Over the past several years the duties of Sheriff’s Special Officers (SSO's) within the Orange County Sheriff’s Department have expanded significantly.
SSO's serve in various divisions throughout the department including the CJX, Theo Lacy Facility, James A. Musick Facility, Airport Operations, Court Operations and the Security Bureau.
The multi-faceted use of SSO's can sometimes create confusion about their official powers and responsibilities as Peace Officers.
This training bulletin will attempt to clear up some of those misconceptions and serve as a reference to members of the department.
What are Sheriff’s Special Officers?
Sheriff’s Special Officers are duly sworn and appointed Peace Officers. They derive their authority from California Penal Code sections 830.33, 830.35, and 830.36. They have the authority to make arrests and utilize force (within the confines of the law and department policy) for the purpose of performing their primary duty. Can Sheriff’s Special Officers carry and utilize handguns, Electronic Control Devices (ECDs/TASERs), batons and Pepper Spray?Yes, within the guidelines and policies of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department and all applicable laws.
Can Sheriff’s Special Officers carry concealed weapons off-duty?
Yes. California Penal Code section 12027 exempts certain peace officers from the requirements of California Penal Code section 12025 which prohibits the carrying of concealed weapons. The Court of Appeals has ruled that Sheriff’s Special Officers meet the requirements for the exemption and therefore do not need to obtain a CCW permit to carry a concealed weapon off-duty.
Are Sheriff’s Special Officers Peace Officers when they are off-duty?
Yes, the Court of Appeals has ruled that Sheriff’s Special Officers qualify to carry concealed weapons off-duty based on their status as Peace Officers. That said, Title 6 of the Departments Rules and Regulations states “Special Officers and Deputy Coroners, while off-duty, have no general duties to perform as an employee of the Orange County Sheriff-Coroner Department”. This does not lessen their off-duty status as peace officers, however it diminishes the expectation for them to act in their official capacity as peace officers while off-duty.