SLO Count y Sheriff’s office annual report 2012
San Luis Obispo Count y Sheriff’s OFFICE 2012 Annual Report TABLE OF CONTENTS MESSAGE FROM SHERIFF-CORONER
4
CANINE (K-9) UNIT
28
MESSAGE FROM UNDERSHERIFF
5
SPECIAL ENFORCEMENT DETAIL
30
ADMINISTRATION
6
BOMB TASK FORCE
31
PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS UNIT
6
RURAL CRIME UNIT
32
RECORDS AND WARRANTS
8
SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER UNIT
34
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY UNIT
8
BICYCLE PATROL TEAM
35
FISCAL DIVISION
9
MARINE ENFORCEMENT UNIT
36
COMPUTER FORENSICS LAB
10
PROPERTY ROOM
37
CIVIL DIVISION
10
TRAINING UNIT
38
CUSTODY DIVISION
11
STANDARDS AND TRAINING FOR CORRECTIONS UNIT
39
BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION UNIT
39
WATCH COMMANDER’S OFFICE
15
DISPATCH CENTER
15
COAST PATROL STATION
17
NORTH PATROL STATION
18
SOUTH PATROL STATION
19
DETECTIVES DIVISION
20
SAFE TEAM
22
SEXUAL ASSAULT UNIT
23
CORONER’S OFFICE
24
PATROL (SAVP)
47
CRIME LABORATORY
25
EXPLORER PROGRAM
48
NARCOTICS UNIT
26
CONTACT
49
GANG TASK FORCE
27
CRIME PREVENTION AND PUBLIC INFORMATION UNIT
40
SHERIFF’S POSSE
41
DIVE TEAM
42
AERO SQUADRON
44
SEARCH AND RESCUE TEAM (SAR)
46
SHERIFF’S AUXILIARY VOLUNTEER
M e ss a g e f r om t h e S h e r i f f - C o r o n e r I am very proud to provide this annual report on the accomplishments of the Sheriff’s Office. This report reflects the hard work of the
internally and externally. Change is only
employees and their continued commit-
possible with the willingness and desire of
ment to the community. The following
our employees. We are fortunate to have a
pages will outline the changes that we
tremendous number of dedicated regular
have instituted over the past year. These
employees and volunteers. We are com-
changes range from a new Corner’s Office
mitted to providing the best possible
to new personnel.
service to the community, in order to make
We have and will continue to make
4
it a safe and desirable place to live and visit.
changes in the Sheriff’s Office that
We are leaders and will continue to live by
improve efficiency and effectiveness, both
the motto “Leading the Way!”
S a n L u i s O b i s p o C o u n t y S h e r i f f ’s o f f i c e
Ian Parkinson San Luis Obispo County Sheriff-Coroner
M e ss a g e
f r om
Undersheriff
In my years working in law enforcement
to learn. The Sheriff’s Office has provided services to our wonderful County since
within this county, I have always been
1850. I am proud to be a part of that his-
impressed by the quality of staff at the
Sheriff Parkinson and our valued employ-
Sheriff’s Office…
toward excellence.
and I have not been disappointed seeing
Accountability and transparency at all lev-
it first hand from the inside. I joined
els is important, and strengthening the
Sheriff Parkinson as the Undersheriff
partnership we share with the community
because I knew we shared common phi-
we serve is a high priority.
losophies and values on leadership. Throughout my law enforcement career, I have valued people as a department’s number one resource. I believe that teamwork is critical to success, and no individual is greater than the team.
tory, and I am committed to helping ees continue moving the Sheriff’s Office
I have learned a great deal since coming to the Sheriff’s Office, and realize that I have much more to learn. This is one of my favorite aspects of our profession; the fact that there are unlimited opportunities
Tim Olivas San Luis Obispo County Undersheriff
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5
ADMINISTRATION
San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s
Administration has direct supervision
Office Administration is comprised of
over the Intelligence and Professional
the following:
Standards Units, and oversees information systems and the Custody Division.
• Sheriff
The two chief deputies oversee adminis-
• Undersheriff
trative duties and the Operations Division.
• Chief Deputy (2) • Confidential Legal Clerk • Personnel Analyst
PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS UNIT Created in February 2011, the Professional
Citizen Complaint Incidents Received
Standards Unit continued to expand in its
Between Jan 1, 2012-Dec 31,2012
responsibilities in 2012. Besides process-
By Class
ing personnel complaints from the community, the unit also tracked use-of-
4.08% UNAUTHORIZED
force incidents, vehicle pursuits, and
traffic collisions. The unit also generated the early warning system designed to alert management regarding potential liability. Complaints
30.61% NEGLECT OF DUTY: 15
The number of citizen complaints was
TACTICS: 2
6.12% OTHER: 3
18.37% UNAUTHORIZED FORCE: 9
reduced in 2012. There were 45 citizen complaints in 2012 compared to 51 in 2011. There are two important factors when examining these complaint statistics. First, the number of citizen complaints reveals a consistency during the Sheriff Parkinson administration and this number indicates
20.41%
that the Sheriff’s Office is responsive to
UNBECOMING CONDUCT: 10
citizen complaints. Second, the low number of sustained citizen complaints reveals
6
S a n L u i s O b i s p o C o u n t y S h e r i f f ’s o f f i c e
20.41% DISCOURTESY: 10
that employees were acting in an appropriate manner, in most cases. In 2012 there were three sustained citizen complaints and in 2011 there were two sustained citizen complaints. Use of Force There were 38 reportable use-of-force incidents recorded in 2012, which is a relatively low number of incidents considering the number of Sheriff’s Office employees, arrests and inmates in custod y. Use - of- force incidents are investigated by supervisors whenever there is use of a Taser or other control device such as a baton, or OC (pepper) spray. In addition, use-of-force investigations are also conducted when an arrestee receives a visible injury or c o m p l a i n s o f a n i n j u r y. S h e r i f f
the proper content to effectively evalu-
Parkinson wants to ensure that depu-
ate every vehicle pursuit and ensure
ties use reasonable force to protect
that it conforms with establish policy.
themselves and the public and at the same time continually monitor use-offorce incidents to ensure that the amount of force used was necessary and complies with best practices.
Training D u r i n g 2 0 12 , t h e P r o f e s s i o n a l Standards Unit created an eight-hour Internal Affairs investigation class certified by California’s Peace Officers
Pursuits
Standards and Training (POST). This
The Professional Standards Unit began
Internal Affairs class is the only such
to monitor vehicle pursuits in 2012, and
class taught in the county, and officers
m o n i to r e d 2 2 v e h i c l e p u r s u i t s .
from most of our neighboring depart-
Oftentimes, vehicle pursuits were
ments have attended the class. The
unavoidable but the Sheriff’s Office
Professional Standards Unit also taught
must ensure that all vehicle pursuits
another POST-approved class, which
abide by agency policy and that depu-
focused on investigations of officer-
ties exercise common sense and
involved shootings and lethal
sound judgment when engaged in
use-of-force incidents, to ranking mem-
vehicle pursuits. To reach this goal,
bers of the Oakland Police Department
Sheriff Parkinson directed that a new
as well as the San Luis Obispo County
pursuit report be created that provides
Probation Department.
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RECORDS & WARRANTS
The Records and Warrants Unit consists
The unit plans to enhance the manage-
of nine full-time and two part-time
ment and storage of the Sheriff’s Office
employees who are responsible for enter-
11,000 annual crime reports taken by
ing criminal warrants into state and
deputies, expand the countywide crimi-
national databases, registration of sex/
nal justice information system, and create
arson/gang/drug offenders, as well as
new processes for handling the 18,000-
processing extraditions, concealed
plus active criminal warrants issued by
weapons permits, explosive permits,
the San Luis Obispo Superior Court.
business licenses, and legal documents (discovery orders, record seals, subpoenas). This unit is also responsible for Live Scan fingerprinting of applicants, duplicate ID resolution, DOJ validations, and responding to approximately 1,050 requests annually for documents that fall within the Public Records Act.
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY UNIT
Located in the main headquarters building, the Information Technology Unit (IT)
major projects, including, but not limited
is staffed by a supervisor, senior program
to, implementing a new fingerprint sys-
engineer, systems administrator, and
tem, replacing and upgrading the in-car
technical support person. IT is responsi-
video system, and upgrading the security
ble for the purchase, installation,
cameras. Also in 2012, the IT help desk
maintenance and support of all computer
handled over 1,300 calls in addition to
systems at the sheriff’s office, including
deploying over 40 new workstations
the computer aided dispatch system
throughout the Sheriff’s Office.
(CAD), critical records management software, arrest records and jail management systems. There are more than 350 workstations, laptops and other devices, as well as, 50 mobile data terminals that are maintained by the IT department.
8
In 2012 the IT unit was involved in several
S a n L u i s O b i s p o C o u n t y S h e r i f f ’s o f f i c e
FISCAL DIVISION The Fiscal Division supports the Sheriff’s Office in areas of accounting that include accounts payable and receivable, reconciliations, grant reporting, quarterly
Quick Facts
FY 12-13 Objectives
• Budget for FY 2012-13: $62 million
• Currently working on the consolidation
-- General Fund support: $38 million -- Funded programs including state and federal aid: $21 million -- Other revenue, including fines and fees: $3 million
process that includes new cost centers, internal orders and changes to purchase orders to be implemented with the FY 2013-14 budget. • Provide better reporting to management that includes monthly, quarterly
financial reporting and budgeting.
FY 11-12 Accomplishments
T h e d i v i s i o n i s c o m p r i s e d of a n
• Completed proposal to consolidate the
Administrative Services Manager (ASM)
current 15 divisions into four divisions
who oversees the Fiscal Division and
that include administration, field opera-
supervises the accounting staff along
tions, support services and Custody/
with preparation and monitoring of the
Civil. The consolidation will take affect
annual budget, quarterly reporting, and
at the start of the FY 2013-14 budget.
cess for each of the four divisions
• Set aside approximately $500,000
including monthly, quarterly and annual
fiscal management of various grants. In addition to the ASM, the Division includes: • An accountant II who monitors the bud-
from salary savings in FY 2011-12 to be
and annual budget information and statistics. • Add a Senior Accounting Clerk to the Fiscal Office due to the higher volume of work. • Involve management in the budget pro-
budget planning and monitoring.
used for a new radio dispatch system
• Develop a financial forecast for a two-
to replace the old system that was
year period to be used as a planning
obsolete.
tool.
get for the Custody Division, including
• Continue to work on new processes
• Work with administration and upper
the Inmate Welfare Fund and Civil
for better efficiency and improved
management on developing a commit-
Divisions including billings, reconcilia-
reporting.
tee to keep current on all grant and
tions, account analysis and various reporting.
• Continue to work on acquiring new
funding opportunities.
grants and other funding opportunities.
• A n a c c o u nt i n g te c h n i c i a n w h o mana g es re c ei va b les , p aya b les , reconciliations and monthly journal entries. • A senior accounting clerk who manages accounts payable, purchase requisitions and purchase orders.
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COMPUTER FORENSICS L AB
Computer Forensics is the process of
these specialized capabilities available
obtaining evidence from digital media
to their respective investigative units.
(computer hard drives, CDs, DVDs, cell phones, tablets, etc.) that can be pre-
In 2012, the forensic lab assisted the-
sented in a court of law.
ses allied agencies with 27 cases in
The Sheriff’s Office has a dedicated
the Sheriff’s Office.
addition to the 47 cases managed for
computer forensics lab facility and trained personnel in both online crime investigations and computer forensics. The office works closely with allied agencies within the county to make
CIVIL DIVISION
The Civil Division serves civil process in
The Civil Division also provides security
the manner prescribed by law. The major-
services for the San Luis Obispo County
ity of procedures and laws governing the
Superior Courts and the County of San
service and execution of civil process are
Luis Obispo Courthouse. There are 15
set forth in the California Code of Civil
deput y sheriffs and one sergeant
Procedure. The Civil Division works in
assigned as bailiffs to the Superior Courts.
conjunction with the Civil Courts in San
Civil Division also oversees the security
Luis Obispo County and Civil Courts
checkpoints leading into the County
throughout the State of California in the
Courthouse.
execution and service of process.
civil processes were handled by five civil
all processes in a timely manner while
deputies and four legal clerks assigned to
maintaining an impar tial position
the Civil Division:
between all parties involved. Civil process includes the service of: • Summons and complaints • Small claims documents
Evictions
737
Levies
1,239
Service of civil process
5,677
The Civil Division is located within the San Luis Obispo County Courthouse at 1050
• Restraining orders
Monterey St., Room 236, San Luis
• Subpoenas
Obispo, CA. Public counter hours are
• Evictions Others ser vices include levies on wages, bank accounts, personal property, real property, or any other asset of the judgment debtor.
10
During 2012, the following numbers of
It is the goal of the Civil Division to serve
S a n L u i s O b i s p o C o u n t y S h e r i f f ’s o f f i c e
Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., excluding holidays.
CUSTODY DIVISION
The facility operates in conformance with
To increase bed space, the Sheriff’s
all laws, guidelines and standards as
Office is taking the following steps:
established by the Board of State and Community Corrections, (BSCC), state and federal law and the operational policies and procedures of the Sheriff’s Office and the Custody Division. The operation of the jail provides for community safety, facility security, and the welfare of staff and inmates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The San Luis Obispo County Jail processes approximately 14,000 inmates
County Jail
per year and has a BSCC bed rated
• Recondition the modular units, which have been unoccupied since 1993, to house 32 inmates with classrooms for vocational training. • Add 30 additional beds to the Main Jail Dorm. • Add 36 additional beds to the West Dorm 700 and 800 units. • Add 40 additional beds to the West Housing units. • Plan to recondition the old World War II
capacity of 589. With today’s inmate The San Luis Obispo County Jail has
Weekend Barracks to house up to 80
count at 770, the jail is over crowded and
come a long way. In the 1850s, Sheriff
inmates.
is experiencing an increase in the inmate
Henry J. Dally appointed his first jailer at
population with the passage of jail
$25 per month. The county rented one
realignment bill Assembly Bill 10 9
room at the west end of Mission San
(AB109).
Luis Obispo for the jail. Today, the San Luis Obispo County Jail is located on
AB109 redirects non-violent, non-seri-
Kansas Avenue in San Luis Obispo and is
ous, and non-sexual offenders to be
comprised of 177 employees, plus medi-
housed at the San Luis Obispo County
cal, mental health staff, substance abuse
Jail instead of being incarcerated at state
counselors and numerous volunteers.
prison. Since the inception of AB109 in
The Custody Division’s annual budget is
October 2011, the San Luis Obispo
approximately $27 million (salar y/
County Jail has housed an additional
services).
1,135 inmates. With this increase, the jail
The primary function of the county jail is
Board of Supervisors has approved fund-
The jail has also remodeled the old Main Jail Safety Cell shower to meet ADA ( A merican’s with Disabilities Act) standards.
increased bed space and staff. The to house pretrial arrestees and sentenced
ing for one additional correctional
inmates in a safe and secure environment,
sergeant, 15 correctional deputies, one
providing protection of the community.
correctional technician, one correctional
The jail houses both male and female
cook, one mental health counselor, one
inmates in maximum, medium and mini-
program coordinator, and one automa-
mum security housing locations. It also
tion specialist for the jail.
provides for the health and welfare of the inmates and has the responsibility of transporting those inmates to and from locations outside of the jail.
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11
Medical Dispensary The Medical Dispensary is staffed 24 hours a day with additional support from local hospitals, as needed. An average of 3,170 inmates are taken to the dispensary each month, with three sick calls a day, in addition to emergencies and inmates needing medical clearances to be booked into the jail. The inmates are treated for a variety of ailments ranging from alcohol withdrawal to heart problems. With over 67 percent of the inmate population on prescription medication, the cost of these medications exceeds
General Educational
video tapes. Services are contracted
$439,864 annually.
Development (GED)
through Cuesta College.
Mental Health Services
In 2012, 139 inmates par ticipated
Life Skills
Psychiatric staff operates seven days a week, 365 days a year. Jail Psychiatric Services had more than 7,000 contacts
in the GED program; 51 inmates tested and 24 passed. GED is open to all inmates with ser vices contracted through
and learned how to build relationships,
Cuesta College.
coping with stress, find and keep a job,
Adult Basic Education (ABE)
raise healthy kids, set and prioritize goals
day. This does not include phone calls by
In 2012, 19 8 inmates par ticipated
correctional deputies for emergency situ-
and learned the basics of reading and
through Cuesta College.
last year, which works out to be around 20 to 22 per day. However, it is not unusual to receive 20 to 50 requests per
manage time, motivate themselves, and stay healthy. Services are contracted
ations, court ordered evaluations or
writing. Services are contracted through
Alternatives to Violence (AVP)
various service providers and family
Cuesta College.
Workshops
English as Second Language (ESL)
This program is available to the male and
members requesting immediate evaluation for an at-risk inmate. Approximately 30 to 35 percent of the jail inmates are on psychiatric medication. Inmate Programs The expectation of the public includes rehabilitation of inmates by providing them with vocational and educational training. The goals of these programs are to improve offender success rates and reduce recidivism.
12
In 2012, 220 female inmates participated
In 2012, 37 inmates participated and learned the English language. Services are contracted through Cuesta College. Vocational Education Program In 2012, 189 female inmates partici-
female Honor Farm inmates. The program involves workshops to help inmates change their lives by learning new skills and attitudes that lead to a more fulfilling and crime-free life. Workshops help inmates reduce the level of unresolved conflicts in their lives and lives of those
pated and learned vocational job search
around them. It helps establish self-
skills and clerical office skills.
esteem, trust and cooperation, as well as
The program utilizes 10 computer sta-
methods of communication to resolve
tions with CDROMS, books and audio/
conflict. Workshops are voluntary. Each
S a n L u i s O b i s p o C o u n t y S h e r i f f ’s o f f i c e
of the three levels of AVP workshops
Reproductive Health Education
Additional programs
runs 18 to 201 hours and is facilitated by
and Counseling
operating in conjunction
a team of volunteers.
This class teaches inmates about basic
Certified Food Safety
anatomy, sexually transmitted infections
Manager Training
and HIV risk factors, available contracep-
This program is available to male and female Honor Farm inmates. Inmates learn the latest updates of the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) Food Code, understand complicated food borne pathogen information, and identify and convey where key local codes may apply. Inmates that pass a written test obtain a nationally recognized certificate of competence in the food service industry. This
tive methods, health promotion and
with the jail include: Forensic Reentry Services (FRS) The Forensic Re-entry Service (FRS) is a
disease prevention.
Community Service/Outreach Program
Stress Reduction Through Yoga
program of San Luis Obispo County.
Yoga is a mind-body practice that combines stretching exercises, controlled breathing and relaxation. Yoga can help reduce stress, lower blood pressure and improve heart function. Inmates are shown how to relax and manage stress
certificate is good for five years.
and anxiety through yoga.
Creative Writing, Drama and Poetry
Substance Treatment Program
Different instructors offer various
This is a 12-week course for inmates who
within the Mental Health Services Act The FRS team works with the San Luis Obispo County Jail Psychiatric Services to provide ser vices to individuals being released from jail who have a primary mental health diagnosis and/or co-occurring disorder(s). Services provided help connect the person to community supportive services including, but not limited to: • Housing and shelter services
have struggled with addiction and
• Food acquisition (temporary or ongoing)
that involve creative writing and poetry.
alcoholism. Curriculum includes: anger
• Fiscal planning
Parenting
tion, release planning, self esteem,
classes to inmates throughout the year
Curriculum focuses is on enhancing p a re nt i n g s k i l l s , w h i c h i n c l u d e s discussions on parenting techniques and strategies for creating a healthy
management, relapse prevention educaperception checking, and tools
• Medical care
for success.
• Mental health follow-up (appointment,
Thinking for Change
family environment.
Curriculum involves motivating inmates
Planning for Change
ing and taking responsibility for their
This cognitive behavior type treatment program aims to change anti-social thinking and criminal behavior. Curriculum i nvo l ve s h av i n g i n m a te s a s s e s s
• Employment
medications, assessments) • Social security/insurance needs.
to actively participate in their own learnown life situations. Three components of Thinking for Change are cognitive self-change, social skills, and problem solving skills.
“red flags” and take personal responsibility for their behavior. This program also helps inmates identif y goals and available resources.
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13
Forensic Coordination Team (FCT)
K9 Narcotics Dog
Court Services/Transportation:
Open to aid mentally ill offenders, this
In June 2012, the jail acquired a narcotics
Because the jail is located approximately
team collaborates with the community
dog (Dutch) and assigned Correctional
five miles from the courthouse, inmates
and law enforcement by offering more
Deputy Josh Fischer as his handler.
who are required to appear in court need
intensive supervision and assisting indi-
Deputy Fischer and Dutch have worked
to be transported and supervised by cor-
viduals and families in connecting them
both inside and outside of the jail. Since
rectional deputies. Additionally, the
with these services.
June 2012, Deputy Fischer and Dutch
transportation team transports inmates
Drug Court
have conducted sniffs on 291 cells, 52
to medical and dental appointments and
vehicles, 13 residence, 93 buildings and
from various state and local agencies.
55 open areas. While working in the jail,
The rated capacity for court holding is 77.
Open to all inmates through probation, this program consists of an 18-month intensive supervision and counseling program designed to keep lower-risk inmates out of custody. Mental Health Court
they have been able to find or recover approximately 22 grams of marijuana, six grams of methamphetamine and two grams of heroin. Deputy Fischer has also made five felony arrests on inmates bringing narcotics into the jail.
Open to aid mentally ill offenders through probation, this program identifies mentally ill inmates and works closely to find outside alternatives to incarceration. Proposition 36
In 2012, 12,277 inmates were transported to court, 112 inmates to dental and medical appointments, 138 inmates transported to or from out-of-county jails, and 101 inmates to state prison. Women’s Jail Expansion Project The Women’s Jail Expansion Project consists of an expansion to an existing jail facility at the west end of the property incorporating an additional total of 32,000 square feet configured in a double square formation. These two housing
Open to all inmates, this program is very
units will be capable of housing up to 192
similar to the Drug Court program and is
inmates, in single cells and in a dormitory
offered through parole. This program
setting. The unit will also have eight spe-
instructs individuals who have been re-
cial housing cells to address inmates
arrested for a parole violation to
with mental health issues, discipline
participate in drug and alcohol counsel-
problems and medical problems. The
ing while being housed in the jail.
construction budget is anticipated at $35 million, with a start date slated for September 2013.
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S a n L u i s O b i s p o C o u n t y S h e r i f f ’s o f f i c e
WATCH COMMANDER’S OFFICE The Watch Commander’s Office is located in the Emergency Operations Center directly adjacent to the Dispatch Center. Five sworn sergeants man the
notifications during law enforcement criti-
during any unusual events or critical inci-
Watch Commander’s Office 24 hours a
cal incidents and natural disasters,
dents occurring at the plant. The Watch
day, with commanders providing direct
including but not limited to the county
C ommander, following procedure,
management during the evening hours
Bomb Task Force, Special Enforcement
is authorized to activate the County
five days a week.
Detail (Sheriff’s SWAT team), Search and
Emergency Alert System including
Rescue, Dive Team, Aero Squadron, and
R e v e r s e 9 -1 -1, a re a s i re n s , a n d
the Sheriff’s Detective Division.
EAS messages on commercial radio
The sergeants and commanders oversee dispatch services and patrol operations on a daily basis, and regulate service call
The Watch Commander’s Office is also
priority and order of response. The Watch
the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant’s
Commander’s Office also handles all
primary law enforcement point of contact
DISPATCH CENTER
Center is staffed with Emergency
The Dispatch Center is a primary public
The Sheriff’s Dispatch Center has the
safety answering point responsible
responsibility of activating the Reverse
fo r a ll 9 -1-1 c a lls in t h e c o u nt y,
9 -1-1 system in times of emergency.
c ommunic ations and infor m ation
Within minutes, this system has the abil-
between the public, law enforcement,
ity to notify hundreds of residents by
paramedics and numerous county and
telephone with a voice recording with
state departments.
important emergency information and
Several hundreds of thousands of incoming and outgoing calls are handled by the Dispatch Center each year, including from the public and dispatching deputies, ambulances, EMS helicopters and outside agency personnel. The Dispatch
and television.
Medical Dispatch (EMD) cer tified dispatchers 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
instructions. The system’s database is updated monthly using current records from the 9-1-1 database. The Reverse
Technologically, the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD), mobile and mapping programs are Tritech systems. The Tritech software gives dispatchers the ability to create incidents and direct the
9-1-1 system has been activated 4 times
closest, most appropriate emergency
this past year for emergency notifica-
personnel to calls for service. The 9-1-1
tions in numerous areas of the county.
system is an Intrado’s Viper VoIP 9-1-1
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15
phone system; the system is approxi-
2011 calls for service
mately 3 years old and is ready to handle Next Generation 9-1-1 phone calls. The Viper VoIP phone system is a redundant system in order to increase reliability.
911 Calls 16% 33,426
In 2012, the Dispatch Center answered 38,483 emergency 9-1-1 calls for ser-
Non Emergency Calls
vice. The calls were answered in 10
84% 176,698
seconds or less more than 93% of the
Total Calls for Service: 210,124
time (California State Standard is 90 percent). The Dispatch Center handled 209,316 phone calls and created 90,800 incidents for service. It also created and dispatched more than 24,000 medical
2012 calls for service
calls for service. Besides their daily duties, dispatchers are involved in community outreach events such as the Mid-State Fair and Sheriff’s Day at the Ranch. At these
18% 38,483
events, dispatchers hand out educa-
Non Emergency Calls
tional literature regarding the importance
82% 170,833
of 9-1-1 and how children should report emergencies. Children also have the opportunity to meet Red E Fox, the mascot for the 9-1-1 for Kids program.
16
911 Calls
S a n L u i s O b i s p o C o u n t y S h e r i f f ’s o f f i c e
Total Calls for Service: 209,316
COAST STATION
The coordinated response to this incident resulted in the apprehension of 20 sus-
to a call reporting an unknown subject
pected drug smugglers and the recovery
entering a residence in Rural San Luis
of $4 million worth of Mexican marijuana.
Obispo to commit a Burglary. The sus-
Another abandoned Panga was discov-
pect stabbed the home’s occupant
ered in the area on October 19, 2012. On
several times before fleeing in the vic-
November 27, 2012, Coast Station patrol
tim’s vehicle. The suspect was arrested
deputies were on a routine patrol in that
later that same day in Kings County.
same area when they encountered a small group smuggling illicit drugs. Two people were then arrested and an addiDuring 2012, the Coast Station was introduced to Maritime Smuggling Interdiction challenges. Beginning on May 24, 2012, patrol personnel of the Coast Station were alerted to the firstknown landing of a Panga-style vessel on a beach along the North Coast of San Luis Obispo County near the Monterey County Line. That vessel was empty and abandoned by criminals who were sus-
In June 2012, patrol deputies responded
I n A u g u s t 2 012 , p at ro l d e p u t ie s responded to the report of a missing per-
tional Panga vessel was recovered.
son in the 400 Block of Leighton Road in
Coast Station patrol deputies also
was found that the missing person had
responded to a number of high-profile
been killed, and a homicide investigation
violent crimes in 2012. In April 2012, a
was initiated.
subject was arrested after physically assaulting his mother in a residence in the 1800 Block of 7th Street in Los Osos. The victim later died as a result of the injuries sustained, and the suspect was charged with homicide.
Cambria. After further investigation, it
In November 2012, patrol deputies responded to the 3200 Block of South Ocean Avenue in C ayucos where an argument between two neighbors ended when one of the neighbors shot at the other with a small caliber
pected of smuggling illicit drugs from
handgun. The bullet missed the victim
Mexico. A second Panga landing was
and the suspect was arrested for
reported on September 6, 2012.
attempted homicide. Because of the highly effective actions and investigations conducted by the first responding deputies, the perpetrators were apprehended and the community was protected. Coast Station patrol personnel handled the above highlighted incidents in an exemplary manner.
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17
NORTH STATION
During 2012, the North Station was again
In preparation for the expected high level
the busiest Sheriff’s Office station for
of activity, the North Station assigned
calls for service and deputy activity.
additional manpower, allowing an
The North Station received a total
unmarked two-man unit to be deployed
of 23,029 calls for service, and San
for proactive patrol, as well as more
Miguel, Templeton, Rural Paso Robles
marked units fielded on the swing shift.
continue to be the busiest areas of the North Station’s response area, with major issues being thefts, burglaries and
Beat 8 became an active patrol beat in December 2012 to cover Shandon,
gang activity.
Creston and California Valley. In prepara-
The patrol station for this area is
was opened in the new Creston Calfire
tion for this additional beat, a report room
located at 356 North Main Street in
Station. Beat 8 deputies use this report
Templeton and is currently staffed with
room as an office to complete their
one commander, two sergeants, four
reports and interview citizens.
senior deputies, 23 deputies and two station clerks.
A reserve deputy detective and a reserve deputy crisis response team member both work out of North Station. Another reserve deputy will soon be deployed to the Heritage Ranch and Oak Shores areas to assist with response times.
18
S a n L u i s O b i s p o C o u n t y S h e r i f f ’s o f f i c e
South Station
Of these 27 deputy sheriffs, two deputies
crimes involving defrauding creditors and
are assigned as station investigators who
stealing money from bank accounts.
handle property crimes and missing per-
Investigation by South Station investiga-
son investigations. Two deputies are
tors led to search warrants and multiple
assigned as school resources officers
arrests of the suspects in this case. The
working at schools in the Lucia Mar
investigation revealed that a single indi-
School District and one deput y is
vidual had created a crime syndicate using
assigned as a rural crimes deputy focus-
several others to steal the identities of
ing on criminal investigations related to
people in San Luis Obispo and Santa
the agricultural industry.
Barbara counties. Because of the scope
Canine (K-9) Deputy “Gonzo” and his
and severity of this case, it is currently
handler Deputy Mark Souza joined the South Station in January 2012. K- 9 Deputy Gonzo is a 3 -year- old male
being reviewed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation for prosecution under the RICO statute for organized crime.
The South Station covers 850 square
German Shepard and has been trained
During 2012, the Sheriff’s Office has
miles with a population of approximately
in both narcotics detection and protection
worked to strengthen partnerships with
36,000 people living in the communities
duties. Gonzo is one of four new K-9
the communities we serve in the South
of Oceano, Nipomo, unincorporated
deputies to join the Sheriff’s Office
Count y by creating additional
Arroyo Grande, Los Berros, New Cuyama,
in 2012, paid for through narcotics
Neighborhood Watch programs, hosting
Huasna Valley, Blacklake-Callendar and
asset forfeiture.
Sheriff’s Family Day events to help create
In April 2012, Deputy Chad Guiton was
a dialog with parents about the dangers
The Woodlands. The area extends from Pismo Beach to the Santa Barbara County line and from the Pacific Ocean to the Kern County line.
honored with an award from the Office of Transportation Safety and Mothers Against Drunk Driving for leading the
posed to children by street gangs, and intro du c in g the G an g Resist anc e Education and Training (GREAT) curricu-
The patrol station for this area is located at
Sheriff’s Office in arrests for drunk driv-
lum in our local schools.
1681 Front St. in Oceano and is currently
ers. This was the second year in a row
The GREAT program is an effective gang
staffed with one commander, two ser-
that Deputy Guiton received this award.
and violence prevention program built
During the summer and fall of 2012, a
around school-based, law enforcement
geants, four senior deputies, 23 sheriff deputies and two station clerks.
rash of mail thefts occurred in the South County area. The suspects looked for checking account and credit card information that could be used for identity theft
officer-instructed classroom curricula. The program is intended as an immunization against delinquency, youth violence, and gang membership for children before they reach prime ages for introduction into gangs and delinquent behavior.
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19
DETECTIVES DIVISION The Detective Division is responsible for the investigation of criminal cases that are above and beyond the scope and resources of the Patrol Division. This
in court. Some cases make it through the
nography, non-financial elder abuse, and
court process in a relatively short amount
sexual registrants.
of time, while others may take years.
In 2012, the Detectives Division success-
The following are only two examples
fully investigated four homicide cases and
of the many cases in which detectives
concluded a gang-related drive-by-shoot-
are called to conduct an investigation
ing homicide, all which led to arrests.
and then appear in court to testify
They also investigated four attempted
to the detailed information, which
homicide cases and many other cases
was found through the course of the
including major investigations and other
investigation. Caution: The cases contain
lesser-involved investigations.
sensitive material that may not be suitable
The Sheriff’s Office conducted all aspects
for all readers.
may require a large amount of resources
of the criminal investigation into the
Case #1:
for an extended period of time, and may
shooting of a California Highway Patrol Officer in Paso Robles. Other major inves-
On Christmas night in 2010, a citizen con-
need investigators with specialized training, knowledge and equipment. The
tigations included child molestations,
includes all misdemeanor and felony crimes for both local and state laws where other agencies do not have the primary investigative responsibility. These cases
investigation may extend beyond a patrol
rape, child pornography, robbery, and bur-
deputy’s area of responsibility, or beat.
glary. There are other investigations that
Detectives are able to focus on their inves-
are not major investigations, but still
tigation without the interruptions of
require detective investigative resources,
having to handle calls for service as a
such as critical or at risk missing persons,
patrol deputy.
runaway juveniles, and suspicious death
Detectives in the Detective Division are assigned to a specific area of investigations. General crime detectives are responsible for investigating crimes
20
in nature, child molestations, child por-
investigations. New cases requiring detective investigation are constantly coming in to the division. While carrying their caseload, detectives
tacted dispatch to report suspicious circumstances in rural Santa Margarita. The citizen reported a male subject had jumped up out of a ditch alongside Pozo Road. This subject told them his wife had been shot and that the suspect was chasing him. Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the area and spoke with the surviving victim. He was visibly upset and told them someone had shot his wife, Beverly Reilly, at his son-in-law’s residence. Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the residence and
against persons and property. The sexual
must also appear in court to testify on
located two victims inside who had been
assault detectives are responsible for
investigations that have been submitted
shot and killed.
crimes against persons which are sexual
to the District Attorney’s Office and filed
S a n L u i s O b i s p o C o u n t y S h e r i f f ’s o f f i c e
An investigation revealed that the suspect,
Road. He then went to another residence
an extensive investigation led by criminal
Andrew Wesley Downs, a 20-year-old
up the road and stole another truck.
detectives and Sheriff’s Office Gang Unit
schizophrenic, had stolen his parents’
On December 26, 2010 at approximately
detectives. This was a multi-agency and,
SUV and an 8mm rifle. He then drove to the Pozo area to get away from aliens that he believed were taking over the world, and lost control of the SUV, rolling several times in the area earlier that morning. Downs then worked his way to the closest occupied residence and rang the doorbell at the back door. As Beverly Reilly came to the door and began to open it, Downs shot her once in the head. Downs entered the residence and began looking for clothing in the back bedroom. When the surviving victim and his sisterin-law, Kathy Yeager, came into the residence, Yeager was walking down the hallway looking for Beverly Reilly when Downs shot her once in the head. When the surviving victim went to see what had happened, Downs confronted him. The
3 a.m., the Atascadero Police Department received a call from a citizen regarding an intruder that had attempted to kill her husband with a wrench. Atascadero Police Officers responded and contacted Downs. The Sheriff’s Office was notified and Downs was taken into custody. In January and February 2012, a court trial was held before Superior Court Judge John Trice to determine the issue of sanity in regards to Downs. Downs pled not guilty by reason of insanity (NGI). Based on the testimony and evidence in the case, Judge Trice ruled that Downs was insane when he committed the crimes. Downs was sentenced to Atascadero State Hospital for an indeterminate sentence with a maximum of life.
surviving victim ran from the residence
Case #2:
and hid. Downs then stole a ranch truck
On the evening of November 17, 2011,
at times, a multi-jurisdiction investigation. After six months of nonstop investigation, suspect Armando Yepez was arrested for the homicide of Adrian Salgado. This unfolded on May 17, 2012 in dramatic fashion when Sheriff’s Office detectives and Gang Unit detectives conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle on Highway 101 as Yepez was attempting to flee the area. Jury selection for the homicide trial began November 26, 2012 and the trial soon began. Detectives from the Sheriff’s Office were on the stand for countless hours answering very direct and sometimes heated questions from the prosecution and defense attorneys. The Deputy District Attorney was able to present the evidence gathered in the investigation through the detectives’ testimony to the jury. The trial ran continuousl y until c losing argument s on
and began driving around the ranch and
shots rang out from a vehicle as it drove
vineyard looking for the surviving victim
December 10, 2012 and the trial was
by a group standing near a street corner in
submitted to the jury. On 12/12/12 the jury
before getting the truck stuck in the mud.
Oceano. Bullets struck two subjects in
Downs then stole another utility truck
reached a verdict and found Armando
the group. The first victim was Adrian
from the ranch and drove away from the
Yepez guilty on all counts. Yepez is
Salgado, 17, who did not survive. The sec-
residence. Downs ended up getting that
scheduled for his sentencing hearing on
ond victim survived his two gunshot
utility truck stuck in the mud along Pozo
March 5, 2013.
wounds. The Sheriff’s Office conducted
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21
SAFE TEAM
Of the 253 sex offenders registered with
Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task
the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s
Force. This has allowed us to combine our
Office in 2012, only two were truly in viola-
resources to better investigate and arrest
tion of their registration requirements.
those who possess and distribute child
One person has been missing for over 10
pornography as well as other Internet
years and is believed to be out of the coun-
crimes against children. We have seen a
try; the other is actively being sought and
dramatic increase in cases of child pornog-
has a warrant out for his arrest. Other reg-
raphy possession.
istrants appear to be in violation of their registration requirements on the Megan’s Law website, however they are unable to keep their registration updated because they are currently incarcerated in county jails or prison. Many of these Sexual Assault Felony Enforcement (SAFE) Team members are responsible for
incarcerations are a result of the SAFE Team investigations.
verifying the residency of all PC 290 (sex
response to complaints, inquiries, and information regarding PC 290 registered sex offenders to the community. We provide community notifications of sexually violent predators (SVP) and high-risk sex offenders when warranted. The SAFE Team distributes media releases or passes
offender) registrants in the unincorporated
The SAFE Team continues to work with
out informational flyers door-to-door.
areas of San Luis Obispo County.
Probation and Parole departments, assist-
Sex offenders who have warrants for
ing with sweeps, residential checks and
their arrest are posted on the Sheriff’s
In 2012, the SAFE Team conducted or
home searches of registered sex offend-
Office website as well as local Crime
assisted with:
ers who are on probation or parole.
Stoppers websites.
• 427 compliance checks
Efforts are made to interview all new PC
SAFE Team members also work closely
• 60 investigations of possible sex
290 registrants throughout the year.
with victim/witness advocates through
During this interview, SAFE Team mem-
the District Attorney’s Office to meet the
offender registration violations • 37 filed c ases with the District Attorney’s Office for failing to register properly • 12 registered sex offenders were investigated for committing new crimes,
bers discuss the registrant’s requirements
needs of the victim. The team also contin-
and answer any questions offenders may
ues to monitor registered arsonists that
have. Members of the SAFE Team visit
live in the county.
and remind newly released PC 290 registered sex offenders of their registration responsibilities and requirements.
u n re l a te d to t h e i r re g i s t r a t i o n requirements • 13 search warrants
22
SAFE Team members provide immediate
The Sheriff’s Office continues to work as a part of the Central California Internet
S a n L u i s O b i s p o C o u n t y S h e r i f f ’s o f f i c e
SEXUAL ASSAULT UNIT
The Sexual Assault Unit consists of three
In addition to their caseload, training the
investigators who investigate cases of
community and educational outreach
physical and sexual abuse within the unin-
have become a necessar y priorit y.
corporated areas of the county, as well as
Specialized trainings have assisted
assist outside agencies in their investiga-
Sexual Assault and Recovery Program
tions. The investigation of physical and
(SARP) advocates, Sexual Assault
sexual abuse cases are highly specialized
Response Team (SART) nurses, Rotary
and require expert training. Investigators
Clubs and other nonprofit organization, as
also provide training to mandated report-
well as the Sheriff’s Office, as it relates to
ers of child abuse, as well as community
initial child or adult sexual assault cases.
groups.
The Sexual Assault Unit actively partici-
Combined, the sexual assault investiga-
pates in local committees and programs
tors handle 200 cases per year as they
as part of the outreach effort. In 2012, the
relate to child and/or adult sexual abuse
Sexual Assault Unit attended SART
or assault, elder abuse, and child pornog-
Advisory Board meetings and various
raphy. These cases can take, on average,
community committees and sub-com-
several months to fully investigate
mittees like Walk-A-Mile in Her Shoes,
and last several months to a year in the
which is a public awareness benefit for
court process.
victims of sexual assault.
In 2012, these investigators also assisted
The unit hopes to continue providing com-
in child forensic interviews, homicide and
plete and thorough investigations as it
other investigations outside of sexual
relates to these crimes, as well as advo-
assault, search warrant preparation and
cating for victims and their families in the
service, conducted CVSA examinations
coming year.
in criminal and background investigations, worked in concert with crime lab forensic technicians in analyzing pieces of evidence as they pertain to sexual assault, and worked with computer forensic technicians in analyzing electronic/computer based evidence as it related to child pornography cases.
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23
CORONER’S OFFICE
Sheriff-Coroner Ian Parkinson and all of his
Of those 554 coroner cases, the Coroner
deputy coroners perform the role of coro-
Unit conducted additional investigation on
ner in all jurisdictions in San Luis Obispo
242 of them. Although coroner investiga-
County. The California Government Code
tors did not investigate all cases, coroner
requires the coroner to investigate the
detectives thoroughly reviewed all
cause and manner of death in most cases
the c ases an d si g ne d all rel ate d
where a death occurred outside of a hos-
death certificates.
pital or the presence of a physician, and all other cases involving homicides, suicides, accidental deaths and deaths due to suspicious circumstances.
It is the responsibility of the coroner to determine the necessary level of inquiry into any death that falls within the jurisdiction of the Coroner’s Office. The level of
In most cases a patrol deputy will respond
inquiry is determined on a case-by-case
to a report of death and conduct an inves-
basis. Of the 242 cases in 2012 in which
tigation. For other cases where additional
Coroner’s Office certified the deaths, 159
investigation and expertise is needed, the
autopsies were performed, 66 medical
Sheriff’s Office has a Coroner Unit within
inspections were conducted and 17
the Detective Division. The Coroner Unit is
deaths were certified by medical records.
comprised of three detectives who spe-
Of the deaths investigated by the Coroner
cialize in death investigations.
Unit, 109 were natural deaths, 54 were
In 2012, the Coroner Unit responded to 1,376 reportable deaths in the county. The Coroner Unit also reviews all hospice
suicides, five were homicides, 71 were accidental and three were undetermined. Aside from the investigations, 2012 was
cases in the county. There were 1,129 hos-
an exciting year for the Coroner’s Unit.
pice cases in 2012, just over 100 more
Construction was completed on the new
cases compared to 2011. In 2012, depu-
coroner facility and now all aspects of the
ties responded to 554 coroner cases.
coroner functions are completed under one roof. The new facility became operational on August 30, 2012. For the first time in its history, the Sheriff’s Office now has a state-of-the-art coroner facility capable of handling all of the needs of San Luis Obispo County for many years to come. Additionally, the Coroner’s Office will continue to co-sponsor the internationally recognized Forensic Fire Death Investigations Course, which is attended by students from all across the United States, Canada and Europe.
24
S a n L u i s O b i s p o C o u n t y S h e r i f f ’s o f f i c e
CRIME L ABORATORY The Crime Laboratory saw some major changes in 2012. The Crime Lab provided crime scene investigations, drug analysis, processed evidence, and provided toxicological evaluations of submitted samples. These services were provided to the Sheriff’s office and allied local, state and federal agencies. Crime Laboratory personnel handled more than 1,900 cases in 2012; 45 percent of these cases originated from Sheriff’s Office investigations. The remaining 55 percent originated from outside agencies. However, 75 percent of all cases handled were toxicology reports and suspicious substance testing related to narcotics incidents.
The Sheriff’s Office also installed the
Forensic Specialists from the Sheriff’s
SLO County Automated Fingerprint
Office responded to a wide variety of
Identification System (SLOAFIS), which
calls for service during 2012. These calls
launched in March 2012 and began
included homicides, attempted homi-
providing suspect identification almost
cides, other suspicious deaths, robberies,
immediately, resulting in the identifica-
burglaries and sexual assaults. The
tion of a person of interest in a nearly
arrival of a second crime scene truck
20 -year- old homicide investigation.
made it possible to respond to two sepa-
SLOAFIS currently houses fingerprint
rate crime scenes at the same time with
records for over 65,000 individuals.
the necessary equipment and supplies to
Combined, they have contributed
process the evidence.
5.1 million fingerprint images that are currently being used for comparison and identific ation. In ad dition to SLOAFIS, pilot programs began to allow for the rapid identification of individuals in the field and at the San Luis Obispo County Jail using fingerprint identification technology.
Also for the first time, forensic specialists completed proficiency testing for fingerprint identification last year and began par ticipating in CAL- ID sponsored fingerprint trainings pre sented by the International Association for Identification. Fingerprint examiners from across the nation attend these training sessions.
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25
NARCOTICS UNIT The Sheriff’s Office maintains a narcotics unit consisting of 14 detectives supervised by a sergeant, which is an increase from last year since detectives from participating cities are now included.
trained and certified by the State of
(DEC) investigations. Because DEC
California. Federal and state law require
investigations involve a multi-agency
detectives who work with hazardous
approach to developing strategies to pro-
materials (HA ZMAT), such as those
tect children, sheriff’s detectives work
found in clandestine drug laboratories
closely with the District Attorney’s Office
complete a total of 80 hours of instruction
and the Department of Social Services to
to learn how to safely process a clandes-
keep children safe and prosecute those
tine laboratory site for evidence as part of
who would expose them to the dangers
their investigation and to ensure their
of illicit drugs.
compliance with the various environmen-
The Narcotics Unit has placed an empha-
Drug crimes do not follow state or county
tal and safety regulations that apply to
boundaries. So narcotics detectives
clan lab seizure and dismantling. These
often work cases that originate in San
detectives must then receive ongoing
Luis Obispo County and then lead to
training in this field to maintain their certi-
other jurisdictions. Narcotics detectives
fication. Clan Labs are most often
regularly work with other local, state and
associated with methamphetamine man-
federal drug enforcement agencies on
ufacturing, but can include the
cohesive multi-jurisdictional efforts to
manufacture of other drugs, such as LSD,
combat the problem of illegal drugs
honey oil extraction, steroids and organic
throughout California. Efforts this year
h allu c in o g enic c o m p o un d s , su c h
included conducting surveillances of sus-
as methytryptamine.
pects, managing confidential informants, gathering financial records and phone toll information, monitoring wire taps on suspect’s phones, working in undercover capacities, writing and executing search warrants and interviewing suspects regarding their crimes.
In the interest of protecting children who are exposed to drugs, drug manufacturing and the dangers that exist with this activity, the Sheriff’s Office participates
the increased demand. Additionally, the unit has also responded to the emerging maritime smuggling operations along our coastline. The maritime interdiction e f fo r t s i nv o l v e l e v e r a g i n g s t a te and federal partnerships in order to safeguard the community from this threat to public safety. In 2012 more than 140 Narcotics Unit investigations resulted in the following seizure totals. Some seizures were the result of multi-agency investigations and occurred throughout California. Heroin
0.52 lbs.
Methamphetamine Enforcement Team
Cocaine
83 lbs.
(Cal-MMET) Program. The Cal-MMET
Methamphetamine
8.4 lbs.
Processed marijuana
3,855 lbs.
Marijuana plants
32,323 lbs.
in the California Multi-Jurisdictional
The Narcotics Unit maintains a
grants funds for two sheriff’s narcotics
Clandestine Laboratory Team (Clan Labs)
detectives to receive specialized training in the field of Drug Endangered Children
26
sis on heroin investigations in response to
S a n L u i s O b i s p o C o u n t y S h e r i f f ’s o f f i c e
GANG TASK FORCE
In 2012, the San Luis Obispo County Gang
During the homicide investigation, the
Task Force (GTF) received an increase in
GT F conducted periodic probation
manpower from the reallocation of
searches, resulting in several more gang-
Narcotics Task Force resources. The
related arrests. After the investigation’s
increased resources came just at the right
conclusion in May, the GTF worked at sup-
time since GTF was working side by side
pressing gang problems in North County
with the Sheriff’s Detective Unit on a
between the Nortenos and Surenos
seven-month, gang-related drive -by
gangs, and dealt with a rising White Power
shooting homicide investigation. This
gang in South County.
investigation ended in May with the successful arrest of an 18th street gang member and a later conviction for murder with gang enhancements.
Throughout 2012, the task force continued to work with local agencies providing assistance in gang related criminal investigations, while routinely facilitating presentations for both law enforcement and community organizations. This coming year, the GTF is working hand in hand with the District Attorney’s Office, probation, jail classification, and other local agencies to develop a comprehensive gang member registration system similar to what currently exists for arson, sex, and habitual narcotics offenders.
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27
Canine (K-9) Unit The Sheriff’s Canine (K- 9) Unit was
Deputy Steve Faith is K-9 Nico’s handler,
established January 2001 with its first
Deputy Mark Souza is K-9 Gonzo’s han-
percent proficient in the detection of
narcotics detection canine, Jake, who
dler, Deputy John Franklin is K-9 Jacco’s
cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin,
worked through 2009 until he passed
handler, and Deputy Josh Fischer is K-9
opium and marijuana.
away from cancer. Jake left a lasting
Dutch’s handler.
impression with several Narcotics Units
Nico, Gonzo and Jacco also passed their
Nico, Gonzo, Jacco and Dutch each com-
first Police Officer Standards and Training
pleted their narcotics detection training
(POST) evaluation, which encompassed
and were certified by the California
obedience, apprehension, and handler
throughout C entral and S outhern California, so the Sheriff’s Office is continuing the tradition of training and using canines in this special unit. The mission of the K-9 Unit is to support
K-9 Stats for Year 2012 Deployments
528
Calls for Service
1198
Searches
1472
Arrests
276
officer safety and providing outstanding
AOA (Assists other Agencies)
76
service to the community.
Apprehensions
46
Apprehension Bites
4
chased its second narcotics detection
Cocaine
763.8 grams
canine, Jack, who is assigned to the
Methamphetamine
3223.02 grams
Special Operations Unit.
Heroin
143.35 grams
In December 2012, under the direction of
Marijuana
16,734.18 grams
Sheriff- Coroner Ian Parkinson, the
U.S. Currency
agency operations by providing the expertise necessary to effectively search for outstanding suspects, persons, narcotics, and evidence, while enhancing
In January 2010, the Sheriff’s Office pur-
Sheriff’s Office expanded the canine pro-
Positive
$588.439
g r am by a d d in g thre e a d d i ti o n al
Negative
$34.178
cross -trained patrol dogs that are assigned throughout the county. These dogs are capable of detecting narcotics and protecting their handlers, apprehending suspects, and tracking. Sheriff Parkinson also added a second narcotic detection K-9 to the Custody Division.
28
Narcotics Canine Association as 100
S a n L u i s O b i s p o C o u n t y S h e r i f f ’s o f f i c e
protection. They were deployed for the
A fourth cross-trained dog will be added
first year and are doing a great job for the
to the North Station in 2013, and will be
Sheriff’s Office and the community.
capable of detecting narcotics as well as
The unit is continually working to improve its efficiency, which is why K-9 deputies currently input their K-9 stats into the MDC in the patrol car, limiting the amount of time spent in the patrol station. With the assistance of K- 9 Trainer Ted Bowman, K-9 teams are constantly challenged with situational scenarios to test their case law knowledge and decision-
handler protection, suspect apprehension, and tracking. The new K-9 Handler is Deputy Bryan Love. The K-9 is yet to be evaluated and a kennel and other special equipment must be purchased once the K-9 arrives. The new K-9 Unit (1281) is equipped and ready for service, and is projected to start training on February 4, 2013.
making ability.
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29
SPECIAL ENFORCEMENT DETAIL The Special Enforcement Detail is a highly trained and specially equipped tactical team designed to resolve critical incidents including, but not limited to, hostage situations, barricaded suspects, armed suicidal subjects, crowd control, and high - risk warrant ser vice. The Special Enforcement Detail is a partnership between the Sheriff’s Office and the Atascadero Police Department and includes deputies, officers and sergeants under the authorit y of the special enforcement detail commander. The team was formed in the 1970s in response to the civil unrest occurring at that time. In 2003, the partnership with the Atascadero Police Department expanded the size of the team to deal with the increasing threat of terrorism. Call outs have included riots in Isla Vista
30
(Santa Barbara County), the Diablo Canyon Power Plant protests, riots in Los Angeles during the early 1990s, and the Mardi Gras riots in San Luis Obispo several years ago. The team has developed to become an integral part of emergency response in San Luis Obispo County.
vehicles. Most critical incidents are resolved without the use of force through negotiations carried out by the team’s tactical negotiators. The Special Enforcement Detail continues to train with a focus on terrorism and current tactical issues, providing the citi-
The team trains 10 to 20 hours per month with team members attending basic and advanced tactical courses throughout the state. The tactical equipment supplied to the team includes weapons, less lethal munitions and armored rescue
S a n L u i s O b i s p o C o u n t y S h e r i f f ’s o f f i c e
zens of San Luis Obispo County one of the best trained, equipped and motivated tactical teams in the state.
BOMB TASK FORCE The Bomb Task Force is accredited by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bomb Data Center in Washington, D.C. and is certified as a fully operational and fully equipped bomb squad, capable of rendering safe and disposing of improvised ex plosive devices, milit ar y ordnance, and commercially manufac-
Each Bomb Task Force team member is
In addition, the San Luis Obispo County
a certified bomb technician who passed
Bomb Task Force maintains a close rela-
a thorough background check conducted
tionship with the 30th Civil Engineer
by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Squadron (the Explosive Ordnance
Basic training includes attending a six-
Disposal Team at Vandenberg Air Force
week Federal Bureau of Investigation
Base) whose militar y jurisdiction
Hazardous Devices School, located at
includes San Luis Obispo County.
U.S. Army Base Redstone Arsenal Alabama. Training is ongoing and each bomb technician is a member of the International Association of Bomb Technicians and Investigators.
2012 Calls for Service The task force receives anywhere from 19 to 95 calls for service annually. In 2012, it responded to 32 explosive or bombrelated calls throughout San Luis Obispo
tured explosives.
Task Force Capabilities
The Task Force is comprised of four
This task force works in conjunction with
or Vietnam-era military ordnance, suspi-
County. Some of the calls included WWII,
members, two of which are Sheriff’s
various state and federal agencies to
cious packages, suspected explosive
Office Bomb Technicians, one Bomb
include the California Highway Patrol,
materials, illegal explosive pyrotechnics,
Technician from Cal Poly State Police,
State Parks and Recreation Department,
and hoax devices.
and one non-certified candidate techni-
Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau
cian from San Luis Obispo Police
of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and
Department (recently acquired). The
E xplosives, United St ates Post al
Task Force is commanded by a Sheriff’s
Inspectors, and Depar tment of
Office Senior Deputy (who is a 14 year
Homeland Security.
Enforcement Night at the SLO Farmers’
In addition, the task force is available for
SLO High School Career Day, and Grizzly
(who is the rank of Sheriff’s Commander).
informative speaking engagements, pub-
Academy Graduates.
The Task Force is governed by a Board of
presentations. Task force members are
Directors consisting of certain members
involved in consulting activities and train
of the Criminal Justice Administration
various segments of the community on a
Association. The Board of Directors are:
variety of bomb related topics.
San Luis Obispo County. A team mem-
• The County Sheriff
Support Team Concept
force is available on a 24-hour basis by
Although the Bomb Task Force is a
Sheriff’s Office at (805) 781- 4550
veteran), a Hazardous Devices Technician, and a Task Force Manager
• The Chiefs of Police of each municipal police agency within this County • Chief of Police, C alifornia State Polytechnic University
lic displays and communit y group
self-sufficient unit, it has an excellent working relationship with the Santa
The Bomb Task Force provided public demonstrations during Sheriff’s Family Day at the Ranch, Cops & Kids Day, Law Market, Sheriff’s Citizen’s Academy,
The Bomb Task Force has the primary jurisdictional responsibility to all explosive and bomb related incidents within ber is continuously on call and the task calling the San Luis Obispo County (non-emergency).
Barbara County Sheriff’s Department
Emergency situations may dictate a 9-1-1
Bomb Squad; assisting each other in
call through the local law enforcement
times of need.
agency of jurisdiction.
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31
RURAL CRIME UNIT The mission of the Rural Crime Unit (RCU) is to enforce laws and provide investigative services related to theft and property damage related to the agricultural and rural communities. To accomplish this goal, not only did the unit investigated 398 cases in 2012, but the RCU also proactively reached out to these communities with consistent contact via attendance at monthly meetings of SLO County Farm Bureau, Cattlewomen, Cattlemen, Farm Bureau Women, and Young Farmers and Ranchers groups. Because rural crime trends are always evolving, frequent con-
These meetings have also provided the
community as it relates to the economy in
opportunity to make crime prevention rec-
San Luis Obispo County, as well as inform-
ommendations, such as suggesting the
ing the class about the various types of
formation of a “Ranch Watch” (RW) group,
crime unique to the rural community.
or having a Ranch/Farm Security Survey
These educational programs help to
(RSS) conducted by our RCU. Another
inform the public, and assist the rural com-
valuable crime prevention tool is the appli-
munity by getting the word out about the
cation of an Owner Applied Number
vital role they play.
(OAN) to machinery and equipment. The OAN is an issued number that is unique to a particular farm/ranch owner and provides an opportunity for recovered stolen property to be returned to the rightful owner. The OAN’s are cataloged on a nation-wide database. In some cases the display of the OAN may be a deterrent to would be thieves. The application of the OAN is provided at no charge.
tact is essential in order to keep the rural
In a presentation for the 2012 Sheriff’s
community apprised of crime trends, as
Citizen Academy, the RCU conveyed the
well as hearing directly from them about
importance of the farming/ranching
what is happening in their specific area.
32
S a n L u i s O b i s p o C o u n t y S h e r i f f ’s o f f i c e
The increase in community awareness also results in improved reporting of suspicious behavior that may lead to criminal acts. For example, deputies responded to a case in which a local agriculture company was the victim of embezzlement,
resulting in the loss of nearly $1,000 in
related literature, including the children’s
In an effort to network with other agencies
fraudulent credit card cash advances. The
Official Farm Safety Manual coloring
and to keep informed of current rural crime
RCU determined that a former company
books. The RCU also spent 12 days at the
issues, one or more representatives from
employee had made the cash advances
California Mid-State Fair in July, sharing
the RCU attends trainings or meetings on
in three different banks in California.
this information with thousands of people.
a regular basis with the California Rural
The San Luis Obispo County District
It was also distributed at the Cops and
Crime Prevention Task Force (CRCPTF)
Attorney’s Office was able to successfully
Kids Day and at the Giddy-up Round-up
and the Central Coast Rural Crime
prosecute the suspect and the victims
Day, events that were specifically created
Prevention Task Force (CCRCPTF). The
were repaid their total loss through restitu-
to teach children about farmers, ranchers,
Sheriff’s Office regularly hosts the
tion, including the interest accrued on the
and the rural community in general. The
CRCPTF February meeting, allowing
cash advances.
RCU also shared this information at the
Sheriff’s Office personnel to attend and
annual Sheriff’s Family Day at the Ranch
raise their rural crime awareness level.
Over this past year, the RCU had numerous opportunities for community outreach,
event in September 2012.
distributing OAN brochures and other rural
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33
SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER UNIT The School Resource Officer Unit is made up of six full-time deputies and one reserve deputy. The deputies are active on school campuses, including continuation and community school campuses throughout San Luis Obispo County. These officers frequently assist with orderly business of everyday school activities, which include monitoring and interacting with students as well as building relationships and trust with students, school staff and parents. Deputies are often involved in providing individual and group counseling with students to aid staff in redirecting student behavior and initiate student accountability. School resource officers also assist school staff by regularly responding to a truant student’s home to transport them to school if necessary. Additionally, school resource officers may be asked to sit on a School Attendance Review Board (SARB) to assist with hearing behavior and truancy cases brought to the board by school administrators. They often respond and investigate suspected criminal activity on school campuses that sometimes warrant taking law enforcement action against suspect or suspects. In 2012, these officers participated in many different community events like Cops and Kids Day, Sheriff’s Family Day at the Ranch, and the MidState Fair in Paso Robles.
During the 2011/2012 school year, school
Both camps were a huge success, and
resource officers began teaching the Gang
were funded through community dona-
Resistance Education and Training
tions, which allowed all 110 students to
(GRE AT ) Program for Lillian Larsen
attend for free. Because of this outstand-
Elementary School in San Miguel and
ing achievement, school resource officers
Shandon Elementary School. After review-
will be teaching the GREAT Program
ing the success of the in-class program,
countywide in 2013 and organizing four
Sheriff-Coroner Parkinson decided to
additional GREAT Camps in the summer.
sponsor two GREAT Summer Camps at these schools, in addition to the GREAT Program. The weeklong camps were for
cer also taught a program called Teen
children in fourth through eighth grade.
Survival Skills to the Los Osos, Santa Lucia
During these weeklong camps, students
ers. This program covers topics regarding
participated in fun activities and three field
our judicial system, law enforcement, juve-
trips to the Harris Stage Lines, Paso Bowl
nile law involving alcohol and drugs. Being
and Cayucos Middle School eighth grad-
and the Charles Paddock Zoo. The stu-
in the classroom gives these deputies
dents also attended Law Enforcement Day,
unique opportunity to build trust and a
where the Sheriff’s Office and other law
positive relationship between the students
enforcement agencies displayed their spe-
and law enforcement.
cialty units for students to learn about and experience firsthand. The last day of the camp was Graduation Day, where inspirational guest speaker and former gang member Willy Stokes spoke with the students about the consequences of being in a gang and how he turned his life around.
34
In addition, the coast school resource offi-
S a n L u i s O b i s p o C o u n t y S h e r i f f ’s o f f i c e
BICYCLE PATROL TEAM
gloves, and bicycle shoes. In addition to all the bike specific equipment, deputies are required to carry all of the standard patrol equipment.
The Bicycle Patrol Team increases awareness of the Sheriff’s Office and flexibility of patrol functions for special circumstances including, but not limited to, parades and festivals. In utilizing the bike patrol, it is much easier for the public to approach and talk to a deputy on a bicycle, improving positive community interaction. When terrain, weather and scheduling permits, using bicycles may bolster day-to-day patrol. The team is comprised of 12 deputies and one sergeant from different stations throughout the county.
The bicycle patrol deputies train together as a team twice a year. Training improves basic bicycle riding skills and develops patrol-specific riding skills. In 2012, the Bicycle Patrol Team conducted two specific trainings, one of which took place at the Sheriff’s Office shooting range where the team incorporated live fire range training drills specific to bicycle patrol. Some of these drills included shooting while straddling a stationary bicycle, dismounting from a stationar y bicycle and engaging a target while shooting. The day culminated with the most difficult drill, when the bicycle patrol deputy contacts and pursues a suspect who is also on bicycle. At the conclusion of the bike pursuit, the deputy makes a high-speed emergency dismount on the shooting range and accurately engage a target with live fire. This is very challenging because of the deputy’s high heart and respiration rates after a bicycle pursuit,
Each Bicycle Patrol Team deputy is assigned a bicycle specifically designed for law enforcement applications and clearly marked for easy identification by the public. Patrol specific equipment includes; emergency lights (red and blue), a siren (loud), and a silent cog (no clicking noise which is common on most bikes when not pedaling). Deputies utilize bike racks that fit on Sheriff’s Office patrol vehicles that allow them to move about the county or transition rapidly from bike patrol to other calls for service.
fatigue from the hard ride, and difficulty of shooting in bicycle patrol gear. All Bicycle Patrol Team deputies at the training successfully completed the scenario. The Bicycle Patrol Team also attends community outreach events throughout the year. The largest of those events is the Fourth of July celebration in Cayucos, which starts early in the day with a parade. The bicycle patrol deputies patrol up and down the closed route easily, whereas patrol cars would be gridlocked. Later in the evening, as people flow into town to see fireworks, deputies on bicycles respond to calls for service faster than a patrol car could and at greater distances than deputies on foot. The same scenario plays out at other large events throughout the county on Memorial Day weekend at Lake Nacimiento, and the Morro Bay Harbor Festival. Individual bicycle patrol deputies are authorized to engage in bicycle patrol any time their schedule and area coverage allows.
Each Bicycle Patrol Team deputy is outfitted with a special uniform to meet the demands of patrolling on a bicycle. The uniform is wind resistant, breathable, highly visible, and marked with Sheriff’s Office patches and “SHERIFF” across the back for easy identification; and the pants have zip-off legs for easy conversion to shorts. Safety equipment includes a bicycle helmet, glasses,
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35
MARINE ENFORCEMENT UNIT
On average, the MEU conducts approxi-
The MEU works with the Sheriff’s Dive
mately 40 vessel stops each shift. These
Team in underwater search and recovery
result in all vessels being inspected for
of victims and evidence. The deputies
safety equipment and enforcement
work with San Luis Obispo County
action taken to correct the deficiencies
Rangers and Monterey County Rangers
as well as the violation for the stop.
on both Lake Lopez and Lake Nacimiento
In addition to enforcement issues, multiple medical aids, trauma calls and water
The Marine Enforcement Unit (MEU) is made up of one sergeant and three
the boating community.
rescues during the season, the deputies
The unit operates off of a 21-foot Rigid
also assisted with on-shore activities and
Hull Inflatable and a 27-foot aluminum
emergencies including vehicle accidents
hull vessel with a 25-foot off shore boat
and vegetation fires.
for open ocean missions. Unit members
deputy sheriffs. This unit is responsible
D ur in g the h o li d ay we eken d s of
for patrolling Lake Lopez as well as 165
Memorial Day and Labor Day, the lake
miles of Lake Nacimiento shoreline from
can have thousands of people on the
Memorial Day to Labor Day. The unit
water shore. The combined law enforce-
is also responsible for assisting other
ment assets for the water total four
Law Enforcement agencies in the county
to six uniformed officers for the county.
and state.
Boating under the influence and driving under the influence are a major focus of the unit.
36
to provide proactive law enforcement to
S a n L u i s O b i s p o C o u n t y S h e r i f f ’s o f f i c e
are trained in first aid, diving, vessel operation, accident investigation, towing, boating under the influence, seamanship, line handling and water safety.
PROPERTY ROOM
In 2012, the Property Room was responsible for the collection and destruction of 3,023 pounds of prescription medication as part of Operation Medicine Cabinet. Each Sheriff’s Office Patrol Station in the county has a designated drop box for residence to drop off unused or expired medications, keeping them from being abused or accidently ingested as well as protecting our water system from the untreated waste. The drugs are then taken to a licensed facility in Southern California for incineration. Construction is underway on the new property/evidence location, which will increase the Sheriff’s Office holding capacity by 45 percent. The projected completion date is March 2013. In 2012,
The Property Room is now staffed with
a storage area for evidence vehicles in
three property officers: one part-time
enclosed fencing was paved, an area
and two full-time employees. The part-
was cleared of other agencies’ vehicles,
time position is dedicated to purging.
and seatrains were moved to accommodate new layout of this area.
The new digital video system for the patrol vehicles is also being installed and used at the Sheriff’s Templeton patrol station. Impact on the property room will be great as it will no longer have to store physical DVDs from the patrol vehicles and discovery requests for this evidence will be able to be accessed digitally.
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37
TRAINING UNIT
The Training Unit provides training courses developed and instructed by members of the Sheriff’s Office and certified through the California Commission on Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) for sworn and civilian members. Personnel also attend training courses throughout the state of California, which are primarily instructed by other law enforcement agencies. The Training Office provides for continuous professional development of Sheriff’s Office personnel to ensure that they possess the technical expertise, knowledge and skills necessary to provide a professional level of law enforcement service to the citizens of San Luis Obispo County. In 2012, the Training Unit provided its sworn and civilian staff 11,564 hours of training, as well as training for 1,570 students, including those from the Sheriff’s Office, volunteers and local law enforcement agencies. Included in this training are the following highlighted courses and hours:
38
Class
Students
Hours
Arrest & Control
104
416
CPR & First Aid
161
1,288
Domestic Violence: Investigation
123
492
Internal Affairs Investigation
57
456
Tactical Firearms
101
404
POST Team Building Workshop
21
504
Domestic Violence and Law Enforcement)
199
199
S a n L u i s O b i s p o C o u n t y S h e r i f f ’s o f f i c e
STANDARDS AND TRAINING FOR CORRECTIONS UNIT
T h e S t a n d a r d s a n d Tr a i n i n g f o r
staff trained in newly enacted federal
Corrections Division (STC) develops and
statutes. New courses were developed
administers both current and future train-
in inmate transportation, basic firearms,
ing for the Custody Division. The STC
Internal Affairs, Oleoresin Capsicum
takes a proactive approach to correc-
Deliver y Systems, and Pepperball
tional best practices in order to maintain
Delivery Systems. The STC also renewed
a high level of correctional staff job profi-
its focus on updating the Training Officer
ciency and professional standards.
P ro g ram, c ommunic a b le dise ase
Highly trained correctional staff mem-
courses, CPR/first aid, defensive tactics,
bers are able to maintain a high level of
and gang awareness.
facility security, deputy safety and care for the welfare of county jail inmates.
In 2012, the STC provided more than 4,200 hours of professional training for
The state of California requires at least 24
130 Custody Division personnel. With a
hours a year of professional training for
proactive approach towards correctional
each correctional staff member who
best practices, the STC will continue to
ranks sergeant and below. In 2012, to
provide the tools for correctional staff to
address the ever-changing inmate demo-
maintain a safe and secure San Luis
graphic, the STC moved away from the
Obispo County Jail, ensuring the safety
status quo and took a more proactive
of our community.
approach to training. The first online training courses were developed utilizing e-rooms and forums to keep correctional
BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION UNIT
The Background Investigation Unit con-
the California Commission on Peace
sists of three investigators who conduct
Officers Standards and Training and
investigations of all sworn and civilian job
departmental statutes, regulations and
applicants at the Sheriff’s Office. The
procedures associated with the investi-
background investigator compiles a
gation process.
report that includes the applicant’s personal history, driver’s license record, warrant checks, credit history, Computer Voice Stress Analyzer examination, medical examination and psychological examination. This unit ensures that back-
In 2012, there were approximately 102 background checks completed and 38 new employees were subsequently hired. Also, 27 auxiliary volunteers had background checks completed.
ground checks are in compliance with
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39
Crime Prevention and Public Information Unit
fo r t h e a n nu a l C i t ize n s A c a d e my and Sheriff’s Auxiliary Volunteer Patrol Academy (SAVP), security surveys for home and business, public displays, as well as, children’s programs and Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) review of new developments and construction. The public information officer is the pri-
A function of the Operations Division at
mary liaison with local, national and
the Sheriff’s Office is the Crime Prevention
international media. The position develops
and Public Information Unit. Three Crime
programs and support services for media,
Prevention Specialists staff the office, and
reviews department web page programs
each is assigned to a specific area and cross-trained to support the entire organization. Assignments include rural crime, traditional programs, and public information officer. The rural crime specialist coordinates with the three rural crime deputies assigned to North, Coast and South patrol stations. The specialist presents crime prevention information and follow-up support to the ranching and agricultural communities, Farm and Ranch Watch programs, Owner Applied Number program, representing the Sheriff at local Cattlemen and Women groups, Young Farmers and Ranchers, Mid-State Fair, Ag Venture and Farm Bureau. This specialist also maintains the department Facebook page and provides still photo support to the PIO. On the traditional programs side, this crime prevention specialist maintains all the Neighborhood Watch programs in
and produces print, electronic and video presentations, public service announcements (PSA) and is liaison to the film and television industry. The public information officer assists in scheduling speakers from the Sheriff’s executive staff for service clubs and special event presentations.
“All initial reports are wrong.”
the unincorporated areas of the county, supporting and maintaining over 30 established groups and training others. In addition, the position is responsible
40
S a n L u i s O b i s p o C o u n t y S h e r i f f ’s o f f i c e
Rob Bryn, Public Information Officer EOW: March 1, 2012
Sheriff’s POSSE
the safety of their mount, or the public.
parades along with community functions
Members must possess above average
such as Cops and Kids Day, Pioneer Day,
horsemanship skills, which are evaluated
Sheriff’s Family Day at the Ranch, and
by a Mounted Proficiency Test that must
Law Enforcement Night at the SLO
be successfully completed annually to
Farmers’ Market.
maintain Posse membership.
The Sheriff’s Posse is a voluntary auxiliary unit of the Sheriff’s Office. These volunteers come from throughout San Luis Obispo County to augment the Patrol Division, perform search and rescue operations, and promote positive public relations by providing a ceremonial unit to participate in parades and other community functions.
professional service to the county and
ity, which are organized into teams.
contribute a great deal of their time,
These teams are patrol, search and res-
money and energy to their community
cue, and ceremonial. Team designation
and fellow citizens. Their service has
allows members to focus on one specific
resulted in a number of positive public
task, thereby raising the level of expertise
contacts, a closer relationship with
in each area. Members may choose to
other law enforcement entities, and
participate in more than one team. The Patrol Team’s purpose is to furnish a mounted assistance and support to existing Sheriff’s Office patrols at community functions and during special operations. The Search and Rescue Team conducts mounted search and rescue operations in conjunction with other auxiliary units. The Ceremonial Team provides positive pub-
United States and of good moral charac-
lic outreach for the Sheriff’s Office at
ter who are older than 18, reside in the
public events and parades. They also pro-
San Luis Obispo County, and pass a back-
vide a Mounted Honor Guard to carry the
ground investigation. Posse members
United States flag and California stated
must demonstrated good horsemanship
flag in these organized parades or events.
and physically sound. In addition, they must possess appropriate tack, a vehicle and trailer capable of transporting their mount, and equipment that can be accessed at a moment’s notice.
a visible Sheriff’s Office presence throughout the county.
qualified mount and rider to provide
Posse members must be citizens of the
skills and have a mount that is mentally
The Sheriff’s Posse strives to provide a
The Posse has three areas of responsibil-
In 2012, the Posse served in 20 separate functions throughout San Luis Obispo County, expending 972 man-hours. The Patrol Team participated in four events this year. The most challenging of these events was the Mid-State Fair in Paso
Members must maintain the physical fit-
Robles. This event is spread out over a
ness necessar y to ensure the safe
12-day period, with an attendance of
completions of assigned tasks, in any
m o re t h a n 3 6 3 , 0 0 0 p e o p l e. T h e
variance of weather or working condi-
Ceremonial Team participated in 14
tions, without jeopardizing their safety,
events. These events consisted of local
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41
DIVE TEAM With more than 100 water entries, the
Training for the year included:
Team members assisted the Narcotics
• Swift water rescue work
Division in the recovery of two Panga
• Helicopter deployment • Black water operations
There were 10 training sessions, the
• Search pattern practice
Diver Education Conference, an adminis-
• Deep diving operations
team currently consists of 27 members,
• Side-scan sonar training
two sergeants, four deputy sheriffs,
• Underwater pier and piling navigation
three correctional deputies, 13 public safety divers and six apprentice public safety divers.
August and November in which Dive
• A wreck dive
Dive Team had another busy year in 2012.
tration meeting, and three call outs. The
The next two happened in the months of
• Hazmat scenario training • Equipment repair
Boats along the shoreline in San Simeon. The first Panga boat contained 500 pounds of Marijuana and the other contained 500 gallons of fuel believed to have been also part of a clandestine attempt at smuggling illegal contraband into the country. January’s training took place at port San Luis on the wreck of the Kathy Anne, an abandoned derelict fishing vessel, 43
• Utilization training
feet underwater. Team members gath-
• Night diving
ered information on the vessels damage
• Sheriff’s Family Day at the Ranch participation
and positioning for a salvage team that raised it later in the year.
• The Diver Education Conference
Swift water training took place at the
There were three dive team activations.
Santa Margarita dam in Februar y.
The first one occurred in July and resulted in the recovery of the skeletal remains of an unidentified adult male found in a creek on the Chevron property off of Tank Farm Road.
Divers worked on rigging, flotation, scaling steep treacherous terrain and victim recovery. In April, Dive Team members organized the third annual Diver Educ ation Conference. There were five speakers and over 75 participants from five different law enforcement agencies across the state. Additional training took place at Montaña de Oro in April and it included Helicopter deployment. Team members practiced jumping out of CHP H70 into the ocean as well as being hoisted back into the hovering aircraft.
42
S a n L u i s O b i s p o C o u n t y S h e r i f f ’s o f f i c e
Training for May, June and July took the
In September, Dive Team members dis-
Divers also participated in night diving
dive team to Lake Nacimiento and
played special dive equipment at
and under water pier navigation in
included, injured diver rescue and first
Sheriff’s Family Day at the Ranch. They
November 2012. They practiced com-
aid treatment scenarios, black water
also enjoyed answering questions from
pass navigation in a dark environment
navigation, search patterns, target loca-
the citizens of San Luis Obispo County.
t i o n a n d r e c o v e r y, e q u i p m e n t familiarization exercises and side-scan
The Dive Team also went to Diablo
sonar deployment and training.
Canyon Nuclear Power Plant for Deep
In August, team members were at
intake structure in October. A dive to 100
Dive qualifications and a dive on the
Laguna Lake in San Luis Obispo where
feet on the wave rider buoy tested the
they performed Haz Mat diving scenar-
team members’ abilities to withstand
ios. Divers were dressed in full Hazmat
cold sea floor temperatures and work in
dive suits and made numerous dives in
deeper depths.
aided by their tenders and communications via the Amcommand. December’s meeting was spent scheduling the training for 2013, administration procedures and equipment maintenance.
water with less than five inches of visibility to locate submerged targets. Upon returning from the dive, members were decontaminated by their tenders and analyzed by Dive Team Medics.
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43
AERO SQUADRON
2012 Aero Squadron Flight Training
Rescue Support Operations
Operations
In August 2012, the Aero Squadron
The Aero Squadron conducted three
provided airborne search and communi-
flight-training exercises during 2012 in
The Aero Squadron is a voluntary group
cations relay support to locate a missing
addition to one classroom emergency
of pilots and non-pilot observers at the
gentleman just south of Cambria. One
first aid certification class conducted in
Sheriff’s Office that provides airborne
aircraft and ground support vehicle Unit
August by qualified Aero Squadron and
search, rescue, surveillance and special-
1798 were on-scene for approximately
g ro u n d S e a rc h a n d R e s c u e U ni t
ized transportation functions.
one hour when the ground search team
personnel.
Member pilots utilize their privately
located the missing person.
In May, a training exercise was con-
owned aircraft, currently 10 fixed-wing-
2012 Aero Squadron Personnel
ducted by two aircraft and aircrews out of
models, for mission support operations.
Transportation Flights
Oceano Airport to simulate a narcotics
Aircraft owners are reimbursed for aviation fuel and oil only used in conjunction
44
2012 Aero Squadron Search and
The Aero Squadron provided two person-
surveillance incident by locating and identifying a suspect vehicle parked in
with an assigned mission.
nel transportation round-trip flights
Another key asset in the Aero Squadron’s
Coroner Ian Parkinson, his spouse and
inventory is its new 2006 Ford F-150 sup-
the chief deputy to Weed Airport in
port vehicle recently outfitted with
Northern California in August to attend
appropriate equipment to support squad-
the annual state sheriffs’ meeting. Again
In September, the Aero Squadron sup-
ron operations including UHF, VHF and
in August, the Aero Squadron trans-
ported the annual Fall Joint Operational
airband VHF transceivers for communi-
ported the chief deputy to Sacramento to
Readiness Drill with the SLOSAR and
cation with other county, state and
deliver documentation just signed by
Posse groups at Santa Margarita Ranch’s
federal assets.
the county’s Board of Supervisors rela-
airstrip. All aircraft operations were con-
tive to the new women’s jail facility. That
ducted for the first time in the history of
flight returned to San Luis Obispo the
the Aero Squadron. Prior to the exercise,
same day.
the Aero Squadron planning staff worked
during 2012. The first transported Sheriff-
S a n L u i s O b i s p o C o u n t y S h e r i f f ’s o f f i c e
the Huasna area. The exercise was cut short due to poor visibility and low ceilings along the coast, which compromised flight safety.
closely with members of the ground Search and Rescue Unit as well as the
2012 Asset Utilization Actual Flight Search and Rescue Mission
2.5 flight-hours
Actual Flight Search and Rescue Mission
20 man-hours
Sheriff’s Office Personnel Transportation
13 flight-hours
In December, the Aero Squadron con-
Sheriff’s Office Personnel Transportation
16 man-hours
ducted a practice exercise out of Oceano
Flight Training Missions
23 flight-hours
Airport utilizing five aircraft to enhance
Flight Training Missions
221 man-hours
Ground Mission Training, Logistics and Coordination
108 man-hours
Posse to plan mission scenarios and ensure the exercise’s success.
the precision of the Sheriff’s Office ground target latitude and longitude recording skills. Marking the target’s precise location for ground search crews can
Ground Event Support Functions
71 man-hours
Monthly meetings
1056 man-hours
be difficult because if the relative high speed of the aircraft. This exercise helps the pilots practice marking target ground
2012 Totals
locations using their airborne GPS.
38.5 flight hours
2012 Public Relations Operations
1,492 man-hours
The Aero Squadron also participated in various community outreach events in
Current Assets (As of December 2011 Membership Level)
2012, including
Active Members consisting of pilots and observers
32
Licensed Pilots
24
Member-owned aircraft: Fixed-Wing
12
• The annual Law Enforcement Night at the SLO Farmers’ Market in May. • A special event at Madonna Inn in
(estimated current market value = $3,145,000.)
September featuring aircraft from various county and state law enforcement agencies.
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45
Search and Rescue Team (Sar)
• Mountain Bike Team (urban and rural) • Technical Rope Rescue Team (high and low angle) • K9 Team (area searching, trailing, and
San Luis Obispo County saves approximately $2,000 per hour, or $1.5 million per year, because it utilizes a volunteer search and rescue team. The all-volunteer San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s
cadaver) • Medical Team (18+ members rated at EMT or higher) • Tracking Team
Office Search and Rescue (SLOSAR)
• “Project Lifesaver” Team
Team is trained and certified in Title 22
• San Luis Obispo County
first aid and CPR, the Incident Command
Communications (MIGU) and CHP
System (ICS), communications, exten-
H-70
sive search techniques and procedures, rescue skills, the map, compass and Global Positioning System (GPS) and wilderness tracking and survival. Many members strive for perfection and have acquired advanced skills in search theory, management, operations, logistics management, advanced GPS computer mapping, and advanced technical rescue. Some members have c re ate d trainings that have b een re c o g nize d n ationw id e and others are developing trainings that will enhance and increase the skill levels of their teammates. SLOSAR’s is currently 65 members
Because of SLOSAR’s training and expertise, they also support the Sheriff’s Office by participating in crime scene
• 4X4 and ATV (quad) teams • Communications / Dispatching
Search Missions In 2012, SLOSAR received 29 callouts for
area. The hiker was located after a two-
vehicles available and supported by
day search; he had been stranded for
SLOSAR are:
three days on an extremely steep
• A 26’ communication-command vehicle • Detailed (topo) county maps & computer mapping • 4X4 tow vehicle
lost hiker in the Ragged Point wilderness
embankment. Unable to climb out by himself or with the aide of Search and Rescue members, the hiker was air lifted to safety by a California Highway Patrol (CHP) helicopter (H-70). The Ragged Point Search lasted two
• Generators and light towers
days. This search included 32 SLOSAR
• 40’ medical trailer
team members, assistance from the
• ATV / Quads and
• Ground search teams (urban and rural)
Luis Obispo Christmas Parade.
Some of the specialty equipment and
in ground searching, most members
teams include:
Ranch, Cops and Kids Day, and the San
searches, with the most recent being a
• Support trailers
team within the SLOSAR Team. These
such as Sheriff’s Family Day at the
searches and equipment support.
strong. Although they are all proficient have chosen to be part of a specialty
adventure races and community events
Salvation, San Luis Obispo County Communications (MIGU), CHP’s H-70; Sheriff ’s Aero Squadron, Sheriff ’s
• Mountain bikes
Auxiliary Patrol; Cal Fire; CARDA, San
Community Involvement
Luis Obispo County Communications
SLOSAR members are very involved in
Luis Obispo local recourses, mutual aid
the community, and throughout the year
was provided by search and rescue
they provide medical stand-by and first
teams from Monterey, Santa Barbara,
aid stations for special events like the
Ventura, Fresno, and Kern counties, as
(MIGU), and CHP H-70. In addition to San
well as Bakersfield.
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S a n L u i s O b i s p o C o u n t y S h e r i f f ’s o f f i c e
Sheriff’s Auxiliary Volunteer Patrol (SAVP)
The Sheriff’s Auxiliary Volunteer Patrol
Aside from patrolling the streets, SAVP
(S AV P ) was est ablished to assist
members perform more than 500 vaca-
the Sheriff’s Office in meeting its law
tion checks annually and regularly assist
enforcement mission. SAVP is a partner-
the Crime Prevention Unit in preparing
ship between law enforcement and the
materials for public displays and events to
public, which serves to increase the
enhance crime prevention education, as
impact that the Sheriff’s Office has in pre-
well as attend those events. Under the
serving our high quality of life in San Luis
direction of the SAVP Graffiti Abatement
Obispo County.
Coordinator, SAVP members help remove graffiti or “tags” throughout the entire county, and have spent more than 700 hours on these efforts. SAVP members regularly assume new duties and assignments as requested. One of these new assignments is changing batteries for the Project Lifesaver Program, which has resulted in more than 362 hours of service for this effort. Annually, this dedicated group travels nearly 60,000 miles throughout the county, completing these various tasks and requests. SAVP members have also
Citizen volunteers trained in a variety of law enforcement topics, such as obser-
volunteered their time to complete 308 hours of training.
vation skills, radio procedures, and first-aid, provide supplemental patrol in our neighborhoods and business districts, contributing more than 4,000 patrol hours per year and an additional 2,000 hours with various other types of assignments. These volunteers act as additional “eyes and ears” of the Sheriff’s Office and help identify criminal activity and increase public safety.
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EXPLORER PROGRAM Explorer Post 781 is comprised of young men and women between the ages of 14 and 21 who are interested in discovering more about law enforcement. The Explorer Program currently maintains a roster of 18 members. Post 781 is officially chartered through the Boy Scouts of America, and four advisors lend their expertise in training post members, or explorers, under the supervision of a sargeant, while various deputies assist with specialty trainings. Explorers gain experience by participating in many community activities and public service events throughout the year. These include, but are not limited to, assisting at the Veteran’s Day and Memorial Day services at the Los Osos Valley Memorial Cemetery, participating in the Cops and Kids Day activities in Arroyo Grande, handing out and affixing
competing against explorers from vari-
Weekly meetings are held on Thursday
ous agencies in the western United
evenings, when the explorers receive
States. Explorers might don the Mc Gruff
scenario-based training and discussions
Crime Dog costume to share an anti-
that include law enforcement duties
drug message with county youth, or
such as handling domestic violence
assist at the Sheriff’s Day at the Ranch
calls, suspicious subject contact, vehicle
activities. They also attend the annual
traffic stops, felony car stops, report tak-
Law Enforcement Memorial Night activi-
ing, oral inter views, and firearms
ties at Thursday Night Farmers’ Market in
handling and training. They conduct
San Luis Obispo, provide youth leader-
building searches, apply fingerprinting
ship and small group training sessions at
techniques, handcuffing techniques
the Gang Resistance Education Program,
and suspect pat downs, engage in
and assist at the California Mid-State Fair
active shooter scenarios, hostage nego-
Sheriff’s Booth. They may also be seen
tiations, D.U.I. sobriety examinations,
The explorers are expected to enter the
volunteering for sting operations with the
and receive an introduction to canine
three-day annual Explorer Competition at
Alcoholic Beverage Control Agency, and
handling techniques. Additionally,
the California Mid-State Fairgrounds
partnering with deputy teams for foot
explorers are familiarized with radio
w h e re t h e ir sk ill s a re te s te d by
patrol at the Fourth of July Fireworks
codes and transmissions.
D.A.R.E. bracelets at many venues.
Show in Cayucos, along with many patrol unit ride-alongs throughout the year.
Each participant is expected to maintain high levels of moral standards, learn discipline and the day-to-day functions of a sheriff’s deputy. They will carry these characteristics on in their personal lives and, should they so choose, in their careers in law enforcement.
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S a n L u i s O b i s p o C o u n t y S h e r i f f ’s o f f i c e
Watch Commander’s Desk: (805) 781-4553 General Business Line (Dispatch): (805) 781-4550 Main Jail Information: (805) 781-4600 North Patrol Station: (805) 434-4290 Cost Patrol Station: (805) 528-6083 South Patrol Station: (805) 473-7100 FOR ALL EMERGENCIES PLEASE DIAL 911
SLO Sheriff’s Office 1585 Kansas Avenue San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 www.slosheriff.org Design: Verdin
Contact information
SLO Count y Sheriff’s office