On September 11, 2009, we received a handwritten letter from a Ms. Emily P. of Mission Viejo. Her letter states:

"Dear Police Officers! My name is Emily P. I am going to second grade. I wanted to say thank you for protecting our homes."

Anna MacKenzie from American Airlines wrote a letter of commendation for the following Airport Operations Division members:

Sergeant Dave Manley, Deputy Lionel Luna, Deputy Scott Vanover, Deputy Richard Leonard, Sheriff's Special Officer Dan Truong and Sheriff's Special Officer Charles Volkel. MacKenzie wrote: "I would like to thank the members of the Airport Operations Division who donated their time to help make Operation Snowflake a success and a lasting memory for our Snowball Express families!

The picnic will now be a yearly event, so we can continue to honor and bring some joy to the surviving spouses and children of our fallen U.S. military personnel. Snowball Express is the charity for the children of our fallen military heroes. We started in 2006 with a simple idea: Provide hope and new memories to the children of our fallen military heroes who died while on active duty since September 11, 2001. As a Nation, we are blessed. We owe it to these children to do something special and nothing is better than meeting someone who is just like you."

CSO Carrie Murray of San Clemente Police Services received a letter of thanks from Alyssa B. for returning her lost camera.

Miss B. said she spent over $1,000 of her babysitting money for her camera and it is one of the most important things in the world to her. She inadvertently left the camera on the beach and was excited to find out CSO Murray found the camera and returned it to her.

Miss B. said, "Your honesty means a huge amount to me and I think that life will reward you for that eventually."

Lieutenant Paul D'Auria of San Clemente Police Services received a phone call from Don H. of Sea Pointe Estates. Mr. H. called to commend Deputy Sherri Gilman for the manner in which she handled a call at his residence last month. Mr. H. said he had arrived home late one evening from a trip out of state. He was exhausted and left his vehicle parked outside, leaving the doors unlocked. The vehicle was ransacked later that evening and Deputy Gilman responded to take the report. Mr. H. said Deputy Gilman was very professional and helpful and feels she is a real asset to the Orange County Sheriff's Department and San Clemente Police Services.

Lynn Woods from the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce recently sent a letter of commendation and appreciation to Sergeant Nancy Gafner of San Clemente Police Services for her work in making the annual Street Fiesta a success. This event attracts over 40,000 people and with Sgt. Gafner organizing and preparing the security for the event, the Fiesta was a safe, family-friendly event for all attendees. Ms. Wood wrote, "I have worked with San Clemente Police Services on many Chamber of Commerce events, however the Fiesta is a major event that needs the strong direction of a law enforcement leader. Sgt. Gafner is that leader and without her direction, this event could not continue to be as successful as it has been since she has coordinated the law enforcement services."

Office Technician Leo Figueroa of Airport Operations Division received a letter of commendation from passenger Terri K., who is a teacher for Odessa High School in Washington. K. wrote: "While returning home with 16 students, one of the student's laptops was left behind. I contacted the Sheriff's Lost and Found and was relieved to find out the laptop was safe. Because of Leo's help, the laptop arrived in perfect condition!"

On September 3, 2009, Kristin Kvesic from the Orange County Food Bank wrote a letter thanking the Airport Operations Division for a recent food donation. Kvesic wrote: "Because of your efforts, we collected over 114 pounds of much needed food for the County Food Bank. We would like to thank Sheriff's Special Officer Sterling Young for delivering the food to us and to all of those who participated in the food drive. Many will benefit from your generosity!"

Gynnae and Ryan Scheffilea came to Sheriff's Headquarters today bearing platters of sandwiches, cookies and cake and more wishes of thanks than could fit on the Department Website.

The mother and son were international news last July 4 weekend, when she was shot and he was kidnapped and the subsequent Amber Alert sent every investigator and deputy who could be spared on the search. It ended with Gynnae's recovery and Ryan's safe return.

Ryan after his safe return last year

Today they were accompanied by relatives and they brought a few letters, some they wrote and some were written by friends.

To see Department Blog story on Ryan's safe recovery last year click here:

To see the letter that Ryan wrote to the Department click: Ryan's letter Scan001a.pdf (56.38 kb)

To see Gynnae's letter click: gynnae Scan001.pdf (40.13 kb)

To see a letter from friends click: Friend Letter a.pdf (37.58 kb)

To see the Medal of Merit Commendation to those most responsible for safe return of Ryan click:  medal of merit.pdf (295.01 kb)

In a recent letter to Rancho Santa Margarita Chief of Police Services Lieutenant Chuck Wilmot, resident Christine Belmonte complimented Deputy Doris Rodriguez' actions during a call involving vehicle vandalism. Ms. Belmonte wrote in part: "While outside my residence discussing my complaint, another incident occurred involving someone speeding past and shouting obscenities. Deputy Rodriguez was in her patrol car before I knew what was happening.  She pursued the speeding vehicle, tracked the subject down and then returned to make sure I felt she attended to my complaint. Deputy Rodriguez' acute awareness of her surroundings, quick thinking and decisive actions reassured me that there really is someone out there who is concerned and will take action!"

On March 7, 2009, Captain Ron White of the South Operations Division received a letter from Ronald Ooley and Suzanne Shirley, commending Investigator Ted Harris and Investigator Chad Kajfasz of the South Investigations Detail. Ooley and Shirley praised Investigators Harris and Kajfasz for their professionalism, thoroughness and courtesy while handling a stolen property investigation.

Ooley and Shirley said, "Investigator Harris and Investigator Kajasz ascertained exactly what happened and collected written documentation and pictures. With this information they were able to find the perpetrator(s) and recover most of the property. All of the Investigators were remarkable! They were courteous, efficient and extremely helpful."

Sheriff's Special Officer Harmon Ward of the Airport Operations Division received a commendation from passenger Carolyn Rawski. On April 2, 2009, Rawski was on a flight to Denver when she realized her driver's license was missing. She called Airport Police Services and spoke to Officer Ward who advised that her license had been found and they were going to mail it to her. Rawski wrote: "I was comforted by Officer Ward, knowing I would have my license waiting for me when I returned home. The John Wayne Airport Police were great partners in helping me avoid a real nerve rattler and I am very grateful. God bless you all!"

On April 15, 2009, Sergeant Mike McHenry of the South Operations Investigation Detail received a telephone call from Paula Adams, a resident of Lake Forest, commending Investigator Jared Dahl of Lake Forest Police Services. Adams praised Investigator Dahl's professionalism regarding a criminal threats investigation he handled. Adams said, "He has helped me tremendously. He guided me through every step and I just wanted to let you know; I appreciate his effort. Your Investigator Dahl is a wonderful person."

On April 21, 2009, Sergeant C. Dennsion received a telephone call from John Kaplan, a resident in the unincorporated area of South Orange County, commending Deputy Mike Duda. John praised Deputy Duda's handling of a relative with some emotional and mental health issues. Deputy Duda spent about a half hour speaking with the relative and trying to help them with their situation. John used words such as "Phenomenal" and "Truly Great" to describe Deputy Duda. John wanted us to know how impressed and appreciative he was of Deputy Duda's performance.

Recently Sheriff's Special Officer Miguel Rodriguez of Airport Operations received a commendation from Legal Processing Specialist Victoria Aguilar, who works at the North Justice Center Traffic Division. On May 1, 2009, Officer Rodriguez was filling in at the court and was asked to assist with the long line of people waiting to check in at the traffic window. People were upset about the extended wait time and Officer Rodriguez calmed them down by offering information and collecting citations that were eligible for extensions. Aguilar wrote: "I believe people appreciated that he was trying to help them which made a difference. I would like to express how much I appreciate the Officers at the Traffic Weapon's Screening area. They are always friendly and helpful."

Teacher Kerry Yuhasz's 6th grade class at Capistrano Valley School have adopted Sheriff Hutchens and the Sheriff's Department and will offer a prayer each day for her and the Department.

"We consider it a privilege to have "adopted" you this year as our special community leader," Mrs. Yuhasz said in a letter to the Sheriff.

"Our class knows what a tremendous job you have, and as Orange County citizens, we want you to know that we appreciate all you do to protect our communities."

The Blog will feature letters from the class from time to time.

Student Jessica Knappe said in her letter:

"I thank you on behalf of my class for protecting us. It is very nice of you and your fellow policemen. I thank God everyday about having someone to protect us. Without you and your co-workers this would be a very dangerous place."  

My family and I would like to express our most sincere appreciation to the department for the support shown to us during the past year. 

We were facing an extremely difficult time in our lives and thanks to those who donated hours, sent emails, made timely telephone calls and above all prayed for us. Your assistance was instrumental in helping to get through. 

As some of you know, I have been back to work for over a month now.  Although I have not yet finished with all of my procedures, my health is improving and I am glad to be back at work amongst friends.  

There are no words that can begin to describe our gratefulness for all the things you have done. 

Because of your extreme generosity, I was able to stay at home while I was going through Chemo Therapy treatment and various surgical procedures.  The cards that were sent, the outpouring of love and concern that was shown to our family were emotionally overwhelming.  It made us realize the people who work for this department are truly like a second family.  Everything you have done was and is greatly appreciated.

Once again, thank you very much for all of the love and support you have given us.

Sincerely,

Maria Harrell and family                        

The Department has received numerous letters in recent weeks commending our staff. Here is a sampling:

Lieutenant T. Gallivan received a letter from Mayor James Rheins of Villa Park. The letter commended Investigators Kris Kiltz and Pam Colver for their outstanding investigation during a burglary in his city. Mayor Rheins wrote, "Investigators Kiltz and Colver followed several leads, contacted witnesses and suspected involved parties, ultimately leading to the arrests of two adult suspects. It is important to me that the Orange County Sheriff's Department, Lt. Tom Gallivan, Investigators Kiltz and Colver and all the other participants in this investigation know how much we appreciate their sense of duty and commitment to the assistance of our city."

Detective Lewis of the Huntington Beach Police Department wrote a letter of appreciation for Deputy Rick Johnson and his K9 partner Rex (aka "The Wonder Dog"). Detective Lewis conveyed, "I worked with Deputy Johnson and his K-9 while we searched for evidence in a home invasion robbery in our city. His K-9 located a gun hidden in the bushes approximately 300 yards away from the scene and the victim's wallet in another set of bushes another 100 yards from that. It was awesome to watch the dog work. In a second incident, Johnson and Rex responded to a residential burglary in progress and helped officers search the area for the suspect. Deputy Johnson is always a pleasure to work with. He is professional and personable."

On March 25, 2009, Deputy District Attorney Peter Finnerty of the Orange County District Attorney's office sent a commendation for Senior Forensic Scientist Jennifer Harmon. Peter thanked Jennifer for her aid during a difficult, alcohol-related case involving multiple felony counts. Two men were drinking alcohol during an afternoon and evening, when one of the men stabbed the other after an argument. The blood alcohol levels presented by the defense expert (a Harvard-trained medical doctor) were challenged and became a core issue in the case. With very short notice, Jennifer was able to provide testimony and expertise that countered and balanced apparent mistakes by the defense expert. Jennifer answered questions in an honest and straightforward manner and displayed an air of professionalism that gave enormous credibility with the jury. Peter commended Jennifer as a true professional and a huge asset to the OCSD Crime Lab.

On April 7th Sheriff Hutchens received a letter of commendation from Mr. Don Martin for Deputy Steven Armand. The letter stated in part: "We want to thank you and your department for your assistance in recovering our lost dinghy on April 5th. Deputy Armand was our point of contact and he was most helpful and courteous. He went out of his way to assist us and we are deeply appreciative."

Sheriff's Special Officer Charlie Volkel of the Airport Operations Division received a commendation from Lieutenant Kanehailua of the Honolulu Police. Lt. Kanehailua and his family were returning home from their vacation and his young daughter lost a scarf from Disneyland that she had purchased with her own money. Officer Volkel was able to locate the scarf at the airport and shipped the scarf back to the family. Lt. Kanehailua wrote: "I would like to thank Officer Volkel for going out of his way to locate and send us my daughter's scarf. She purchased it with her own money and wore it the whole time we were on vacation. My daughter will make sure she is more careful in the future."

Lieutenant Michael Mullen of the Airport Operations Division received a commendation from Debbie Simpson, Team Manager of the Trauma Intervention Program. On March 21, 2009, a deceased male was located in a parking structure at the airport. Even though the brother and sister of the deceased were at the scene, it was determined that it might be best if Lt. Mullen and TIP volunteers made the death notification to his wife and 7 and 10 year old children. Debbie Simpson wrote: "Lt. Mullen provided the death notification, using both professionalism and sensitivity. Throughout his contact with the family members, he offered solace and emotional support. He stayed with the family until he was satisfied that he had provided all that he could. TIP volunteers also noted the professionalism and support given by Deputy Cecil Sellers and Sheriff's Special Officer Jamie Lim at the scene. We always appreciate the professional and caring way the Sheriff's Department members conduct themselves in some of the worst situations families encounter."

Sima Nassiri received a letter from Investigative Analyst Teresa Arnold, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives of Santa Ana. The letter commended Tina Winterburn for her outstanding help on the CLETS system. Teresa Arnold wrote, "I'm writing to you to commend your team member Tina Winterburn. I would like to extend my thanks to your employee for all the help over the last few weeks. When I needed CLETS information from her, I always got it sooner than I expected. Her hospitality was performed with encouragement and warmth before my CLETS audit. She was endlessly patient in explaining the CLETS paperwork. Her ability to reach out and put herself in someone else's shoes is a wonderful reflection of your organization."

Fifth grader Shane DuCharme was on his way to Foothill Ranch Elementary School in Lake Forest one day last year when he found an envelope with a large amount of money inside.

There are some who would have kept the money but Shane is a good boy and he strongly believes in doing what is right. He took the envelope to school and turned it in to his teacher, who in turn called the Sheriff's Department where it was logged as found property. Nobody claimed the money and there was no clue as to who had lost it. After 90 days the money was due to be returned to Shane.

Eric Keating, Shane DuCharme and Lieutenant Don Barnes with Shane's new Apple 

Lieutenant Don Barnes, Chief of Lake Forest Police Services, was so impressed with the Shane's honesty that he put together a little ceremony to turn the money over to Shane. Lieutenant Barnes asked Shane what he planned to do with the money and he was quick to respond: He wanted an Apple laptop computer.

Well, Shane had found a good deal of money, but not enough for an Apple computer. Lieutenant Barnes wanted to help the youngster get the Apple computer he deserved so he called Eric Keating, a personal friend and Vice President of Services for Sarcom, an Irvine company that provides computer services to firms nationwide.

Sarcom had an Apple Computer just like the one young Shane wanted, and was so impressed with Shane's honesty and character that Sarcom was willing to significantly discount the computer.

Marilyn MacDougall, Director of Community Programs, heard about Shane and his story. Marilyn shared the story with Michael Sweig of the Sheriff’s Advisory Council, who made a personal donation to help Shane bridge the gap and purchase the Apple laptop he dreamed of. “My Dad was so excited he said that he would like to trade laptops because he has an HP,” Shane said in a thank you letter to Mr. Sweig. “I said, ‘No Way.’” The ever-enterprising Shane went to the Medal of Valor Luncheon last week to deliver his Thank You letter to Mr. Sweig. Jim DuCharme, Shane's father, told Lieutenant Barnes that Shane was so impressed with the ceremony and the stories of heroism that he now talks of wanting to become a Sheriff's Deputy when he grows up. His interests? SWAT, of course.

Congratulation's to Shane, and to his parents Tina and Jim, for his integrity and honesty. You made us proud.

To see Shane's Thank You letter to Michael Sweig click: Shane1 Letter.pdf (88.11 kb)

It was 11 months ago that the Orange County Register did a story on evictions and one part of the series focused on the professionalism exhibited by the Deputy Ramona Figueroa. Deputy Figueroa is still working evictions and her professionalism is better than ever. Her sergeant just received a letter from lawyer Susan M. Thom praising Deputy Figueroa.

"Deputy Figueroa deserved to be commended for providing outstanding service while conducting this lockout. She had great command presence," said lawyer Thom. "Deputy Figueroa made a very positive impression upon our client and he is not an easy person to impress."

To see the letter click: Deputy Figueroa.pdf (24.39 kb)

To read the Orange County Register story from last year, which includes a video of Deputy Figueroa enforcing an evicition click here.

Rancho Santa Margarita (RSM) Police Services Deputy Robert Thompson received a thank you letter from RSM resident Esmeralda Marquez for his thoughtfulness after he took a theft report from her residence during October 2008. Mrs. Marquez explained that her garage was broken into and all her children's Christmas gifts were taken. Her letter reads in part, "Needless to say this was devastating for us. Being a single mother of two and with today's economy, times are difficult. My kids were sad (they knew their gifts were in the garage) and they understood that I was not going to be able to replace their gifts. We were lucky to have you as the officer who responded to my call. Even though our belongings were not recovered, two months later my children received a police car, one for each. Both my kids and I are extremely thankful for your thoughtfulness. They had a gift for Christmas!"

 On January 3, 2009, Lieutenant J Passalaqua received a letter of commendation for Deputy Ryan Root. Mrs. Lyn Townsend wrote, "On February 1, 2009, I met a wonderful representative for the Sheriff's Department. His name is R. Root." Deputy Root had arrived when Mrs. Townsend's husband had passed away from natural causes. She stated Sheriff Root was very professional. He explained everything that had to be done and made sure I understood. He is a very caring and understanding person. I wish to thank him for being there for me and my family.

Sheriff's Special Officer Ernesto Ochoa of Airport Operations received a commendation from Deputy Airport Director Scott Hagen and Captain Dennis DeMaio. On October 23, 2008, an intoxicated female drove her vehicle through a perimeter fence, across both runways and headed toward the ramp where the commercial aircraft were parked. Officer Ochoa was on foot and attempted to intercept the vehicle by running alongside the car and ordering the driver to stop. After several repeated verbal commands to get the driver to stop, Officer Ochoa realized the severity of the situation and drew his duty weapon at which time the driver complied.

Scott Hagen wrote, "Officer Ochoa's awareness and decisive actions prevented what could have easily become a dangerous and damaging situation. Officer Ochoa displayed quick thinking, restraint and discipline while dealing with this potentially threatening situation."

A recent letter received from a Colorado woman thanked Airport Operations Training Deputy Lionel Luna for helping her daughter. In her words, this is some of what she had to say:

He saved the day.

He was better than Santa

He saved Christmas for my little girl

To see the entire letter click: Thank you Deputy Luna001 (2).pdf (29.63 kb)

The following commendation was submitted by Yorba Linda resident Joanne Stone on Tuesday, November 18, 2008:

"I was one of the fortunate people whose home was spared in the horrific fire over this past weekend. Unfortunately, my neighbors up
the street from me on Juniper were not so lucky. I just want to send along sincere thanks to your department and your deputies for
helping our neighborhood and community through such a tragic, frightening time. Unfortunately, we were not able to thank your deputies
in person since we were evacuated, but please pass along our thanks to all of those deputies who worked so long and hard for our benefit.
Words cannot express our gratitude."

On December 4, 2008, Teresa Roach of Support Services Division received an email from Mr. Jim Hamersley, Chief Information
Officer of Kings County Government Center, Information Technology Department, thanking her for the professional service she
provided. The email from Mr. Hamersley stated:

"We appreciate you taking time out of your busy day to show Kings County IT, Sheriff, Hanford PD and Corcoran PD the Geospatial
product in production. We were all very impressed with your professionalism - knowledge, the Orange County centralized dispatch and
vision of the Orange County Sheriff's Department - Emergency Operation Center. It is always appreciated when other agencies share
their operational products and processes. We share the same idea about the patrol computers mounting units, etc... If you are ever in the
area of Kings County, please let me know, I would be happy to give you a tour and buy lunch. Again, thank you for your time and making
us feel welcome."

On December 1, 2008, Lieutenant E. Giudice received a letter of commendation from Captain Tom Gazsi, the Support Services Division Commander of Newport Beach Police Department.  The letter commended Harbor Patrol deputies Carlos Contreras and Kathy McBride for their assistance with a vintage fishing vessel moored in Newport Harbor. 

The letter stated:

“I want to extend a grateful thanks to Deputies Contreras and McBride for their thoughtful hospitality in transporting a few volunteers out and back to the vessel.  Please know that they were very professional and considerate.  Deputy Contreras was alone when he dropped us at the boat early in the day.  He made a number of “seasoned” suggestions that were remarkably helpful in making the repairs.  He even provided us with bottles of drinking water to help us through the work.  You have an exceptional group of professionals who I am honored to call colleagues in our profession.” 

Here are some kudos for field work others appreciated.

On November 21, 2008 Lieutenant Linda Solorza of Laguna Niguel Police Services received a letter from Sergeant Dave Sawyer of the Special Investigations Bureau commending Deputy Ross Caouette.   Sergeant Sawyer praised Ross for his actions on November 17, 2008. Sawyer received a call from Ross, saying he had stopped a vehicle in the City of Laguna Niguel with about (8) pounds of marijuana.  Ross went on to explain how he had developed information from a citizen informant regarding suspicious activity within a neighborhood in the City.  Ross took the initiative to watch the residence, make a stop and arrest, then notify the supervisor of the narcotic detail of his find.

Based solely on the observations and heads-up work by Ross, we were able to obtain a search warrant for the residence.  The search revealed almost (40) pounds of high-grade marijuana, (22) grams of cocaine and over $76,000.  We estimate the value of the marijuana alone to be in excess of $150,000.

During the preparation of the search warrant and subsequent search of the residence, Ross assisted with the detention of suspects, collection of evidence and preparation of required documents.  We recognized that he did not just sit around and watch us work.  Ross took the initiative and volunteered to help with many aspects of the investigation.

Sergeant Sawyer recognizes and appreciates all of Ross’s his hard work, dedication and ability to take an investigation to the next level.  He should be commended for his outstanding efforts and abilities.

On December 2, 2008 Lieutenant Linda Solorza of Laguna Niguel Police Services received a letter from Investigator Tracy Morris of the Criminal Investigations Bureau commending Deputy Miguel Sotelo.  Investigator Morris praised Deputy Sotelo for his actions on December 2, 2008 while working uniformed patrol in Laguna Niguel.  He came upon suspect who was recently arrested for having sexual activity with a 16-year old parked on a street in Laguna Niguel.  Through his interview Deputy Sotelo learned that the suspect was text messaging someone.  Deputy Sotelo dug further, conducted a records check and learned there was a restraining order prohibiting suspect from contacting the 16- year old victim.  Deputy Sotelo recognized the victim lived down the street from where the suspect was parked.  Deputy Sotelo went even further and contacted the victim. Ultimately the victim admitted the suspect had been text messaging her and she had even met him in person on two separate occasions.  Based on the information Deputy Sotelo received, the suspect was arrested for violating a court order.
 
Investigator Morris would like to commend the investigative efforts put forth by Deputy Sotelo of Laguna Niguel Police Services. Deputy Sotelo went above and beyond a normal occupied vehicle encounter.  As a result of his tenacity the suspect is again in custody, the victim is protected and supects’s bail was increased from hundred thousand dollars to five hundred thousand.  Deputy Sotelo is a credit to the City of Laguna Niguel and the Sheriff’s Department. 

On December 1, 2008, Lieutenant E. Giudice received a letter of commendation from Captain Tom Gazsi, the Support Services Division Commander of Newport Beach Police Department.  The letter commended Harbor Patrol deputies Carlos Contreras and Kathy McBride for their assistance with a vintage fishing vessel moored in Newport Harbor.  The letter stated:
“I want to extend a grateful thanks to Deputies Contreras and McBride for their thoughtful hospitality in transporting a few volunteers out and back to the vessel.  Please know that they were very professional and considerate.  Deputy Contreras was alone when he dropped us at the boat early in the day.  He made a number of “seasoned” suggestions that were remarkably helpful in making the repairs.  He even provided us with bottles of drinking water to help us through the work.  You have an exceptional group of professionals who I am honored to call colleagues in our profession.” 
 

The Marine Operations Bureau recently received a “Thank You” card from the Orange County and Inland Empire Chapter of the Make-A-Wish Foundation.  The card stated:
“On behalf of our Chapter, we’d like to thank you for all your effort and support to our wish kids and helping us make a difference in their lives.  But most of all, we appreciate your dedication which enables our kids to believe that wishes really do come true.  We wish each of you and your families a Happy Thanksgiving.”

Good police work by Department investigators led to the arrest of three in connection with string of Casino follow home holdups.

The work was applauded by Mission Viejo Mayor Trish Kelley who had this to say about the case:

Wow! This is very impressive work on the part of our OCSD staff! I am thankful for their professionalism, resourcefulness and diligence in tracking down these dangerous robbers. You all do such a great job of keeping us safe. Please pass along my thanks.

The Department issued this statement about the case:

On October 24, 2008 at approximately 3:45 am, a couple from Mission Viejo, was followed home from the Hustler Casino in Gardena where they had been gambling.  As they were approaching their apartment, an African American male and a Hispanic male both in their twenties wearing dark clothing confronted them.  The suspects demanded their money and used physical force to remove both their wallets and purse. The loss was cash, a cell phone, camera and black Coach purse; the suspects left in an unknown vehicle. Orange County Sheriff’s Department Investigators went to the Hustler Casino and reviewed the surveillance tape and observed a suspect vehicle following the victims as they left the parking lot.  There were no other suspect leads.

Hustler Casino Security informed Investigators that they had several follow home robberies in the past month and provided the Orange County Sheriff’s Department with the agencies’ names and report numbers.  Investigators contacted each agency and obtained copies of their reports in attempt to establish a pattern.  Investigators then met with the Department of Justice (DOJ) Bureau of Gambling control and gathered additional information and surveillance photos regarding these incidences.

The previous follow-home robberies are as follows:
• September 15, 2008 at 10:55 pm in Torrance.
• October 10, 2008 at 4:00 am in Redondo Beach.
• October 18, 2008 at 4:00 am in Los Angeles.
• November 7, 2008 in Hawthorne. 
• November 15, 2008 in Hawthorne. 

Department of Justice, Bureau of Gambling Control, provided investigators with surveillance photos from the Commerce Casino.  The photos showed the exact same suspect vehicle, following the victim from the Hustler Casino as the Mission Viejo case.
 
On November 30, 2008 at 2:15 am, three African American males followed a 66-year-old male victim home from the Commerce Casino to his residence in Lake Forest.  The suspects pointed a gun at the victim and demanded his money.  The victim refused to give them his money and the suspect proceeded to give him directions to turn around and get on his knees, while pointing the gun at him.  Fearing that he would be shot in the back, the victim ran away and dropped his money.  The suspects then picked up the money and fled the area.  The victim did not see a suspect vehicle.
 
Orange County Sheriff’s Department Investigators were able to make an identification of the vehicle’s license plate from the toll road photos.  The suspect was identified as John Atkins (12-31-86).  Atkins is currently active in the US Army and resides in Barstow.
Orange County Investigators along with DOJ conducted a weeklong surveillance of the suspect’s activity and was able to identify several other subjects involved.

On Saturday December 6, 2008, Atkins and his crime partners were observed targeting a victim at the Commerce Casino and proceeded to follow the victim to his residence in the Hollywood area of Los Angeles.  Orange County Investigators coordinated with patrol units from the Los Angeles Police Department and conducted a high-risk investigative stop on the suspects. The suspects in the vehicle were Jonathon Atkins and his cousins, Raymond Little Jr. (7/31/90) and Gary Smith (3/30/88).  All suspects were all arrested at 12:57 am for Robbery and Conspiracy to commit Robbery.  A search of the vehicle revealed a replica handgun resembling a Glock pistol, a ballistic vest and a load bearing vest.

Later that day, several members of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department conducted search warrants on all three suspects’ residences.  No additional arrests were made; however, the investigation is still ongoing.

No photos will be released at this time, as other victims still need to be re-contacted and shown photographic line ups.

Investigation was conducted by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department South Investigations. Case Agents Investigator Jared Dahl and Vanessa Anderson, coordinated the case with the assistance of 15 other investigators, Gang Unit, SWAT and Directed Enforcement Team.  They also used the assistance of Department of Justice Bureau of gambling Control, Warren Sorensen and John Park and several of their agents.

If you have any additional information or you have been victimized, please call 714-628-7170.

On July 16 at 11 minutes past midnight, Deputy Joe Allemand and Deputy Robert Witteman were working together as the Special Enforcement Team and spotted a suspicious vehicle in the north commercial area of Laguna Hills. Allemand and Witteman contacted the suspect, wearing a hardhat, and asked him what he was doing. The suspect was unable to tell a convincing story for why he was there so Deputies Allemand and Witteman further investigated. The Deputies located the suspect’s vehicle and discovered 41 brass fire sprinkler regulators in the bed area of the truck. The total value of the sprinklers was $80,000 dollars. The suspect/miner was booked into the jail. It was later determined several of the regulators were stolen from businesses in the City of Irvine. Both Allemand and Witteman were honored by the Irvine Police Department for their efforts.

Excerpted from the letter to Sheriff Sandra Hutchens from the Irvine Chief of Police David Maggard;
On the afternoon of October 28, 2008, Deputy (Shannon) Meier stopped a motorist who was not displaying license plates. Upon investigation, he learned the driver was on probation, searched the vehicle and located several catalytic converters and tools including a reciprocating saw. While Meier reasoned the converters were likely stolen, it was not immediately clear from which jurisdiction they were stolen. Maggard wrote, “Demonstrating outstanding follow-through and tenacity, he called the Irvine Police Department and learned that we were in the process of investigating several reported thefts of catalytic converters.” Meier coordinated his efforts with officers from Irvine P.D. and they were able to match four of the converters to four victim vehicles in the City of Irvine. Subsequently, the driver and his passenger were arrested and booked into the Orange County Jail.

The kidnapping of Ryan Ramos and the shooting of his mother Gynnae Schiffilea set off one of the largest Department responses in recent years. 

Mother and son are working hard to get past their ordeal and Gynnae Schiffilea sent a letter to Sheriff Hutchens thanking the Department for their support and a bicycle that was donated to young Ryan by friends of the Department. 

Dear Sheriff Hutchens

Ryan and I want to thank your department for the cool bicycle and helmet. Ryan absolutely loves it and his friends this it is really "cool." I am sorry this thank you is so late in gettng to you, but believe me it is no less sincere. Thank you for thinking of Ryan and for such a generous gift. I also want to thank you and your team for all you did during such an unimaginable time.

I never thought I would ever be in a position to where I would need your help but I did and I can't thank you enough for everything you did for me and my family.  Tim Board, Wendy Davis, Officer Wert, Jim Amormino, and everyone involved was so kind, caring, and gave us so much hope during he worst time of my life. Thank you so much!

Thank you for getting Ryan back safely, for authorizing the flight and the manpower to do so and having your entire department on our case.  It was well worth it and I can't express how much my family and I appreciate it! Thank you! Thanks you! Thank you!

Ryan and I are getting back to living a normal life and putting this all behind us. Even though we won't be seeing you so much, please know you'll always be in my prayers. Please be safe out there and again thank you for everything.

Thanks again,

Gyanne Schiffilea 

The California Emergency Services Association has awarded a Certificate of Special Recognition to the Citizen Emergency Preparedness Academy run by Department Director of Crime Preventions Programs Jan Sener.  

The certificate said in part: The academy is coordinated fully through the Neighborhood Watch Program. Neighbors are encouraged o create a plan with the understanding that after a disaster there will be a strain on the resources of emergency services. Depending on the severity of the diaster, this can result in little or no available assistance from emergency services for an extended period of time. Emergency service agencies previously recommended preparation to exist for a minimum of 3 days without outside assistance. In the aftermath of Katrina, their recommendations have increased to 2 weeks and include a plan that allows them to function independently and effectively.

For the letter and certificate click here: cesa letter.pdf (116.46 kb)

A squad of Orange County Sheriff's Department Explorers carried the U.S. and California State Flags at the Pakistani Independence Day Celebration at Exposition Park in Los Angeles. The Event organizers called it a rare show of unity, faith and discipline in the ranks Pakistani-American community.

The Explorers at the event were Alex Wong, Yanira Rojo, John Leahy, and Sebastian Marin. 

Assistant Sheriff Mike James attended on behalf of Sheriff Sandra Hutchens.

Pakistani-Link ran and article on the event. The article is at the bottom of the front page and headlined:

Vivid Manifestations of

Unity, Faith and Discipline

On the second page there is a series of pictures, those carrying the American and California flags are Department Explorers.

To see the article click: PakistanLink-August152008-Pages12627.pdf (952.68 kb)

One of the event organizers sent a Thank You note to the Department. It said:

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."

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.

Calltaker Jennifer Demers of Dispatch received a letter of commendation from Leonard Atencio, a teacher with the Birney Elementary School in Pico Rivera. Mr. Atencio was impressed with Calltaker Demers' professionalism and her willingness to extend herself beyond her duties. Mr. Atencio wrote:

"On Friday May 23, 2008, I and two of my colleagues took our seventy three fifth grade students on a field trip to Sunset Beach. We were completing our visit to the Bolsa Chica Wetlands Conservancy with a planned beach cleanup. Halfway along the beach our kids encountered a dead seal, apparently mutilated or attacked and newly washed ashore. Our group continued on with the cleanup while I attempted to inform an agency about the seal. Unfortunately, there were no lifeguards on duty.

After calling a couple of numbers given to me by a resident I was put in contact with a young lady named Jennifer at the Orange County Sheriff's Department. She transferred my call to a number which was no longer in service. After the second time, Jennifer took the initiative and setup a conference call with me while she attempted, over the next 45 minutes, to find an agency willing to take the information I was trying to report. She made a number of calls to various groups and organizations expertly, efficiently, patiently, assertively and politely guiding us through this phone maze in order to get me in contact with the right people. More...

When the driver of an Hummer parked illegally in a handicap parking spot threatened Alice Chandler last week, she called 911. Three Deputies responded to the scene. They gave the man a ticket and suggested Chandler call them next time before she confronts a parking violator.

The feisty lady, five days shy of her 80th birthday, informed the deputies that she had once been a Special Deputy for the Orange County Sheriff's Department and she still had her badge and gun.

"The one deputy gave me look," she said later. "It got me wondering whether I should turn it in."

She went home and wrote a letter to Sheriff Sandra Hutchens. She congratulated Sheriff Hutchens as the first female Sheriff in Orange County. Former Special Deputy Chandler wondered whether she may have been the first female Deputy Sheriff in the Department.

"I am not sure if there was ever another woman deputy at that time, at least I never met or heard of one," she said in her letter.

Department records reviewed so far were unable to determine whether or not she was the Department's first female Deputy.

Although Department records indicate she was Special Deputy, she was given a Deputy Sheriff's badge.

"I was told by Sheriff Musick that I had the full responsiblility of a deputy sheriff and could be called at anytime should they need me and I felt so proud to have my badge and the responsibiity," she said in the letter.

She came to the Division Commanders meeting on Thursday, her 80th birthday, and formally turned her badge, identification card and gun, a .32 caliber long revolver, to Sheriff Hutchens and Captain Davis Nighswonger. She was given a birthday cake and a rendition of "Happy Birthday to You" by all who were present.

To read a Los Angeles Times account of the story click here.   

Sergeant Mike Wallace:

I would like to once again take the opportunity to offer continued praise and recognition for the outstanding job that Deputy [Kimberly] Stansfield performs in my courtroom.  Deputy Stansfield has worked with me in my courtroom for the last three plus years.  During that time, our assignments have varied.

During the past year, we worked in Department N-13 for six months handling the Felony trial calendar of Judge Prickett.  In that assignment, she exhibited professionalism with life sentence inmates, victims and victim’s families, defendant’s family/friends, jurors, attorneys, as well as all the many other tasks required to perform in felony trials.  She not only assisted in making sure things went timely, but more importantly dealt with the increased security concerns and potentially volatile situations that arise in this type of assignment.  Our next assignment was Department N-6 as an open trial courtroom and included Misdemeanor trials, Preliminary Hearings, Civil Harassments/Civil Trials, Felony and Misdemeanor sentencing’s and miscellaneous matters.  Our current assignment is Department N-9 where we handle private attorney pre-trials and back-up preliminary hearings.

Deputy Stansfield is always on time and has consistently demonstrated a very high level of professionalism and courtesy when dealing with me, court staff, attorneys, fellow deputies, prisoners, jurors and the public in the audience.  I find her to be an excellent deputy sheriff and courtroom bailiff and she is a true asset to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.  Please don’t hesitate to contact me if I can provide you with any further information.

Sincerely,

Lance P. Jensen
Superior Court Judge

Guilty on all counts.

Count 1: We find you guilty of having a dynamic personality and the professionalism that's second to none...

Click the image to read all five counts:

Dear Acting Sheriff Anderson:

My name is Rebecca Olivieri and I am a Senior Deputy District Attorney assigned to the Special Prosecutions Unit in the Orange County District Attorney’s Office.  My purpose in writing to you is to let you know what an outstanding employee you have in Deputy Jason Pitts.

Deputy Pitts proved invaluable recently when he provided crucial interpretation in a kidnap for ransom case which was investigated by the Costa Mesa Police Department.  The victims in our case were Brazilian citizens who spoke only Portuguese.  Due to the unavailability of a Portuguese interpreter during the original investigation, the victims, now living in Florida, were flown out to testify at the preliminary hearing.  Significant issues developed during the hearing, however, when it was discovered that the court assigned interpreter, who was from Portugal, was having difficulty interpreting for the Brazilian witnesses.  Given those issues, we were forced to abort the preliminary hearing midstream. More...