In light of the recent challenges our department has faced in the last two weeks I have been asked many times what will change and what will remain within the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. Certainly, there are many individuals both inside and outside our organization who have their own opinions on what should be modified. Many are well-meaning while others are not.

While aspects of our operation may change over the next few months due to leadership transitions and priorities, one thing that I am certain will not change is our commitment to the residents we serve. For twenty-one years I have had the opportunity to stand side-by-side with many of you. Over that time we have endured many challenges and opportunities, all the while keeping a level head and a clear focus on our mission. Today we stand together with the knowledge that we’ve worked to create one of the safest places in the nation to live, work and play.

As your Acting Sheriff I will continue to fight for resources at the county, state and federal levels to ensure that you have the tools necessary to fulfill your duties each and every day. I will also continue to challenge you all to be risk-takers and visionaries who push the envelope in the pursuit of cutting-edge law enforcement tools and methods so we can stay ahead of the criminals. And I will continue to use every opportunity to focus the media and the community on the men and women of our department who are the true heroes in our community.

Our department is 119 years old and throughout the years we have shared a rich history of excellence, professionalism and caring. In its humble beginnings, our department consisted of a sheriff and two deputies. We’ve grown to more than 4,000 employees. We will continue to move forward as a team.

Every new leader will create change. But such change should be respectful of the overall mission of the organization. The next few months will bring many new opportunities but I know each of you will continue to be the heroes our county depends on each and every day. I sincerely meant what I said to the Board of Supervisors last week, “the men and women of the Sheriff’s Department are its heart and the institution is greater than any one individual.”