JUVENILES RESCUED BY THE VICE AND HUMAN TRAFFICKING TEAM

999 VEHICLES IN THE OC SHERIFF FLEET

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31,387 HOURS VOLUNTEERED BY RESERVES, EXPLORERS, PSRS & CHAPLAINS WITH A COST SAVING OF $ 3 MILLION

255 RECRUITS FROM 6 ACADEMY CLASSES

167 CYBER CRIMES INVESTIGATED ($890,635 recovered)

PROVIDE SECURITY FOR 78 COURTROOMS

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INNOVATE

With the rapid development of technology, it is essential to stay ahead to effectively prevent, detect and respond to crime. OC Sheriff is leading the way in innovation with significant changes to our technology, training, custody and emergency communications this fiscal year. Innovation goes beyond implementing new technologies. It fosters trust between our Department and our community in the solutions-focused way we approach issues that impact you the most. By continuously evolving and adopting cutting-edge solutions, we can better protect and serve Orange County.

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OC SHERIFF OPENS NEW TECHNOLOGY CENTER

The RTOC utilizes a variety of technology including community

cameras, body-worn cameras and in car cameras. By accessing these video feeds in real time, we can provide critical information to responding deputies in the field during a developing incident. What could some times take weeks or months during an investigation, can now happen in minutes. CONNECTED TO THE COMMUNITY As part of the RTOC, the Department uses Fusus, a cloud-based program that allows deputies to view community cameras to improve operational efficiency. Cities, organizations and businesses can give the Sheriff’s Department permission to view their cameras in specific circumstances so that we may provide a more efficient and effective law enforcement response during an active incident.

This year marked the beginning of an exciting new era as we opened the doors to the state-of-the art OC Sheriff’s Technology Center, which brought three divisions to one location for enhanced operational efficiency and effectiveness. The OC Sheriff’s Technology Center is a leading-edge facility that addresses a variety of incidents by combining real-time crime analysis with public safety resources, such as emergency communications, federal partners and technology. In everything we do, innovation is a critical component in how we serve our community. The Sheriff’s Department continues to invest in the people and technology that will keep us on the forefront of providing exceptional service. REAL TIME OPERATIONS CENTER Accessing public safety information in real time is set to be a game changer for policing in Orange County. At the Sheriff’s Department, we have seen multiple success stories resulting in quick arrests thanks to the virtual assistance of the Real Time Operations Center (RTOC).

Local business or organizations interested in learning more about Fusus can visit ocsheriff.gov/ connect.

24,160 RADIOS MAINTAINED

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TECHNOLOGY DIVISION Celebrates 90 Years KEY MOMENTS IN ORANGE COUNTY COMMUNICATIONS HISTORY:

KGHX “Christmas card” from 1934

UHF Eight-Channel Law Enforcement radio, circa 1973

1988 – The 800 MHz Fire Radio System is implemented for County Fire and all city Fire Departments, bringing new capabilities for the Fire Service community

1937 – The first “two-way” radio was introduced, providing field personnel the ability to transmit messages back to a dispatcher

1934

1973

1937

1988

1934 – Radio Station KGHX is placed on the air, transmitting “one-way” messages from the second floor of the Sheriff’s Office and Jail on Sycamore Street to public safety agencies

1973 – The UHF Law Enforcement Radio System is implemented for the Sheriff and all city Police Departments, bringing new capabilities for the law enforcement community

County of Orange GSA - Communications Division

Control One, circa 1960s

Communications employees, 1963

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T he Technology Division is celebrating 90 years of service to Orange County and its 34 incorporated cities. In 1934, five Orange County employees were hired and started what would soon become the premiere public safety communications department in the nation. As the county grew, so did the Radio Department, as they were originally known, which reported directly to the Board of Supervisors.

Over the next 90 years, the department introduced radio systems and technology that focused on exceptional dispatcher and first responder communications capabilities. Orange County is nationally recognized as a leader in public safety communications, only possible through the efforts of those early employees who worked here, and for those who continue their excellence today.

2023 – The Technology Division moves into a new state-of-the-art facility in Tustin

1993

2019

1999

2023

2019 – The 800 MHz CCCS is upgraded to P25 technology and all FCC required rebanding is completed

1993 – A new facility is built on Loma Ridge that includes radio system technical equipment, Control One, and the new County Emergency Operations Center. Sheriff’s Dispatch would later move to this location.

1999 – The largest interoperable radio system in the nation, at the time, is implemented for every Orange County Law, Fire, EMS, Lifeguard, and Public Works department (known as the 800 MHz Countywide Coordinated Communications System, or 800 MHz CCCS)

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Women in Technology INNOVATE Technology supports every aspect of the services we provide to the community. From patrol, to investigations to emergency management, we rely on our technology teams to help us stay efficient, effective and reliable.

with a variety of backgrounds and expertise to ensure we can meet the dynamic needs of our community. Meet some of the women behind the scenes who work hard every day to carry out the mission of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.

The Technology Division is diverse, employing personnel

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ADRIANA SPIRESCU SUPERVISOR COMMUNICATIONS TECH Team: Radio & Microwave Unit (RMU) BACKGROUND: B.S. in Manufacturing Engineering Adriana oversees the RMU, which is responsible for managing and maintaining radio infrastructure for all police, fire, paramedics, lifeguards and public works personnel in Orange County. The RMU’s work is critical for ensuring seamless communication for the county’s first responders so they can respond quickly and efficiently to those in our county who need it most.

MEENAL GORE IT SUPERVISOR Team: Business Relations Unit BACKGROUND: M.S. in Computer Management

Meenal leads the Business Relations Unit as a project manager and is responsible for communicating and collaborating with various stakeholders, including vendors and community groups. She cites effective communication as a critical component of her role, helping align efforts, share information and collaborate on various IT projects to enhance public safety. She also oversees the tracking of resources for various safety projects, including personnel, equipment and funding. Meenal, who developed an interest in computers and technology from a young age, likens her role to that of an orchestra conductor; when everyone on the team knows how to play their instrument, she ensures they play harmoniously together. FAVORITE PART OF THE JOB:

“I work with diverse teams with various skill sets, which provides an opportunity to collaborate and integrate their efforts, fostering strong teamwork. Public safety projects often involve unique challenges, and I enjoy taking complex problems and finding effective ways to address them. Working on the public safety projects give me the opportunity to make positive impacts.”

FAVORITE PART OF THE JOB:

“Being responsible for the 33 remote sites across Orange County, from Seal Beach in the north to Dana Point in the south, and even the mountaintops of Santiago Peak, is incredibly rewarding. One of the coolest parts is traveling across the county’s diverse terrain and off-roading on the mountain tops. I enjoy the dynamic nature of the job. I’m fortunate to work with a fantastic team of technicians and engineers. I truly enjoy coming to work and being part of such an exceptional team.”

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KRYSTIN KOWALSKI-AVALOS SR. IT SECURITY ADMINISTRATOR Team: Security Unit BACKGROUND: MBA and M.S. in Computer Information Systems with a cybersecurity concentration Krystin works in cybersecurity, ensuring the integrity of the Sheriff’s Department’s network, which serve as backbone of department operations. Her team is one of three infrastructure teams that work to protect against cyber threats, maintain robust network defenses and ensure public safety systems remain operational and secure. She started with the Sheriff’s Department as in intern and worked her way up the ranks starting at the help desk, then working for a stint in IT with the Orange County District Attorney’s Office before returning to the Sheriff’s Department. In 2022, she successfully designed and deployed the network infrastructure for the department body-worn camera program in just nine months. FAVORITE PART OF THE JOB:

TERESA ROACH TECHNICAL SYSTEMS ANALYST Team: Business Solutions Unit BACKGROUND: B.S. in Business Administration Teresa is responsible for interacting with various stakeholders to support the computer application systems of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, which are extensive and complex. She continually audits existing applications and researches emerging technologies to enhance and improve service to our community.

From monitoring calls for service, to inputting a report or collecting crime statistics, there’s an app for that … and Teresa helps maintain it. FAVORITE PART OF THE JOB:

“I knew I wanted to be in Cybersecurity from the time I graduated from high school in 2013. The Cybersecurity field allowed me to combine multiple interests such as history, identifying trends, conducting analysis, and problem solving. In addition, this field requires that you be constantly improving your skill sets and staying abreast with the changing technology and threat landscape.”

“By helping the many sworn and professional staff employees of the department, my job contributes to the essential services that protect our community and support public safety. I enjoy the everyday challenges and issues that arise from supporting users, co-workers and the applications I support on a daily basis.”

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LAC HOA HO IT SUPERVISOR Team: Business Solutions Unit BACKGROUND: B.S. in Computer Information Systems

ERIN BUSTILLOS STOREKEEPER II Team: Customer Services Warehouse BACKGROUND: B.A. in Visual Merchandising As the warehouse manager of a 5,000 square-foot facility, Erin oversees a wide-range of technology parts, from small items like radio batteries and antennas to larger equipment like computers, printers, network gear and Radio Microwave equipment. She supervises a team that manages all technology-related purchases, ensuring department members have what they need to do their jobs. Her team also handles more than

Lac works on the team responsible for building and maintaining a variety of applications that support the Sheriff’s Department. This includes WebEOC for emergency management communications, Coroner record management, IT help desk applications, jail housing and classification applications, and financial services applications, among others. The team collaborates effectively to continuously strive to be leaders in technology. With innovation a primary goal, the Business Solutions Unit favors forward-thinking solutions to traditional methods. The team leads the way in learning and applying AI technology, cloud-based solutions, mobile-first approaches and Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions. Lac and her team work diligently on the various applications that provide critical support for public safety services in our community. They are committed to making the work of those on the front lines of our agency safer and more effective. FAVORITE PART OF THE JOB:

300 contracts and manages thousands of county assets that require tracking, maintenance and inventory. By working together and staying organized, Erin and her team ensure all technological equipment is ready and available. The Customer Services Warehouse maintains smooth operation of all technology related functions within the department, directly contributing to the efficiency and effectiveness of our public safety services. FAVORITE PART OF THE JOB: “I enjoy my job for many reasons, but what makes it especially fun is the opportunity to interact with our technicians and be a part of everything they do. Often, different groups can work in isolation of each other, but in my role, I get to engage with every team and almost every project. This hands-on involvement allows me to break down silos and contribute to the success of the entire department, making my work both rewarding and dynamic.”

“I enjoy my work because it is meaningful. I help make the residents of Orange County safer. Additionally, I have a great team, from the leaders above me to those who work side by side with me every day. The fun we have together and the support we give each other is invaluable. They bring their expertise and show up every day with love, care and support for one another.”

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INNOVATE

Keeping Law Enforcement Training on the Leading-Edge In February 2024, the Department re-opened the newly revamped Firearms Training Center, which provides safer and more effective training for Orange County’s law enforcement officers. The Firearms Training Center at the Sandra Hutchens Regional Law Enforcement Training Center, has the only 50-yard indoor shooting range in the county dedicated to law enforcement with features that simulate real world scenarios and incorporate de-escalation techniques. Features include adjustable lighting and targets, a 90-degree bullet trap for enhanced scenario-based training, doors that allow multiple law enforcement vehicles to park inside for training and a premier HEPA air filtration system to trap contaminants. The Sandra Hutchens Regional Law Enforcement Training Center is a state-of the-art facility for advanced officer training that also includes a mock town for tactical training, an interactive force-option training system, classroom space and a tactical firearms range for OC Sheriff special operations teams, such as the SWAT team.

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HOW I SERVE

Sergeant Mike Padilla joined the Sheriff’s Department nearly 25 years ago and first served as a Sheriff’s Special Officer before becoming a deputy. He earned a position as a motor officer and eventually began working as an instructor. It was then that Sergeant Padilla found a love for training and dedicated his time to help peace officers expand existing skill sets and build new ones. In February 2023, Sergeant Padilla was assigned as the Firearms Training Unit (FTU) Sergeant where he led the redesign of the Firearms Training Center. “The FTU’s mission is to deliver the best firearms equipment and training possible to sworn members of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. The FTU is dedicated and prepared to work alongside anyone seeking to achieve a higher level of personal performance through dynamic training and obtainable goals. This is a dream job and I’m truly blessed to work with such hardworking and dedicated staff members.” Sergeant Padilla said the key to effective training is teaching with humility and never settling into a routine. Making training engaging, motivating and challenging keeps our personnel prepared to serve. “At the end of the day, we are only as strong as our training program. I’ve learned my sole purpose as a Field Training Officer, Firearms Instructor, coach or mentor is to have those influenced by my experiences and teaching surpass me in every way possible. I can’t think of a greater compliment than to watch those I helped surpass me.”

30 MASTER FIELD TRAINING OFFICERS

– Sergeant Mike Padilla

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INNOVATE VR Training in the Jails

OC Jails embrace virtual learning Engaging those entrusted to our care in custody to build applicable life skills and reduce recidivism remains the priority for OC Sheriff’s Inmate Programs.

This fiscal year, the Sheriff’s Department expanded its virtual reality (VR) program, Transfr , to include participants from the Women’s Jail.

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T he virtual reality program trains in a variety of vocations and trades, including construction, hospitality, health sciences, automotive services and aviation, among other industries. In partnership with Orange County Community Resources (OCCR), the Sheriff’s Department began the 11 week program in 2022 at the Theo Lacy Facility, setting a goal to give individuals in custody the opportunity to explore professions through an immersive experience that can guide participants to meaningful careers post-release. The program allows inmates to discover a variety of professions in a virtual space, learning applicable life skills and working toward a new career. Post-release, inmates are then connected with OCCR to continue working toward identifying and securing a meaningful career path. “It’s a great experience to know you can learn something without having to be there physically. It’s realistic and it changes your perspective on how you perceive learning.” – 31-year-old program participant

36 MULTI-WEEK INMATE PROGRAMS OFFERED

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PARTNERING FOR MORE EFFECTIVE POLICING This year, the Sheriff’s Department, in partnership with the Orange County Health Care Agency (HCA), launched a new program to better serve those experiencing homelessness or mental health disorders. As of March 2024, the Department began triaging non-violent and non-criminal behavioral health and homeless-related calls. For calls that meet specific criteria, they are diverted to OC Links. The 24-hour Behavioral Health Line creates a continuum for care by providing information, referrals, screening, homeless outreach, and dispatching mobile crisis response team. The trust and cooperation of our community is foundational to working together, sharing information, engaging in open dialogue and addressing community concerns. Through our partnerships with county agencies, cities, community organizations, schools and directly with residents, we are working toward a safer environment for everyone. These vital partnerships enhance our ability to respond to emergencies, support victims and proactively address issues.

Since the program began, approximately 60 calls have been diverted to OC Links for crisis care.

COLLABORATE

Every year, the Sheriff’s Department receives approximately 10,000 CALLS FOR SERVICE related to individuals experiencing homelessness or mental health crises.

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- Q. “Does this mean the Sheriff’s Department will stop sending deputies if we call?” A. No. We will continue to dispatch deputies to calls that have a public safety component, as we always have. However, this new program provides additional avenues for services so that deputies are more readily available for in-progress crimes, emergencies and proactive policing. Contacts: 1,866

THE OC SHERIFF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH TEAM CONTACTED 1,866 INDIVIDUALS IN THE FIELD

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“

Citizen’s Academy

COLLABORATE

O range County residents can participate in a nine-week informational series designed to provide an in-depth look at the daily operations of the OC Sheriff’s Department. The Citizens’ Academy class meets once a week for three hours.

“I was excited to learn about how different divisions within the OC Sheriff’s Department work together seamlessly to keep residents of OC safe and connected. My favorite sessions included the jail tour, the Coroner office, SWAT and the bomb squad. I learned about cyber security, how dispatch coordinates units, crime scene investigations and the Orange County Intelligence Assessment Center (OCIAC). Watching the Sheriff’s patrol helicopter, Duke, land for our class helped me realize how OC Sheriff’s is equipped to assist from the sky. The Citizens’ Academy is a close-up view of the Sheriff’s Department and those who serve. After graduating, I was inspired to give back to our community by becoming a volunteer Professional Services Responder (PSR). We can all serve Orange County in avenues that benefit our cities and residents, keeping our communities protected and secure.” — Julie Morris Citizens’ Academy 2022 Class 9

“I help the Sheriff’s Department develop positive relationships with the diverse community we serve. On any given day, I may be organizing 50 deputies to deliver care packages to critically ill children, or coordinating the Citizens’ Academy for Orange County residents, or hosting a meeting

Learn more about the Citizens’ Academy by scanning the QR code.

HOW I SERVE

with dozens of faith and community leaders to discuss emerging issues and concerns. I’m always focused on ways to facilitate interaction and open dialogue between Sheriff’s personnel and community members to foster mutual respect and understanding.”

– Gail Krause, Community Relations Manager

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Teen Academy O ffered to young adults, 16-18 years-old, the Teen Academy is a five-day intensive workshop designed to be a fun, hands-on experience for young adults to learn about the OC Sheriff’s Department. Additionally, teens earn community service hours that can be applied toward their high school graduation requirements. “

“My experience at the Teen Academy was incredible. It taught me the values of hard work, dedication, protection, integrity, passion and love for our community. Whether you want to be in law enforcement or not, our eyes were opened up to so many different career opportunities. During the academy, we were able to tour the new technology center and visit the Coroner’s office where we got to see mock crime scenes. We visited the Crime Lab where evidence is received and examined through toxicology, fingerprints, blood, firearms, vehicles and more. We also got to see the training academy, meet a K-9, look at the dispatch center, and visit Harbor Patrol where we had a boat ride and saw helicopters land. For this camp just being a week long, I was able to witness exciting activities and most of all, make friends. Whether you’re interested in a career in this field or just looking to have some fun, I definitely recommend this program!”

Learn more about the Teen Academy by scanning the QR code.

— Sofia, 17 years old

52 TEENS COMPLETED THE 1 WEEK COURSE

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SERVE

HARBOR CALLS FOR SERVICE 7,647 FOR FY 2023-24

PATROL

Service is the cornerstone of our Department’s mission.

Our commitment to service reflects our dedication to the well-being and safety of the community we proudly serve. By building trust and fostering positive relationships with our residents, we provide custody services and law enforcement patrols for many of the safest cities in the state. We saw the dedicated service of our deputies on nationwide display after the tragic mass shooting in Trabuco Canyon in August 2023. Their valiant heroism reflects our commitment to providing exemplary service above self each and every day.

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Deputy Jameson Gotts followed in the footsteps of his father and grandfather who were law enforcement officers. Growing up in Orange County, he said, “In my 20s, I decided I wanted to pursue a career in law enforcement and saw the opportunities and training the Sheriff’s Department had to offer.”

HOW I SERVE

With 13 years of experience at OC Sheriff’s, Deputy Gotts serves the community as a Master FTO by training deputies as they come out to patrol. “I ensure future patrol deputies are trained to a high standard, enabling them to provide a high level of service to the community. I enjoy working with the partners I have and ensuring the torch is passed on to the next generation of patrol deputies.”

66,143 PROPERTY AND EVIDENCE SUBMISSIONS

– Deputy Jameson Gotts (Patrol) Master Field Training Officer (FTO) Lake Forest Police Services

SAFER COMMUNITIES, TOGETHER We pride ourselves on partnering with the residents we serve in our mission to create safe communities. Stay Safe OC is the OC Sheriff’s crime prevention program dedicated to sharing practical and actionable information to protect you, your family and your property. From fortifying your home security to encouraging safe online behavior to avoiding scams, Stay Safe OC is a one-stop crime prevention and education resource. To learn more about Stay Safe OC and access helpful materials for you and your family, scan the QR code.

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SERVE

We solemnly remember Glen Sprowl, Tonya Clark and John Leehey whose lives were lost on August 23, 2023, and continue to keep the families and friends of the victims in our thoughts and prayers.

Trabuco Canyon: Remembering the victims, honoring the heroes It was spaghetti night. Music was playing, families were laughing and the familiar rumble of motorcycles bellowed outside as locals filed in to Cook’s Corner for their weekly all-you-can-eat meal.

When a volley of gunfire cut through bustling restaurant, the celebratory night quickly turned tragic.

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AN UNASSUMING HERO Southgate Police Department Jailer Nelson Rosales was awarded the prestigious Sheriff’s Award at the Medal of Valor ceremony for his heroic actions during the Trabuco Canyon mass shooting. Nelson came out from behind cover during the shooting to direct deputies to the shooter’s location, changing the trajectory of their response. “He could have ran and nobody would have blamed him if he did,” said OC Sheriff Deputy Jesus Carrasco, the first deputy on scene. “I, for one, am glad he stayed. I truly believe what he did saved my life.”

Ultimately, the deputies stopped the threat and the suspect was pronounced deceased at the scene. OC Sheriff personnel immediately began providing medical care to the injured. Although tragedy could not be prevented that day, the heroic response from Sheriff’s Department personnel undoubtedly saved lives. PERSONNEL HONORED FOR HEROIC RESPONSE Throughout the incident, nearly 250 Sheriff’s Department personnel responded, each fulfilling their duties with professionalism and integrity. Fourteen members of the Department were recognized for exemplary actions in their heroic response. They were presented awards at the 36th annual Medal of Valor ceremony in May.

At 7:04 p.m. on August 23, 2023, a gunman opened fire at the beloved Cook’s Corner restaurant in Trabuco Canyon, sadly claiming the lives of three people and injuring six others. This marked the second worst mass shooting in Orange County’s history, and it was the first in which law enforcement arrived in time to confront the suspect. Deputies were on scene within two minutes of the call and immediately took fire from the suspect. Rounds hit their patrol units, puncturing a windshield and damaging the vehicles. For more than eight minutes, the deputies exchanged gunfire with the suspect who had a tactical advantage and the benefit of taking cover behind a large tree.

MEDAL FOR VALOR Deputy Jesus Carrasco

Deputy Juan Contreras

Deputy Brandon Espinosa

Deputy Mathew Harm

Deputy Christian Moreno

Deputy Brandon Saunders

Deputy Daniel Serrano

MEDAL FOR COURAGE Deputy Jared Brittain MEDAL FOR MERIT Radio Dispatcher Selena Arias MEDAL FOR LIFESAVING Deputy Jose Ascencion

Deputy Aaron Kozloff

Deputy Thomas Mobley

Deputy Guillermo Novales

Deputy Kenny Sun

Nelson Rosales with Sheriff Barnes

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SERVE

DAILY AVERAGE INMATE POPULATION 3,437 FOR FY 2023-24

CUSTODY

SUCCESSFUL RE-ENTRY THE AIM OF NEW PROGRAM OC Sheriff looks to employ programs that support rehabilitation and re-entry for those in our custody. Ensuring justice-involved individuals have the resources they need is an essential part of helping them choose a successful life path post-release. As part of this goal, OC Sheriff partnered with OC Probation, OC Social Services Agency and the OC Health Care Agency (HCA) to participate in California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal (CalAIM).

CalAIM is a multi-year initiative to improve Medi-Cal and better integrate the program with other social services. CalAIM helps identify those in our facilities who may be eligible for Medi-Cal enrollment. OC Sheriff personnel assist them in navigating the process. We then work with our county partners to develop a reentry care plan and a warm handoff in hope of a successful transition post-release.

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OC JAILS COMMENDED FOR CUSTODY PARTNERSHIPS T his year, the OC Sheriff Custody Operations Command was recognized for their work in supporting the mental health needs of those entrusted to our care at the Orange County Jail. The Orange County Grand Jury, a volunteer group of engaged residents that investigates criminal and civil matters in the county, took a global look at how the county is meeting the needs of those in our community with mental health or substance use disorders. As part of their in-depth study, they included a review of law enforcement practices across the county, including in custody facilities. The OC Sheriff’s Intake Release Center (IRC) was commended for partnering with the HCA to better serve those who may struggle with a variety of disorders or diagnoses. The IRC works with HCA to triage all inmates entering the facility to ensure those with immediate mental health needs are provided care. The IRC this fiscal year also saw the completion of its housing upgrade project. The three dedicated mental housing areas were updated with safety features, including security fencing, ADA-compliant housing and facilities that better accommodate group therapy sessions. The new housing employs a direct-supervision model for added security and services for those in custody to serve 441 inmates, which is a 300% increase in specialized housing for our custody facilities.

1,984 BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CASES ASSIGNED TO CUSTODY FACILITIES

CSA Rowena Famisan started at OC Sheriff’s 26 years ago, choosing the Department because of its prestigious reputation providing a high quality of service to the community. As a CSA, Famisan assists with keeping the jails operating smoothly by monitoring inmate movement, maintaining order, and controlling entry and exit to jail facilities. “Custody Operations is a vital part of the Sheriff’s Department and the community. I enjoy coming to work. It challenges and motivates me. Having a positive outlook in life helps me fulfill my duties and responsibilities. For me, it is a great honor and privilege to be part of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.”

HOW I SERVE

Rowena V. Famisan (Custody), Correctional Services Assistant (CSA)

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MORE THAN 12,800 CASES FOR GENERAL INVESTIGATIONS

2,099 SWORN STAFF 1,916 PROFESSIONAL STAFF

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FY 2023-24 SHERIFF-CORONER BUDGET

$ 1.1 billion budget

Patrol Operations $206.2M

Professional Services $148.7M

Administrative Services $251.2M

Custody & Inmate Services $246.3M

Investigations & Special Operations $113.0M

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RECRUITING

At the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, we are more than a law enforcement agency — we are a family dedicated to serving and protecting our community. Whether you’re interested in a sworn or professional staff position, we offer rewarding opportunities where you can make a real impact. We offer competitive pay with comprehensive benefits, ensuring the well being and security of our team members. Additionally, working at the Orange County Sheriff’s Department means coming to work knowing that you’re making a difference in the lives of those around you.

DEPUTY As a Deputy Sheriff, you’ll be at the forefront of keeping our community safe. From patrolling the streets to connecting with the people we serve, you’ll play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of Orange County residents. Join our team and become a part of something bigger — making a difference every day.

WHAT WE OFFER: • Comprehensive Training: Receive top-notch training and development opportunities to excel in your role.

PAY: Deputy Sheriff Trainee $42.23 per hour

Deputy Sheriff I/Lateral (depending on experience) $44.53 - $63.89 per hour

• Career Advancement: Opportunities for growth and advancement within a respected law enforcement agency.

• Benefits: Competitive salary and benefits package, including retirement options and health coverage, plus receive up to $10K a year in education reimbursement.

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PROFESSIONAL STAFF: In every successful law enforcement agency, there is a team of dedicated professionals working tirelessly behind the scenes. Our professional staff members are the backbone of our department, handling crucial tasks that are often unseen, but immensely important. Join us in various professional staff positions and contribute to the safety and security of Orange County.

WHAT WE OFFER: • Meaningful Work: Make a real difference in your community by supporting law enforcement efforts.

• Career Growth: Access opportunities for professional development and advancement within our organization.

• Comprehensive Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, excellent health benefits, retirement plans and up to $10K a year in education reimbursement.

We are currently seeking talented individuals to fill various professional staff positions, including: • Correctional Programs Technician • Institutional Cook • Air Conditioning Mechanic • Community Services Officer • Correctional Services Assistant Trainee

Ready to embark on a rewarding career with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department? Explore our available positions and join our team of dedicated professionals committed

to serving our community with integrity and professionalism at OCSheriff.gov/Join.

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410 INVESTIGATIONS WERE CONDUCTED BY THE GANG ENFORCEMENT TEAMS

2,036 AIR SUPPORT BUREAU CALLS FOR SERVICE

2,353 CSI FIELD DEPLOYMENTS (including outside agencies)

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35 CRISIS NEGOTIATION TEAM CALL OUTS

222 VEHICLES WERE RECOVERED BY THE ORANGE COUNTY AUTO THEFT TASK FORCE

3,316 CASES

WERE INVESTIGATED BY THE FAMILY PROTECTION UNIT

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ORANGE COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT 550 N. Flower Street Santa Ana, California 92703 OCSHERIFF.gov