The Rotary Club of Laguna Niguel selected Deputy Brad Carrington as their Top Cop. Here is what the club gave as their reasons:

Deputy Brad Carrington was raised locally here in South Orange County.  Brad graduated Mission Viejo High School in 1975.  He joined the Orange County Sheriffs Department in 1986.   Brad was assigned to the Central Men’s Jail for a year prior to being transferred to the James Musick Facility.  He was assigned to the Musick Facility for approximately four years.  In October of 1992, Brad was transferred to South Operations and the City of Laguna Niguel.  He has patrolled these streets for sixteen years.  He has worked a number of assignments in the city, and has settled in as a traffic deputy.

Brad has completed a number of specialized training courses pertaining to traffic accident investigations.  Some of the courses include: Basic, intermediate, and Advanced Traffic Accident Investigation, Traffic Accident Reconstruction, and Motorcycle Accident Investigation.

 President of the Laguna Niguel Rotary Joe Davis , Deputy Brad Carrington and Lieutenant Linda Solorza, Chief of Police Services in Laguna Niguel.

Brad is one of the more senior Deputies assigned to the City of Laguna Niguel.  He lives locally and knows the city backwards and forwards.  He is a Field Training Officer and has trained over twenty deputies assigned to South Operations.

Brads Supervisors recognize him as one of the most reliable Deputies in the City.  It is not rare for him to offer to work extended shifts or his days off as needed.  Deputy Brad Carrington is dedicated to the residents of Laguna Niguel as well as those who work and visit our beautiful city.   Deputy Brad Carrington was unanimously chosen by his supervisors to be Deputy of the Year.          

The Joyful Child Foundation, created in memory of Orange County kidnap victim Samantha Runnion, bestowed an Award of Appreciation to Orange County Sheriff's Department Media Relations Director Jim Amormino.  

The plaque read in part: "In appreciation for your support of The Joyful Child Foundation's efforts to prevent child sexual abuse and abduction through programs that unite and uplift communities in the protection and wonderment of all children. Together we will stop predatory crimes against children. 'Be Brave'"

Director Amormino helped Samantha Runnion's mother Erin and other relatives cope with massive coverage by the national and international press on the days following the 2002 kidnapping of five-year old Samantha in Stanton.

To read the Orange County Register's account of the Foundation's Awards luncheon click here. 

To view the Joyful Child Foundation's Website, click here. 

EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTER ACTIVATED AFTER 5.4 MAGNITUDE EARTHQUAKE  

A 5.4 magnitude earthquake struck the Chino Hills area at 11:42 a.m.  The Orange County Emergency Operations Center has been activated.  Officials from several County agencies are currently collaboratively assessing the situation. County officials are ready to address any potential issues and/or needs, locally, or the needs of other neighboring jurisdictions. Currently no significant injuries or major structural damage has been reported.

Some areas are experiencing interrupted phone service.   Please continue to monitor your local news coverage for the latest information. For tips on earthquake preparedness, log on to http://www.readyoc.org/ Unless you have a life threatening emergency please do not call 911.

Jan Sener, Director of Crime Prevention, was recently commended by Lori Donchak, Mayor Pro Tem of the City of San Clemente, for her commitment and leadership abilities. Jan recently organized the San Clemente Youth Task Force meeting. She assembled a cross-section of speakers and executed a productive and timely agenda for the evening.    Mayor Pro Tem Donchak wrote, "It was absolutely clear that the audience respects and values Jan's involvement in their community needs." The meeting was attended by over 100 citizens with growing attendance each meeting. This is attributed to Jan's dedication to the youth and her ability to create a process and a culture for change in San Clemente.

Deputy Steve Marble of San Clemente Police Services was recently commended by Debbie Simpson, Crisis Team Manager of TIP (Trauma Intervention Program). Debbie said she and another TIP volunteer were dispatched to a residence in San Clemente after a male in his 30's had committed suicide and was found by his estranged wife. The victim's brother came to the residence and became very confrontational with Deputy Marble and the estranged wife. Debbie wrote, "Deputy Marble was fabulous. He took the brother aside and talked to him for a long time and made sure he calmed down. Later he checked in with us to see if there was anything else he could do to help. We believe Deputy Marble made all the difference in how the situation could have turned out. We want to commend him for being so caring and for going out of his way to help someone. He is a terrific representative of the Orange County Sheriff's Department."

On June 11, 2008, Home Owner Association president Ron Capizzi of Mission Viejo commended the performance of Radio Dispatcher Alva Jensen on a recent call for service. Ron stated that he called the desk and spoke to Alva regarding a parking problem in Mission Viejo. He stated that Alva was very helpful and the responding personnel were able to contact the owners of all illegally parked recreational vehicles in the area and have them moved. In the message he stated that Alva was instrumental in helping to solve the parking problem with her friendly and helpful demeanor which is a credit to the Sheriff's Department.

Deputy D. Holloway and Deputy D. Monteleone of Laguna Hills Police Services were recently commended for their assistance with a sensitive family issue in Laguna Woods. The citizen stated their compassion and the professional way they handled themselves are a credit to the department.

Lieutenant W. Griffin of South Operations received a letter of commendation from the Ladera Ranch Community Director for the outstanding job the reserve deputies did on July 4th. She stated everyone had a safe and fun day due to their presence and wished to express her appreciation for them giving up their holiday to work the event. Congratulations on a job well done to Deputies B. Novak, F. Chirico, S. Lytton, R. Townsend, J. Delahaye and J. Messina.

Deputies Roberto Miranda and Greg Allen were recently commended by a citizen named Christy. She spoke very highly of the manner in which they performed their duties at the Theo Lacy Facility Lobby. Christy came to visit her husband at Theo Lacy to tell him his father passed away. She said, "This has been the worst situation my family has ever been through. We have never had to deal with anything of this magnitude before and dealing with the death of my husband's father was hard on us all. I just wanted to say thank you for your understanding when I had to tell him his father passed. Your staff was very caring and concerned about the mental health of my husband in this time of need." Christy was very appreciative with how she and her family were treated by our staff members and concluded the letter with, "Once again, thank you for making this unpleasant experience easier on my family."

On July 15, 2008, Barbara Moran wrote a letter commending Sergeant Dave Sawyer. Mrs. Moran commended Sergeant Sawyer for helping her resolve a matter regarding her son who was an inmate at the James A. Musick Facility. Mrs. Moran stated she was calling from out of state and was fortunate to reach such a "professional and courteous official." She further said, "I am truly grateful for the professional attitude and courteous assistance of Sergeant Dave Sawyer."

The Los Angeles Times ran an editorial on Saturday praising the actions of Sheriff Sandra Hutchens but they mischaracterized one of her initiatives. The editorial inferred that she was dismantling the Professional Services Respoder program. She has recalled badges from the PSRs. It was not in a step toward dismantling the program but rather to restructure it to better serve the needs of the Department.

"I disagree with the characterization in the Los Angeles Times that few of the PSRs help the Department. The PSRs provide a valuable service to the Department and we do not want to lose them. I plan to retool the program to erase the negative perception that continues to undermine their extraordinary work ." she said.  

The Editorial began with this:

O.C. Sheriff shines the badge
Sandra Hutchens' efforts to repair her department's image are on target.
July 26, 2008

Orange County's new sheriff started off with reforms that were by and large symbolic gestures to clean government. Stripping badges from civilian volunteers, few of whom actually helped the department. Reviewing all of the concealed-weapons permits issued in recent years. Traveling without an entourage. Good for her. A few symbols of ethical behavior were exactly what the department needed.

To read the entire editorial click here.

The Department Blood Drive on July 23 resulted in 52 individuals donating 52 pints of blood and 10 others deferring their donations.

The American Red Cross estimates that the donation of 52 pints of blood can help save up to 155 lives.

Deputy Curtis D. Vincent, who coordinated the Blood Drive, said it was one of the best turnouts ever.

Here is his note of thanks to those who participated:

Thank you to all that participated in the Blood Drive on Wednesday July 23, 2008. It was a success again because of all of you. We had 62 Employees from various parts of the Department and County Agencies that attended this drive.

I had the Raffle Tickets Drawn on Wednesday July 23, 2008 By Sergeant S. Dexter and the winners for the prizes are listed below.

1- $25.00 Shell Gas Card  Sergeant G.W – IRC
1- $25.00 Shell Gas Card  Deputy C. D. – IRC
1- $25.00 Shell Gas Card  Deputy A. P, – IRC
1- $25.00 Chili’s Restaurant  Deputy C. M. – Central Justice Center
1- $10.00 Starbucks Card  H. C. – OCSD Financial
1- $10.00 Starbucks Card  D. T. – OC Health Care Agency
1 -$15.00 I-Tunes Card   Mary Hong –
1 -$15.00 I-Tunes Card   B. G. – OC Health Care Agency
1 -First Aid Kit    D. F. – CWJ

Thank You again to all who participated. If you do not hear from me in the next couple of days leave me a message so I can get you prizes to you.

Thank You

Deputy C.D. Vincent
IRC - CJX

 

For those who want to learn more about donating blood and what the blood is used for go to the Red Cross Website by clicking here.

Lieutenant Dan Dwyer arrived for his tour as Operations Watch Commander on a recent Friday with a wish that it be an easier shift than the one he pulled the previous Sunday.

On that last shift Dwyer directed the response to the discovery of five dead bodies in a San Clemente home.  The deaths are still under investigation but it has been determined that nobody outside the house contributed to the deaths.  

When Lt. Dwyer arrived at the Loma Ridge Emergency Operation Center the Friday after the five deaths, he was briefed by Lt. Ted Boyne.The two have known each other since Lt. Boyne was Lt. Dwyer’s training officer at the Men’s Central Jail in 1984.

The Watch Commander on a Friday night will have between 120 and 160 patrol cars in the field, as well as responsibility for twelve contract cities, many miles of unincorporated area spread over virtually all of Orange County, the OCTA, building security and SSO traffic enforcement. His staff will provide backup for the Airport and Harbor Patrol dispatchers. When Lt. Boyne goes home, Dwyer opens his computer and looks at the screen to see what cars are on calls.

The screen categorizes calls in four different colors. Red is for top priority calls, where lives may be at stake. Yellow is priority two, no lives at stake but a vandalism or theft may be in progress. Green is priority three, vandalism or theft may have recently occurred. Then there is blue, illegally parked cars and that sort of thing.

On hand at the dispatch center, Lt. Dwyer has a staff of dispatchers, 911 emergency call takers, Control One dispatchers and technical wizards who babysit the rooms filled with electronic gadgets needed for thousands of radios. All these resources must be orchestrated to make it possible to place a deputy in the right location as quickly as possible when a call for help comes in from the public. More...

For the 10th time in 11-years the Orange County Sheriff’s Department booth has been proclaimed the best booth of any county agency at the Orange County Fair.

The honor was given by a panel of independent judges who reviewed dozens of booths sponsored by county departments and associated agencies, all located in Building 16.  

Sheriff’s Department Community Programs Executive Director Marilyn MacDougall said her staff strives each year to create a presentation that is in line with the annual theme of the fair. The theme this year is “Say Cheese.” 

The booth this features a selection of photographs of Department operations along cheese themed illustrations and a realistic cutout of a Department motorcycle and officer. The cutout allows Fair visitors to have their picture taken so their own face appears in the place of the motor officer.        

 

Message from the Undersheriff 

Sheriff Hutchens named me as the new Undersheriff.  I am truly honored to be part of such a great organization and look forward to working closely with the men and women of the Orange County Sheriff's Department. My responsibility will be to implement the Sheriff's vision for re-building the department. Sheriff Hutchens also named her new command staff to oversee the important law enforcement business in Orange County. Each of the Assistant Sheriffs brings a level of expertise and a strong commitment to their operational area.  She has also expanded those operational areas to include an "Administrative" position to handle training, Professional Standards, risk management and other issues of critical importance to the department.  With these changes will come additional promotions and job opportunities.  I look forward to working with each of you in restoring the public trust.  Thank you for your continued service! 

Sheriff Sandra Hutchens has asked that all Professional Service Responders turn in their badges while she reviews the volunteer program. As a result of her request, Lieutenant Thomas Slayton, who supervises the program, sent the following letter to all PSRs praising their service and explaining why their badges should be turned in:

As you may have already heard, there are some changes being made to the PSR program. Our new Sheriff, Sandra Hutchens, is very aware of the valuable service you provide to the people of Orange County. However, she would not be doing her job if she didn’t evaluate all aspects of this department with a fresh set of eyes. We recently met with the new Sheriff in order to discuss the ongoing issue of badges, and it was determined that, in light of the recent California Attorney General opinion on the subject, it would be prudent to collect all badges issued to PSRs. Although I understand that some of you may find this frustrating, I believe that it was the right thing to do and I’ll explain why. 

2007 was a banner year for the PSR program. Collectively, you donated over 16,000 hours to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, and to the people of Orange County. Some examples of your service include: 

·         Daily traveler assistance at John Wayne Airport. In this assignment, you have helped countless harried travelers navigate the terminal, and served as the Sheriff’s Department’s “eyes and ears” for dangerous and illegal activity.

·         Robotic construction and programming for the Hazardous Devices Squad (Bomb Squad).

·         Flying air missions for the department, using your own aircraft to do so.

·         Acting as a mobile “Citizen Patrol” for some of our contract cities. In this role, you have helped to suppress property crimes and juvenile activity. You have done this safely and appropriately by serving as “eyes and ears” for the department, never making contact but reporting what you see.

·         Volunteering as an Emergency Communications Dispatcher

·         Search and Rescue – in this role, you work side-by-side with sworn reserves. Among other things, you respond to search for missing hikers, children, the elderly, and weapons used in the commission of a crime. Often in the middle of the night while the rest of us are sleeping.

·         Performing photography and other high-tech computer services as needed. Most recently, some of you provided free assistance on the Community Services Division’s new blog as well as a complete renovation of the Orange County Training Manager’s Association's website, including all programming and hosting. 

These are just a small sample of the most recent work for which you are responsible. This program is healthy, vital, and above reproach. Unfortunately, it had a very controversial beginning and has been shrouded in suspicion ever since. Many articles have been written on the program, unfortunately, very few of them have emphasized the good work that is being done every day. To the media (and the public), this program is still viewed in a negative light for one reason, and one reason only: the badges. 

All of you are fully aware that it is against department policy to carry your credentials when not serving as a PSR. Further, you also know that displaying your badge in an effort to gain favor or preferential treatment would only infuriate a peace officer, resulting in additional complications. Unfortunately, realities such as these are completely lost on those who are on the outside, looking in. Regardless of why the badges were originally issued, they are ultimately unnecessary and serve only to drag this fine program down in the eyes of the very people who are benefiting from its services. Therefore, I ask you all not to see this as an indictment of the program, but instead as an opportunity for its redemption. 

Your good work has gone unnoticed all too long and it’s time to divert the attention of the media and the public from that “shiny object” to your valuable service.

Here's the video of yesterday's press conference. Sheriff Hutchens gives a preview of her CCW policy for the first four minutes and forty seconds (4:40). The video will allow you to scroll ahead if you desire: 

 

 

Updated 0920, 07/24/08 

Sheriff Sandra Hutchens announced her command staff, which includes former Acting Sheriff Jack Anderson, current Command Staff Members Assistant Sheriff J.B. Davis and Executive Director Rick Dostal, Capt. Mike James and two new faces: retired Los Angeles County Sheriff Department Chief John Scott and Los Angeles Police Department Deputy Chief Michael R. Hillmann. 

Chief Scott will serve as Undersheriff, Assistant Sheriff Anderson will head Administration, a new position; Assistant Sheriff James will head Jail Operations; Assistant Sheriff Davis will head Investigations; Executive Director Dostal will head Special Services and Assistant Sheriff Hillmann will head operations.   

The Administration section is a new one and Sheriff Hutchens said that in the coming weeks she may make further adjustments in the Department chain of command.

She added that both Undersheriff Scott and Assistant Sheriff Hillmann are both long time veterans of law enforcment and will be part of her transition team. Ultimately, she said, their positions will likely be filled but promotions from within the Department. 

Left to right: Assistant Sheriff Jack Anderson, Assistant Sheriff J.B. Davis, Undersheriff John Scott, Sheriff Sandra Hutchens, Assistant Sheriff Michael R. Hillmann, Executive Director Rick Dostal and Assistant Sheriff Mike James.

Here is some biographical information on the new Command Staff:  

Assistant Sheriff Mike James has more than 23 years in law enforcement experience with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. He has served as the Captain for the Support Services Division consisting of Records and Information Services, the Property / Evidence bureau and the Information Services bureau. From 1997-2005 he served as the Lieutenant for Lake Forest Police Services. Among other assignments, Chief James has experience working in the Theo Lacy Facility and Internal Investigations.

Assistant Sheriff Jack Anderson served as the Acting Sheriff from January 15 to June 10. Chief Anderson has over 24 years of law enforcement experience, including 21 years in the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. Chief Anderson has worked in Jail Operations, Training, Community Programs, Patrol, Professional Standards, and Investigations at the Joint Drug Intelligence Group-High Intensity Drug Task Force. Most recently, he served as the Sheriff’s Operations Commander. 

Assistant Sheriff J.B. Davis has nearly 27 years of experience in the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. Most recently, Chief Davis served as the Captain of the Central Jail Complex Division. Prior assignments include serving as the Chief of Police Services for the City of San Juan Capistrano where he also served as the Director of the Sheriff’s Explorer Post and Commander of the Emergency Communications Bureau. Chief Davis has experience working investigations, jails, vice and narcotics detail. 

Executive Director Rick Dostal has served as the Interim Executive Director of Special Services since March 2008. Prior to his temporary promotion, Rick served as the Director of Special Services, coordinating the department’s 5-Year Strategic Plan, developing the annual budget, overseeing purchasing, and developing agreements for law enforcement and security services. Rick has over 25 years experience working in the County CEO County of Orange. 

Assistant Sheriff Michael R. Hillmann has over 41 years of law enforcement experience with the Los Angeles Police Department. Most recently, Chief Hillmann served as the Deputy Chief of Police, overseeing the Incident Management & Training Bureau, West Bureau Operations and Special Operations. Among his various assignments, Chief Hillmann has experience in Air Support, Patrol, and SWAT. Serves as an Instructor and Lecturer, including lectures at USC on “Police Response to Hostage Situations”; and “Counter-Terrorist Incident Response and Management” for the United States Department of State, Anti-Terrorism Assistance Program. In 2002 Chief Hillmann served as a Security Planner for the Democratic National Convention 

Undersheriff John Scott has more than thirty-six years in law enforcement experience with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Prior to his retirement from the LASD, Undersheriff Scott served as the Division Chief of the Custody Operations Division commanding over 3,000 personnel, an average daily population of 22,000, and annual budget of $400 million. His past assignments include commanding patrol and detective services for the City of Carson and Unincorporated areas of LA County. Undersheriff John Scott also has experience in Labor Relations, Emergency Management, and Special Enforcement.  Former member of the State Board of Corrections.  

 

CRIME SURVIVORS, INC.

&

THE EXCHANGE CLUBS OF ORANGE COUNTY

March, 2008

Dear Friends and Supporters:

Crime Survivors, Inc. and The Exchange Clubs of Orange County are hosting the Annual "No Putting Around" Miniature Golf Tournament Fundraiser at Boomers located at 3405 Michelson Drive, Irvine, CA 92612 on July 27, 2008 from 1:00pm to 4:00pm. This year’s event will offer fun for individuals and the whole family with raffles at each hole and gift giveaways throughout the day. We encourage teams of four; at twenty-five dollars per person you will be having fun and helping raise funds for organizations that will help so many more. To become a SPONSOR OF THE EVENT, please choose from OPTIONS ATTACHED. There will be a raffle and gift giveaways throughout the day. To SPONSOR or to DONATE raffle items please call (949) 872-7895 to make arrangements.

We hereby state that donations will be used in relation to the tax exempt purpose of this organization under section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Crime Survivor, Inc. ID # 30-0229425

The mission of Crime Survivors is to ensure the public knows victims’ rights and needs and to provide resources, support, and information to empower crime victims to survive and thrive. Crime Survivors vision is for victims of crime to recover from their experience mentally, physically, emotionally, and financially, by receiving the respect, support, and protection from law enforcement, the judicial system, and the community.

Exchange, America's Service Club, is a group of men and women working together to make our communities better places to live through programs of service in Americanism, Community Service, Youth Activities, and our National Project, the Prevention of Child Abuse. The Exchange Club is a volunteer service organization for men and women who want to serve their communities in Orange County, to develop leadership skills, and to enjoy new friendships.

Please visit our websites at www.crimesurvivors.com and www.nationalexchangeclub.com

for additional information.

We thank you for your support. Proceeds from this fundraiser will benefit Exchange Clubs and Crime Survivors, Inc. programs. Please call with any questions or additional information at (949) 872-7895.

Sincerely,

Janet Wilson Irving

Event Chair

Crime Survivors, Inc.

The Exchange Clubs of Orange County

Event Co Chairs

PO BOX 54552 – Irvine, CA 92619-4552

Telephone: 949.872.7895 – Facsimile: 775.245.4798 – Email: crimesurvivors@aol.com

Website: http://www.crimesurvivors.com/

On Wednesday, July 23, 2008 at 2:00 p.m., Sheriff Sandra Hutchens will introduce the newly appointed Command Staff of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.

A press conference will take place at the Brad Gates Forensic Building located at 320 North Flower Street, 5th floor, Santa Ana.

The Command Staff will be present at the press conference and will be available to the media.

The American Red Cross
Invites you to join their efforts on saving lives.
Blood Drive
Wednesday July 23, 2008
7:30 AM to 7:30 PM
Please sign up to donate blood today!
To make your appointment please visit: http://www.givelife.org
Type in the Sponsor Code: OC1
(OR)
 E-mail at cdvincent@ocsd.org or call
 Curtis Vincent at 647-6046 to sign up
 IRC – BRIEFING ROOM 

All participants will receive 1 Ticket to KLOS Summer Concert
Donors will have the option to choose any of the concerts
Donors will come in and register, they will then fill out a sheet with their Name, Address and check mark the concert of their choice.  The American Red Cross will then mail out a voucher to each donor, the donor will then go to the concert show there voucher and I.D. and receive their free ticket.  Concert choices are as follows: (1) Crue Fest at the Glen Helen Pavilion on Saturday, August 2, 2008; (2) ZZ Top with Brooks and Dunn at Glen Helen Pavilion on Sunday, August 3, 2008; or (3) Metal Masters Tour featuring Judas Priest and Heaven and Hell at the Glen Helen Pavilion on Saturday, August 30, 2008.

***FREE T-shirt***
***In-house raffle for Gas Cards and other Prizes***
FIRST 30 DONORS TO PRE-REGISTER WILL RECEIVE A $1.00 SCRATCHER FROM CALIF. LOTTERY
***With Parent Permission children as young as 16 years old may donate***
 

MUST BRING PICTURE IDENTIFICATION

The "Beer Can Races" go back for half a century but the now crowded waterway no longer has space for 40 foot sailboats to race at top speed, according to the Department's Harbor Patrol.

The controversy over the race and the challenge it poses for Harbor Patrol was reported ina story in today's Los Angeles Times.

The story said in part: Sailboat racing in Newport Harbor is a beloved summer pastime that borders on obsession for some. But now that harbor police are stopping boats -- midrace -- to issue speeding citations, many longtime racers consider dropping out.

To read the whole story click here.

On May 8, 2008, Mr. Jim Noss wrote a letter commending Deputy Bryan Robins and Sheriff Special Officer Aaron Chamberlain, of the Theo Lacy Facility. Mr. Noss commended them for going the extra yard in helping him get a court order for a clothing exchange approved by the Watch Commander. During his wait, he observed SSO Chamberlain's interactions with the public, his fellow workers and other agencies. He said that SSO Chamberlain was very friendly and efficient at doing his job. He would like to congratulate Deputy Robins for his attention to detail and his logic in handling the situation. Mr. Noss states that Deputy Robins and SSO Chamberlain are great assets to this department.

Lieutenant Lee Trujillo of Stanton Police Services received a letter of thanks from a Stanton resident for the assistance she received from Stanton CSO Nick Rickers. The woman had been assisting her grandson who had received a traffic citation. They had been dealing with the citation and trying to get it resolved since March, when they finally came to the front counter at the Stanton Station where CSO Rickers assisted them. She stated that he made several phone calls, and "he kept us informed as to what was happening. He was pleasant; we were truly impressed with his patience and knowledge." Thank you to CSO Nick Rickers for being a true asset to the Orange County Sheriff's Department, and for your professional attitude and commitment to serving the residents of Orange County.

On July 10, 2008, the Support Services Division received a commendation email from detective Trooper Aimee Nolan of the Vermont State Police expressing her extreme gratitude regarding Records unit employee Blanche Hernandez. Blanche assisted the trooper with the procedures for submitting her request. Within one hour after receiving the request, Blanche not only faxed back a copy of our report, but she also provided the trooper with the arresting agencies information and the report numbers of their reports. Detective Trooper Nolan writes "Sometimes requesting information or assistance from agencies outside of Vermont can be very challenging; however, your department shattered that theory!" Thank you, Blanche, for being such a fine representative of the Support Services Division and the Orange County Sheriff's Department.

Lycos has a natural play drive and prey drive and both of these are sharpened by daily training with his partner Deputy Stephen Brown.  As a Department K-9 team they catch bad guys, find drugs, locate evidence and even mingle with school children when giving public demonstrations of their skills.

Lycos, a Groenendael  from Holland, is a 60 pound eight-year old certified Royal Dutch Police Dog. He and Deputy Stephen Brown have worked together for seven years.

Deputy Brown and Canine Lycos are just one of eight regular patrol canine teams assigned to Sheriff’s Department Operations.  five canine/handler teams are assigned to North Operations and three teams are assigned to South Operations.  The Reserve Unit also has two narcotics detection teams attached to the Canine Team as well. Both teams are used by South Operations.

The combined efforts of The Orange County Sheriff’s Department  Canine Team provides the department with almost twenty-four a day/seven days a week coverage which is greatly needed, considering the team is already up to 800 deployments for the year. The Sheriff’s Canines are tasked with three missions in the field:  suspect apprehension, narcotics detection and the recovery of evidence.

”Lycos will find evidence such as guns and knives contaminated with a suspect’s odor.”  Deputy Brown said, “His nose is sensitive enough to find a key inside of a good sized park.” Along with human odor Lycos can find the four major drug odors: marijuana, heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine and their derivatives. “No other tool is as versatile to law enforcement as canines are.”  Not only are the canines capable of apprehending criminals hiding on the street, they are social enough to regularly participate in public demonstrations at schools and Boy Scout meetings.  “Not every agency has canines as well rounded as the Sheriff’s Department.” More...

The press was given a rare look inside the Department's Forensic Science Lab on Wednesday. An Orange County Register Reporter and Photographer took the tour and published their findings in today's edition of the paper. For the online version, which includes 22 pictures of the lab and the presentation of the Lab's International Accreditation, click here.

 

PREPARING BLOOD SAMPLES: Orange County sheriff's crime lab forensics scientist Kari Sterling prepares blood samples to be tested for the presence of alcohol.

BRUCE CHAMBERS, THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER

Department Photographer Jerry Manson also took a series of photographs of the tour. More...

The American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors / Laboratory Accreditation Board (ASCLD/LAB) has completed an indepth audit of the Department Crime Lab and found that it worthy of accreditation.

The accreditation, the first in California for a full service Crime Lab under the latest International criteria, provides an independent review to help meet the quality assurance goals of the Department. It also helps establish creditablity for the lab when evidence is presented in court.

The accreditation, which cost the county about $22,000, is as requirement of eligibility for federal grant funding. The Department lab received more than $2 million in federala grant funding over the last two years. 

The Department Forensic Science Service Division has its own Website. To view it, click here.

To learn about the board that accredited the lab click here.

	SHERIFF-CORONER DEPARTMENTCOUNTY OF ORANGECALIFORNIA 550 NORTH FLOWER STREET – P.O. BOX 449SANTA ANA, CALIFORNIA 92702-0449(714) 647-7042
SANDRA HUTCHENS SHERIFF-CORONER		July 15, 2008
	PRESS  RELEASE

 

The Orange County Sheriff’s Department Crime Lab is now the first full service California crime laboratory to become accredited under the international standards of the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors / Laboratory Accreditation Board (ASCLD/LAB).   On July 16, 2008, ASCLD/LAB Chairman Frank Dolejsi will present Sheriff Sandra Hutchens with a certificate of accreditation at a ceremony to be held at the Brad Gates Forensic Science Center located at 320 N. Flower Street, Santa Ana, 5th Floor.  This ceremony will also mark the 60th anniversary of the Sheriff’s Department Crime Laboratory, which was founded in 1948.   The Sheriff Department’s Forensic Science Services Division is Orange County’s only accredited, full service law enforcement crime lab that provides crime scene investigation and laboratory examinations on evidence in all forensic disciplines, including fingerprints, DNA, toxicology and firearms to name a few. Their services are provided free to all law enforcement agencies within the county.  Following the ceremony, media will be invited to a 60th anniversary open house / tour of the Sheriff’s Crime Laboratory, in the following service areas: Toxicology, Trace Evidence, Firearms, Fingerprints, DNA and Crime Scene Investigation.  This tour will provide a rare opportunity for the media to obtain invaluable B-Roll and pictures that can also be used for future stories.    Accreditation is a voluntary program in which crime laboratories participate to demonstrate that its management, personnel, operational and technical procedures, equipment and physical facilities meet established standards.  This independent, impartial and objective review offers the general public and the criminal justice system confidence in the high quality work performed by the dedicated men and women of the Sheriff’s Crime Lab.  When:             Wednesday, July 16, 2008, 11:00 a.m. Where:            Brad Gates Forensics Building, 320 North Flower St, Santa Ana, 5th Floor   For more information contact Media Relations at (714) 647-7042.

                                                                         Authorized By:  Jim Amormino

The Orange County Board of Supervisors Presented a Resolution in honor of the Department's womens running team and thier first place victory in April's highly competitive Baker2Vegas run. Special thanks were give to the influence of the team's coach, Retired Lt. Darrell "Guy" Poncy, who died a few days before the race.

The Orange County Board of Supervisors today

 

In April, the Orange County Register did a feature story ont he team and its accomplishement. To read the story click here. 

Baker to Vegas Challenge Cup Relay 

By the authority of the Board of Supervisors, the following resolution is hereby issued: WHEREAS, in 1985, the Baker to Vegas Relay was formed by members of the Los Angeles Police Department, as a way to promote physical fitness amongst law enforcement.  The Orange County Sheriff’s Department began participating in 1987.  Initially, one team of male runners participated; and WHEREAS, in 2002, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department put together its first “Baker to Vegas” women’s running team.  The team consisted of twenty sworn female runners and two alternates.  They competed against nine other women’s teams, coming in third place.  Every successive year, they would tell themselves, “Next year, we will be better;” and WHEREAS, in 2007, the team was in first place with five miles left to go, but one of the runners suffered an injury and they ended up in third place.   After the 2007 race, team members were determined to maintain their conditioning and when January 2008 came around, they were ready to go straight into speed training with Coach Poncy; and WHEREAS, starting in February 2008, they met every Friday and Coach Poncy put them through grueling sprint workouts.  They conducted this structured sprint training for three months prior to qualifiers and everyone knocked minutes from their previous year qualifying times.  Some girls met on the weekends to train together and most runners ran on their own, four to six days a week; and WHEREAS, the 2008 race started at 2:30pm on Saturday, April 19th, and ended at 6:25am on Sunday, April 20th.  The Women’s Team had twenty runners, four alternates and ten volunteers. The teamwork was amazing to watch, as everyone on the team assisted in coordinating rides and cheering the runners out on the course, at all hours of the day and night; and WHEREAS, the death of Coach Poncy, just a few days before the race, was a shock and emotionally draining.  An email received from Coach Poncy on April 14, 2008, was forwarded to the team members on the morning of April 15th, prior to the knowledge of his death.  In the email, he explained how to prepare for the race, which included hydration, proper dress attire and stretching.  He also said that he would be out on the course to help them warm up; and WHEREAS, in light of the news of his death, the race seemed so unimportant, but the team came together and remembered how much he wanted them to win.  They all dug deep down inside and used their internal strength to stay focused and remember everything that Coach Poncy had taught them; and WHEREAS, on the day of the race, they told each other that Coach Poncy was with them and that he would give them the strength needed to push harder, and he did.  On April 20th 2008 at 0625 hours, the twentieth female runner crossed the finish line and the Orange County Sheriff’s Department Women’s Team won their very first Baker to Vegas race, for Coach Poncy. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS does hereby recognize the Orange County Sheriff’s Department Women’s Running Team for their excellence in the Baker to Vegas Challenge Cup Relay and congratulate them for bringing home the title of champions on behalf of the County of Orange and Coach Poncy.   Dated this 15th day of July, 2008

John M. W. Moorlach  
Chairman of the Board of Supervisors 
Supervisor, Second District

Patricia C. Bates   Janet Nguyen
Vice-Chair of the Board of Supervisors   Supervisor, First District
Supervisor, Fifth District

Bill Campbell   Chris Norby
Supervisor, Third District   Supervisor, Fourth District

 

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This just in from Harbor Patrol Dispatcher Brian Stanley

The boating public in Orange County will soon have an extra layer of security to rely upon in the event they need emergency police, fire or medical services.  Thanks to the diligent work of Lt. Colin Murphy, formerly of the Sheriff Department’s Emergency Communications Bureau, the State of California has recognized the Harbor Patrol dispatch center as a Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP).  As a PSAP, the Harbor Patrol has been given permission to install, and the state of California has agreed to pay for, a computerized phone system that will significantly enhance its ability to provide rapid emergency services to the citizens who rely on the Harbor Patrol for those services. 

When a citizen in Orange County calls 911 from a standard landline phone or cellular phone their call is routed to the police department having jurisdiction over that area.  When that call is answered by the emergency dispatcher, data is received on the dispatcher’s computer screen that indicates the caller’s address and phone number.  When the caller is using a cellular phone the data received indicates the caller’s phone number, cellular service provider, and the address of the cell tower receiving and relaying the call.  Additionally, by using global positioning satellite technology, the dispatcher receives the approximate lat/long location of the cell phone.  [more[

Prior to the installation of the enhanced 911 system, the Harbor Patrol dispatchers have used a standard landline to receive emergency and non-emergency calls for service.  When a 911 call was transferred into the Harbor Patrol dispatch center by the receiving police department all data was lost.  Often a caller in the middle of an emergency situation is too scared, irate or uncertain to give the emergency dispatcher pertinent information such as their location or phone number.  If a call was lost or dropped prior to obtaining a phone number, the dispatcher wasn’t even able to attempt a call back.  
Another feature of the enhanced 911 system is the ability for the dispatcher to transfer and conference phone calls.  This will make it easier for information to be relayed to multiple public safety agencies at the same time, eliminating confusion and saving valuable time.

The enhanced 911 system the will be a valuable tool for the Orange County Sheriff’s Department Harbor Patrol dispatchers and will allow the Harbor Patrol to provide the same level of public safety services to its citizens as all the other PSAP centers in Orange County. 

The Orange County Sheriff's Harbor Patrol Division provides law enforcement, marine/residential firefighting, open-water rescue and vessel assistance in the three Orange County harbors of Sunset/Huntington Harbor, Newport Harbor, and Dana Point Harbor, as well as the 48 miles of Orange County Coastline.