the Bulletin April 2025

Mission Viejo deputies recognized for their professionalism during an incident at a park On February 21, a subject was threatening people at Olympiad Park in Mission Viejo. Deputy Daniel Gerlach and his partner responded to the location. The resident states: “The deputies’ professionalism and experience was evident by the pertinent questions being asked of the witnesses, coupled with their command presence demonstrated. Deputy Gerlach also explained the specific elements and laws of arrest pertaining to the crimes committed by the suspect. His demeanor was calming and reassuring of a tenured law enforcement officer policing our community. My hope is that this commendation will act as a ‘Thank You’ for your public service in making our community a safer place to live, work and play.” SMART (School Mobile Assessment and Resource Team) acknowledged for their swift response to a possible school threat In the early morning hours on April 15, St. Margaret’s Episcopal School in San Juan Capistrano learned of a potential shooting threat on their campus. The school decided to close the campus for the day and directed students to stay home. SMART conducted several interviews at student residences throughout the south Orange County region and worked in partnership with school administration. By the afternoon, SMART determined there was no physical threat to the school community based on information developed in their investigation. Alanna Cajthaml, Chief Financial and Operating Officer for St. Margaret’s Episcopal School wrote: Thank you so much for your swift response to our student incident yesterday. The clarity and direction provided by SMART was remarkable. While we never want to have to call upon your expertise, •••••••• •••••••• ••••••••••

we are so grateful for the strong partnership with OCSD. Please pass along our thanks to the whole team. •••••••• •••••••• •••••••••• Investigator Lauren Felix recognized for her compassion and commitment in finding a missing family member A grateful son expressed his appreciation to Investigator Felix for her efforts to locate his missing father. Mr. Guo states: “I’m writing to express my sincere gratitude and commend Investigator Lauren Felix for her outstanding dedication during a very difficult time for my family. Her involvement was instrumental in helping locate my missing father. I had the opportunity to speak with Investigator Felix twice — once on April 18 at approximately 4 p.m., and again on Sunday, April 20 at 7:30 a.m., which I later learned was her day off. Despite this, she responded with professionalism, care, and unwavering support. Her communication brought comfort and clarity during a deeply stressful time. Thanks in part to her responsiveness, and behind the-scenes efforts, we were ultimately able to find my father. I have no doubt that her dedication— both seen and unseen—played a significant role in the outcome. Ms. Felix’s compassion and commitment reflect great credit on your department, and my family is truly grateful for her service. She is a remarkable representative of your team.”

Continued next page

the BULLETIN •APRIL 2025 | page 15