the Bulletin March 2025

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MARCH 2025

Training Day: Staying Ready to Respond

the BULLETIN •MARCH 2025 | page 1

MARCH 2025

INSIDE THIS ISSUE 3 Letter from Sheriff Barnes 7 Employee Spotlight Investigator Justin Dorn 8 Employee Academy #14 9 Letter from a Student Find the Fact 10 Good Obs 11 Mounted Unit at the Swallows Day Parade 12 Commendations and Recognition 13 Wellness Resources 14 From Our Community Remembrance Day 15 Welcome New Hires 16 Promotional & Career Opportunities

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Swallows Day Parade

Special Olympics Floorball Championship

Mounted Unit honored to be part in long-standing tradition

17 Upcoming Events 23 Service Awards 24 Employee Resources

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LETTER from SHERIFF BARNES

T his month, we closed the second of two investigations related to the Department’s use of custodial informants. The first investigation by the United States Department of Justice began in January 2017 and closed in January 2025 with a sustainability agreement. This agreement will conclude after the U.S. DOJ validates that the Department’s custodial informant practices have been sustained for six months. The second investigation closed just this week, with the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) dismissing their lawsuit with prejudice, meaning the case is permanently closed and cannot be refiled. The ACLU acknowledged in the settlement agreement that their case, filed in 2018, had no impact on Department operations. The resolution of these cases reaffirms that our policies are aligned with constitutional standards and further validates the Department’s dedication to lawful policing practices. These outcomes are unprecedented. In other counties, similar cases have resulted in consent decrees or jail monitors tasked with ensuring compliance with extensive reforms. Orange County avoided such outcomes thanks to the tireless efforts of many personnel. Specifically, I want to recognize the hard work of many teams who contributed to these achievements. Constitutional Policing Advisor Mary Izadi led our discussions with both the U.S. DOJ and the ACLU. Her tenacious defense of our Department and our processes, procedures, and policies surrounding custodial informants paved the way for these landmark results. Additionally, I want to acknowledge the foundational work of Commander Ash Abdelmuti, Captain Ryan Anderson, Commander Brett Darnell, and Retired Captain Scott Merrill, who collaborated with Constitutional Policing Advisor Mary Izadi back in 2022-2023 to set the groundwork for our success today. Their leadership and commitment ensured that our policies and practices surrounding custodial informants were robust and operationally sound. Current and former members of the Special Services Bureau, Classification Bureau, Custody Intelligence Unit, Population Management Unit, Records Division, Discovery Unit, Property/Evidence Bureau, and S.T.A.R. Bureau provided critical documentation and expert testimony throughout these investigations. Their collective efforts made a profound impact in bringing these cases to successful conclusions. You will often hear me refer to the people in our jail as those “entrusted to our care.” This is not merely a phrase; it reflects our duty to ensure that individuals in custody are appropriately cared for during their time with us. I deeply appreciate all of our hardworking custody personnel who tirelessly protect the constitutional rights afforded to everyone. Thank you all for your diligence and persistence in ensuring that our department continues to uphold its commitment to lawful and ethical practices.

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OCTA/SWAT Ttraining

TRAINING DAY: A behind-the-scenes look at how we stay ready to respond Training remains the cornerstone of our operational efficiency and effectiveness. We invest in being as prepared as possible to respond to any type of call and navigate challenging circumstances. Whether it’s bi-monthly training or specialized annual exercises, giving sworn and professional staff the opportunity to enhance their knowledge and skill allows us to better serve our community. Take a look at some behind-the-scenes photos of training conducted throughout the Department in recent months.

The Emergency Management Division led the 2024 County Tabletop Exercise at the County Administrative South building this fall to test the county’s preparedness for a large-scale emergency. This training was the first in a series and the Emergency Management Division will hold its successive functional exercise April 30.

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Incident Command Structure Exercises

Scenarios Using Simunition

CNT Ttraining

“The secret of our success is found in our daily agenda.” – John C. Maxwell

K-9 Orientation and Technique

On Wednesday, March 19, our K-9 Unit and Air Support Unit teamed up for their annual training exercise. The K-9s practiced safely boarding and exiting helicopters, as well as deploying in remote landing zones—preparing them for real-world scenarios where aerial support is crucial.

Airport Police Services teamed up with the Orange County Fire Authority Fire/EMS and mutual aid partners for a hands-on, airport-specific active shooter scenario.

Patrol Entry Training

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Six Points For Kids SPECIAL OLYMPICS FLOORBALL CHAMPIONSHIP S pecial Olympics Southern California held their season-ending Floorball Championship on Saturday, March 1 with 19 uniformed Sheriff’s personnel in attendance to cheer on the athletes and award medals. The competition was fierce with the Laguna Hills Hawks bringing home the gold. Thank you to all who volunteered and represented the Sheriff’s Department.

Supporting our COMMUNITY

Heroes Supporting Heroes in Yorba Linda O n March 20, OC Sheriff’s deputies and OC Fire Authority firefighters came together with local Special Olympics athletes at Chili’s in Yorba Linda. The

Heroes Supporting Heroes event was held to raise awareness and funds for Special Oympics’ programs. More than $4,000 was raised for Special Oympics! Thank you to the personnel and community members who worked the event and came out to show support.

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EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT Meet Investigator Justin Dorn!

I n the world of investigations, cases can feel like puzzles, the pieces are there, but it’s a matter of figuring out how and where they fit. For Investigator Justin Dorn, solving the puzzle is a calling. As an investigator with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, serving the city of Stanton, Investigator Dorn handles a wide range of cases, from property crimes to crimes against persons. “This job never repeats itself— there’s always something new to learn or solve,” he says. His day-to-day can include anything from conducting follow-ups on cases, analyzing evidence, interviewing victims and suspects, and working closely with patrol deputies and forensic specialists to build strong cases. “Many people don’t realize that being an investigator isn’t just a 9-to-5 job,” he explains. “Major crimes and critical incidents don’t wait for business hours, which means we rarely get a full night’s sleep on weekends due to after-hours callouts.” In addition to his work and ongoing cases, Investigator Dorn values the team he works with and the leadership at Stanton Police Services.

“One of my favorite things about this job is working under Sergeant Bogdanovich and Captain Pierce. They set the tone for a strong, supportive work environment, and I truly enjoy being part of their team.” However, one of his proudest moments wasn’t crime or even case-related. Following the tragic passing of Deputy Brian Haney, Investigator Dorn and the Backgrounds Unit organized a BBQ fundraiser to support Deputy Haney’s family. “We spent the entire night smoking BBQ, and the next day, we served it to the department. The turnout was incredible, and we raised a significant amount of money,” he recalls. “It was a powerful reminder that, at the end of the day, we are a family that stands together even in the hardest times.” When he’s not solving crimes, Investigator Dorn enjoys traveling and has visited over 35 countries, with a goal to see them all. He also has a passion for BBQ, running a small business called Dorn Brothers BBQ which he jokingly calls a “failing” venture. “I love cooking for friends, family, and department events,” he says. “BBQ is a passion of mine, and whether it’s for a fundraiser or just a good meal, I enjoy bringing people together over great food.”

For those considering a career in law enforcement, Dorn emphasizes the importance of making good decisions early in life. “Your choices now, including staying out of trouble, can impact whether you’re selected for this career,” he advises. “Law enforcement agencies hold applicants to high standards, and past mistakes can follow you. That being said, this is one of the most exciting and rewarding jobs out there. Every day is different, the opportunities are endless, and if you put in the effort, there’s no limit to what you can achieve.” With over a decade of service, Investigator Justin Dorn continues to serve with passion and a commitment to justice. “I love working at the department because the opportunities are endless, and there’s something for everyone. More than anything, I’ve met lifelong friends here, and that’s what makes this career truly special.”

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Employee Academy Graduation

Class #14

O n March 21, Class #14 of the OC Sheriff’s Academy concluded with a graduation celebration for the 33 professional staff members who participated in the eight-week program. The Employee Academy provides professional staff with an in-depth look into the daily operations of the Sheriff’s Department. Thank you to all the department personnel who provided informative presentations and tours to the class. Your contributions made the academy an educational and enjoyable experience for the participants.

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A letter from a student from San Marcos High School L ezly Yanez, a student at San Marcos High School, is working on a project for her criminal justice class about Deputy Sheriff Carlos J. Cammon, who collapsed during a SWAT tryout and passed away in 2019 after never regaining consciousness. The project was assigned by her teacher, Andrew Golebiewsk, as part of National Police Week in May. She expresses deep sympathy for Deputy Cammon’s family, drawing on her own experience with loss, having seen a close friend struggle after a serious accident. Lezly honors the deputy’s dedication and service, recognizing the hard work and sacrifice that comes with being an officer. She hopes his family can find strength and healing and assures them that his memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. Lezly will be presenting this project to her class and will emphasize to her classmates that Deputy Cammon left a lasting impact on the community and reminding everyone that he will always be remembered with love and respect.

FIND THE FACT

Which OC Sheriff recruit class was the first to include women ? Congratulations to Cori J. Moon, Office Specialist in HR Records for guessing last month’s Fun Fact. Email your guess to info@ocsheriff.gov to be entered in an opportunity drawing for $5 Starbucks gift card! Emails must be received by April 21, 2025.

This photo is thought to date to 1969 or 1970, when female deputies’ duties were confined to the new Women’s Central Jail or Transportation.

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GOOD OBS Every day, deputies are proactively looking to make our communities safer. Here are a few examples out of patrol operations of deputies making great observations that led to arrests.

Laguna Hills deputies arrest burglary suspect On February 24, Laguna Hills deputies were on patrol when they located a probationer who matched the description of a suspect who recently stole from a retail store. When the deputies detained him and searched his belongings, they recovered the stolen items. The suspect was arrested and booked into Orange County Jail.

Rightful owner gets stolen e-bike back A Lake Forest deputy spotted a probationer who was in possession of a $2,000 stolen e-bike. The suspect was charged with theft and a probation hold, and the rightful owner was reunited with his bicycle.

Traffic stop in South Unincorporated yields loaded handgun and drug paraphernalia South Patrol deputies conducted a traffic stop on March 10 in Ladera Ranch and when the deputies searched the vehicle, they found a loaded 9mm handgun, illegal narcotics and drug paraphernalia. They also learned the handgun did not belong to the driver. The driver was arrested and booked into jail.

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O n Saturday, March 22, the OC Regional Mounted Enforcement Units saddled up and came together to take part in the annual Swallows Day Parade in the city of San Juan Capistrano. This time-honored event celebrates the return of the swallows and the deep-rooted Western heritage of the community. OC Sheriff was joined by Fullerton, Santa Ana, Huntington Beach and Irvine PDs. Our Mounted Enforcement Unit proudly rode alongside fellow agencies, showcasing the strength, unity, and tradition of mounted law enforcement. It’s always an honor to be part of this historic parade and to connect with the community we serve! OC Sheriff Mounted Unit assists at the annual SJC Swallows Day Parade

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COMMENDATIONS & RECOGNITION

one writing down the charges for me, and the officer who helped clarify the loop situation, had been extremely kind and understanding. The professionalism and gentleness displayed by your staff have truly made a difficult experience much more bearable. Please extend my heartfelt thanks to your entire team for making what could have been a very stressful situation far more manageable. Your commitment to treating visitors with respect and empathy does not go unnoticed, and I greatly appreciate it.”

Theo Lacy staff acknowledged for exceptional professionalism Siobhan Hickey, a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteer, recently visited Theo Lacy because the foster care youth she has been assisting for the past two years recently turned 18 years old. She wrote to express her sincere gratitude for the exceptional professionalism and courtesy shown to her by the staff at Theo Lacy. “I want to thank your deputies for their politeness and patience. This past weekend, when my CASA kiddo was in the loop, I was pulled from the visiting room to be informed about the situation. Every deputy involved, from the one calling me into the lobby, to the Nate Wilson O n March 21 the Orange County Sheriff’s Department promoted Assistant Sheriff Nate Wilson to oversee the Department’s Custody Operations Command. He will lead initiatives to continue providing safe and secure facilities for incarcerated persons; including programming focused on re entry services and integrated services for inmates with mental health and substance use disorders. Assistant Sheriff Wilson’s promotion comes after the retirement of Assistant Sheriff Andy Stephens. “Assistant Sheriff Wilson is an effective, pragmatic and well-respected leader within our organization who has extensive experience in custody operations,” said Sheriff Barnes. “He has established himself as an expert in navigating the challenging issues we face in our custody system, and I look forward to the contributions he will make.” Congratulations Assistant Sheriff Wilson!

Congratulations to our new Assistant Sheriff

Sheriff Barnes with Assistant Sheriff Nate Wilson

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Wellness Resources Taking care of your mental and physical health is important to living a long and healthy life. The County of Orange and the Sheriff’s Department offer free, convenient resources to support your overall well-being. Here are some facts about your employee benefits you may not know: Resources for Living

Resources for Living through the County Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Mindbase Application

Mindbase is a one-stop shop wellness app providing a suite of clinically validated wellness sessions and high-impact learning modules designed for first responders and others working within the first responder community. The Mindbase App is available to all Department Members (including Reserves and PSRs), their immediate family members, and retirees. The App’s personal, confidential assessments provide users with the ability to self-check and track their progress, and allows users to connect with the Peer Support Team, The Counseling Team International (TCTI), Resources for Living, The Chaplain Hotline, and other service providers and resources all in one place. Agency Code for department members:

Resources for Living (RFL) is available to all employees at no cost to you — regardless of medical plan enrollment. All members of your household can also use Resources for Living, including children up to age 26 whether they live at home or not. The services are confidential. RFL includes free counseling services, legal and financial assistance, daily life support, and access to self-improvement resources. Employees, all members of their households, and their adult children living away from home up to age 26, can access six free counseling sessions per separate issue each year, available in person, over the phone, via tele-video, and chat or text therapy. Immediate crisis support is also available 24/7. Other benefits include daily life assistance, which can help with tasks such as finding childcare, elder care, or home services, and access to discount programs for fitness clubs, travel, and entertainment. You can access these services through a toll-free number 800-221-0945, or the Resources for Living website ResourcesForLiving.com. Login Information: Username: Orange County ca (case sensitive) Password: EAP

CAORANGESD (for verification purposes, use department email at registration) Agency Code for family members and retirees: OCSHERIFFFAM.

The Counseling Team International (TCT)

All Members of the Sheriff’s Department (including Reserves and PSRs), their spouses, and dependent children living within the household under the age of 26 can schedule ten counseling sessions per issue, provided free of charge. TCTI provides in-person or virtual appointments with clinicians who are uniquely qualified to help with challenges faced by public safety and their families. Services provided by TCTI are confidential and they can be contacted at 800-222 9691 or through the Mindbase application.

Chaplain Program

Chaplains offer non-denominational comfort, emotional support, and spiritual care to Department Members (including Reserves and PSRs). Any Department Member can call the Chaplain Hotline at 657-299-0477 at any time of the day to speak to a Chaplain confidentially or to request a callout response for support.

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FROM OUR COMMUNITY Mission Viejo resident, Vivian, recently reached out to OC Sheriff’s Facebook to share her gratitude after deputies assisted her family. She wrote:

“My son lives in Mission Viejo and occasionally faces mental health challenges. Since he lives alone, there have been times when your deputies have stepped in to help him. I just want to express my deepest gratitude for the kindness, professionalism, and preparedness of your team. Both he and I are incredibly thankful for the support you’ve provided. We truly appreciate all that you do.”

O n April 21, 1958, Deputy Robert Schultz was shot and killed after he and his partner stopped a school bus being driven by a man suffering from mental illness. The man’s family was riding in the bus and had displayed signs for help in the windows. The deputies stopped the bus near Dana Point and started getting the family off of the bus. As they did so, the man ordered his 11-year-old son to shoot the deputies and the boy opened fire with a .22 caliber rifle. Deputy Shultz was struck by a round and killed, and his partner was wounded. Thank you for your service and dedication to Orange County, Deputy Schultz.

Remembrance Day

Deputy Robert L. Schultz End of Watch April 21, 1958

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OC Sheriff WELCOMES NEW HIRES Highlighting new professional staff and laterals

Noemi Tapia Sosa Office Specialist Records

Jan Dominic Atis Bartolome Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training Angel Fernando Canales Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training

Claudia Flores-Etkin Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training Emmy Kimberly Gomez Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training Vanessa Gonzalez Reyes Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training Julio Guillen Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training Rodrigo Guillermo Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training Jonathan Craig Hand Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training Ramiro Hernandez Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training Brianna Elaine Hicks Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training Darla Cristine Hoyos Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training Juan Carlos Jimenez Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training

Ariana Marie Leon Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training

Camreen Lynn Taylor Community Services Officer Southwest Operations

Salvador James Macias Sheriff’s Special Officer I Training Matthew Ryan Macmillen Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training

Jamaal P. Thompson Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training Dante Antonio Tobar Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training

Berlyn Tiera Carreon Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training Audriana Monique Carrillo-Gonzalez Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training

Grecia Morales Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training Jeszel Moreno Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training

Kevin Vargas Hernandez Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training Yessica G. Villagran Cardoso Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training Uriel A. Villanueva-Rojo Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training

Jocelyn Angelina Castaneda Community Services Officer Southwest Operations

Karen Sugey Munoz Luna Institutional Cook Inmate Services Cesar Daniel Nunez Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training Mark A. Manaog Oliva Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training

Rafael Castellanos Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training

Minji Choi Accounting Office Supervisor I Inmate Services Ariana Jazlyn Cisneros Sheriff’s Special Officer I Training Giovanni A. Dominguez Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training

Peppe Rivera Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training

Dana Padla Estrella Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training

Arturo Anthony Sepulveda Correctional Services Assistant Trainee Training

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Job Board

Promotional Opportunities

Recruitment is currently open on a continuous basis, unless noted, for the following positions until the needs of the department are met. Only online applications will be accepted at: www.governmentjobs.com/careers/oc/promotionaljobs.

Sheriff’s Records Supervisor

Career Opportunities

Public recruitment is currently open on a continuous basis, unless noted, for the following positions until the needs of the department are met. Only online applications will be accepted at: www.governmentjobs.com/careers/oc.

Communications Installation Technician Communications Installer

Communications Technician II (Technical Services Unit) Sr. Communications Technician (Radio Microwave Unit) Correctional Services Assistant Trainee - Next test day - Saturday, April 5, 2025 Deputy Sheriff I (Lateral Only) Deputy Sheriff I (Orange County Sheriff’s Regional Training Academy Graduates Only) Deputy Sheriff Trainee - Next test day - Saturday, May 3, 2025 Head Institutional Cook

Institutional Cook Marine Painter Radio Dispatcher Trainee Sheriff’s Air Conditioning Mechanic Sheriff’s Electrician Sheriff’s Facilities Mechanic

For questions, please contact Recruiting at (714) 834-5811.

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UPCOMING EVENTS

SAVE THE DATE UPCOMING SPFK EVENTS

Wednesday 04/09/2025 3-5 PM aMAYZing Kids Officer Friendly Clinic Visit

Special Olympics Spring Games

Saturday 05/10/2025 8-10 AM

ALL PERSONNEL

UNIFORMED PERSONNEL

Email questions to SixPointsForKids@ocsheriff.gov More information to follow. SixPointsForKids@ocsheriff.gov

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2025

RAISING AWARENESS AND SUPPORT FOR LOCAL SPECIAL OLYMPICS ATHLETES

RUNNERS NEEDED

wednesday, May 28

Leg 1: San Clemente - 5 miles 1400 -1500 Leg 2: Dana Point - 6 miles 1500 -1600 Leg 3: Laguna Niguel - 3 miles 1600 -1630

Friday, May 30

NEW ROUTE! - Yorba Linda - 4 miles 1145 -1230

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Laguna Hills Laguna Hills Comm. Center 25555 Alicia Pkwy. Laguna Hills, CA 92653 Laguna Niguel Laguna Niguel City Hall 30111 Crown Valley Pkwy. Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 Laguna Woods Laguna Woods City Hall 24264 El Toro Rd. Laguna Woods, CA 92637 Lake Forest Lake Forest Civic Center 100 Civic Center Dr. Lake Forest, CA 92630 Mission Viejo DROP OFF LOCATIONS RSM City Hall 22112 El Paseo Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688 Rossmoor Rush Park 3021 Blume Drive Rossmoor, CA 90720 San Clemente San Clemente City Hall 910 Calle Negocio San Clemente, CA 92673 San Juan Capistrano SJC Police Services 32506 Paseo Adelanto San Juan Cap., CA 92675 Villa Park Villa Park City Hall M.V. Christian Church 27192 Jeronimo Rd. Mission Viejo, CA 92692 Rancho Mission Viejo The Pavilion Park 2 Tierno Rancho Mission Viejo, CA 92694 RSM

NATIONAL Prescription TAKE BACK DAY Saturday, April 26, 2025 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Free and anonymous. No questions asked. NO Sharps, Marijuana, Liquids or pressure cannisters will be accepted. Bring unwanted, unused, and expired prescription medications. {

60% - 70% of teens report their home medicine cabinet as their source of drugs. Don’t let your medicine cabinet be the source of drugs for anyone.

17855 Santiago Blvd. Villa Park, CA 92861 Yorba Linda

Yorba Linda Police Services 20994 Yorba Linda Blvd. Yorba Linda, CA 92887

For more information call (714) 647- 4133. The event will be held rain or shine. To find additional drop off locations, visit dea.gov/takebackday dea.gov/takebackday

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CAREER FAIR & OPEN HOUSE For professional and sworn positions

PATROL

9:00 am to 1:00 pm

Saturday June 21 2025

See Helicopters, SWAT, Bomb Squad, Horses and K-9s. Explore opportunities in Forensic Science, Technology, Finance and more!

FORENSIC SCIENCE

15991 Armstrong Ave. , Tustin, CA 92782

Meet the men and women who serve the Orange County community. Learn about careers and current openings for both sworn and professional staff positions while getting a look inside the various teams, equipment and vehicles of the Sheriff’s Department. The entire community is invited to our Career Fair & Open House. If you or someone you know is interested in career opportunities with the Sheriff’s Department, please come out and join us. We are looking to fill a wide range of positions with qualified candidates. This is a family-friendly event. Snacks and drinks will be provided.

MOUNTED UNIT

FINANCE

CSA