2015
ANNUAL REPORT
SLO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE 2015 ANNUAL REPORT
TABLE OF CONTENTS MESSAGE FROM SHERIFF-CORONER
4
CANINE UNIT
30
MESSAGE FROM UNDERSHERIFF
5
SPECIAL ENFORCEMENT DETAIL
31
GANG TASK FORCE
31
PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS UNIT 6 BACKGROUNDS
7
RECORDS AND WARRANTS
8
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY UNIT
9
HIGH TECH CRIMES 9 FISCAL SERVICES
10
CORONER’S OFFICE 11 CIVIL DIVISION
12
CUSTODY
13
CRIME LAB
16
DETECTIVES
18
SEXUAL ASSAULT UNIT
20
NARCOTICS UNIT 32 BOMB TASK FORCE
34
HONOR GUARD
35
RURAL CRIMES UNIT
36
MARINE ENFORCEMENT UNIT
38
BICYCLE PATROL
40
SCHOOL RESOURCE DEPUTIES
41
PROPERTY ROOM
42
CRIME PREVENTION 43 SEARCH AND RESCUE 44 SHERIFF’S AUXILIARY VOLUNTEER PATROL 46
SAFE TEAM 21
SHERIFF’S POSSE
47
NORTH PATROL STATION
22
AERO SQUADRON
48
SOUTH PATROL STATION
23
EXPLORERS
51
COAST PATROL STATION
24
DIVE TEAM
52
WATCH COMMANDER
26
AWARDS
54
CONTACT
55
DISPATCH 27
SHERIFF I AM VERY PROUD TO ONCE AGAIN PRESENT a public report of the accomplishments
when San Luis Obispo was one of the original counties when California became a state. Even though many things have changed since that time, being the “peace keepers” of the county has not. We will continue to serve this role to the best of our abilities and provide safety for our citizens.
and activity of the Sheriff’s Office. The men and women of the Sheriff’s Office continue to be leaders in the community even during challenging times. Our goals have always been to deliver exceptional service and treat people with dignity and respect.
EVEN THOUGH MANY THINGS HAVE CHANGED SINCE THAT TIME, BEING THE “PEACE KEEPERS” OF THE COUNTY HAS NOT.
In November 2014, the voters of California passed Proposition 47, which
As you will see in the following pages of
redefined some nonviolent offenses as
this report, the Sheriff’s Office continues
misdemeanors rather than felonies. This
to work hard and remain transparent to
measure required a change with the way
the citizens that we serve every day.
we conduct business, both in the field and in the Custody Division. Change can be a very difficult thing to embrace, unless you have the right attitude. It is my opinion that our men and women have the right attitude. The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office was started in 1850, at a time
4
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
IAN PARKINSON
San Luis Obispo Sheriff-Coroner
UNDERSHERIFF SERVING IN MY POSITION AS UNDERSHERIFF, usually I hear all of the accolades as well as the criticisms and complaints about
sacred trust by our community. Peace officer powers do not come from within; they come from that sacred trust.
WE ARE NOT ONLY L AW ENFORCEMENT PROFESSIONALS, WE ARE
our agency and its members. Thankfully
ALSO MEMBERS OF THE
and not surprisingly, I hear considerably
COMMUNITIES THAT WE
more about the positive impacts and impressions made by the women and men here at the Sheriff’s Office. The law enforcement profession is tasked with preserving freedom and democracy. In a society as complex as ours, this takes dedicated professionals like the men and women we have working at the Sheriff’s Office. We are not only law enforcement professionals, we are also members of the communities that we have pledged to protect. We are fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, sons and daughters who work under extraordinarily difficult circumstances. We are committed to a profession that provides a high level of service and demands personal sacrifice. As members of the law enforcement profession, we have been granted a
HAVE PLEDGED TO PROTECT. As members of the law enforcement community in San Luis Obispo County, we are extremely fortunate to live, work and recreate in an area where community members and law enforcement
and the personal sacrifices they make
professionals work together to
each day that builds that sacred trust.
strengthen that sacred trust. Here at the
Your efforts are not unnoticed and are
Sheriff’s Office, we abide by the Law
appreciated beyond words.
Enforcement Code of Ethics and the guiding principles of honesty, integrity, professionalism, honor and respect. We realize the importance of accountability in fostering trust with our community. I want to thank the men and women who work and volunteer at the Sheriff’s Office
TIM OLIVAS
San Luis Obispo County Undersheriff
for their continued hard work, dedication
LEAD THE WAY ANNUAL REPORT 2015
5
PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS UNIT THE PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS UNIT WAS CREATED IN FEBRUARY 2011. In 2013, the unit assumed the training responsibilities for the entire agency. Sheriff Parkinson believes that there is a
The goals of the Professional Standards
compared to 2014. However, a review
and Training Unit are to provide the best
of the total use of force incidents during
training possible for our employees and
Sheriff Parkinson’s administration
to ensure professional law enforcement
reveals a somewhat static number with
conduct by our agency.
the exception of an upward spike in 2013.
The investigation of personnel
PURSUITS
complaints is a primary function of the Professional Standards Unit. In 2015,
Vehicle pursuits have leveled off with 13
the Sheriff’s Office experienced a signif-
pursuits in 2015. This remains to be a
icant reduction in citizen complaints.
significant reduction of 41 percent compared to 2012, when there were 22
COMPL AINTS
strong correlation between the training
The number of citizen complaints
and the professional standards
plummeted in 2015 to 22 citizen
functions. When employees make
complaints. This equates to a 57
mistakes, often times a training
percent drop in citizen complaints
component may be strengthened to
during Sheriff Parkinson’s
ensure that these mistakes do not recur.
administration from 2011 through 2015.
The Professional Standards and Training
Five of these 22 citizen complaints were
Unit is comprised of a commander and
sustained and the vast majority were
a training coordinator for patrol and
unfounded. This low number of citizen
custody personnel. Each training
complaints validates the professional
coordinator must ensure that Sheriff’s
conduct displayed by the men and
Office employees have achieved
women of the Sheriff’s Office.
compliance in either California’s Peace
USE OF FORCE
Officer Standards and Training or Standards and Training for Corrections. Most of the Sheriff’s Office employees have greatly surpassed the minimum amount of hours required by the state.
6
Similar to the drop in citizen complaints, reportable use of force incidents were also reduced in 2015 by 17 percent
pursuits. There were 12 pursuits in 2013 and 10 pursuits in 2014. Sheriff Parkinson and his management team have encouraged deputies to engage in vehicle pursuits only when necessary and to always follow the Sheriff’s Office strict guidelines regarding vehicle pursuits.
PATROL AND CIVILIAN TRAINING The Training Unit is divided into two sections, the Patrol and Civilian Training Section and the Custody Section. Each section is headed by a training coordinator who reports to the training manager. The Patrol and Civilian Training Section provides training courses developed and instructed by members of the Sheriff’s
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
BACKGROUNDS Office and certified through the
The Training Unit also coordinated
examination and psychological
California Commission on Peace
countywide training for blood alcohol
examination. The Background
Officers Standards and Training (POST)
Draeger test devices, Emergency Vehicle
Investigation Unit ensures background
for sworn and civilian members. Patrol
Operators Course training in conjunction
checks are in compliance with the
deputies and dispatchers are mandated
with the Allan Hancock Academy, canine
California Commission on Peace
to receive 24 hours of POST certified
liability, firearms, 11-99 trauma, gang
Officers Standards and Training,
training within a two-year period. Once
awareness and instructor development
departmental statutes and regulations,
again, the San Luis Obispo County
for custody personnel.
and procedures associated with the
Sheriff’s Office was at 100 percent
investigation process.
POST compliance with all applicable
THE BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION UNIT CONSISTS
employees. This is a rarity in the state of California and a result of the exemplary efforts of the Patrol and Civilian Training Section training coordinator. During 2015, the Training Unit achieved the following notable accomplishments: •
Installed a new Force Options
responsible for the investigation of all
Simulator at the Cal Fire Training
sworn and civilian applicants within the
Facility in Los Osos, which
Sheriff’s Office.
APPROXIMATELY 90
difficult real-world situations.
BACKGROUNDS WERE
Hosted an “Active Shooters:
COMPLETED IN 2015.
Behavioral Indicators and Threat Management Principles” seminar presented by FBI Special Agent Jeff Cugno at the Clark Center in Arroyo Grande, attended by over 200 individuals including local school officials and fire and law enforcement personnel.
positions have been filled: Correctional Deputy: 7 Deputy: 9 Correctional Technician: 11 Senior Account Clerk: 1 Cook I: 1 Dispatcher: 4 Administrative Services Officer: 1
provides training for the most •
of three investigators who are
As of November 2015, the following
Drug and Alcohol: 1 Department Automation Specialist III: 2
The background investigator compiles a
Temp Legal Clerk: 1
report that includes the applicant’s
Temp Account Clerk: 1
personal history, driver’s license record, warrant checks, credit history, Computer Voice Stress Analyzer
Temp Lab Assistant: 1 Various Volunteers: 14
Examination results, medical
LEAD THE WAY ANNUAL REPORT 2015
7
RECORDS & WARRANTS THE RECORDS AND WARRANTS UNIT CONSISTS
In 2015, the Records and Warrants Unit
Many hours have been spent assisting
accomplished a 98 percent compliance
the Information Technology Unit with
rate of registered sex offenders and 100
the new local warrant system, which
percent compliance rate of registered
should be implemented in 2016.
of ten full-time and two part-time
an increased number of concealed
employees. This unit is responsible for: • •
•
recently completed automating the storage of all Concealed Carry Weapons
state and national databases
applications.
Registration of sex/arson/gang/ Processing extraditions for all
from the Records and Warrants Unit for “Most Wanted Wednesday” social media postings, which have proven to be an ongoing success.
IN 2016 INCLUDE COMPLETION OF THE NEW
Intake and processing of
LOCAL WARRANT SYSTEM,
concealed weapons permits,
FINAL DE - COMMISSIONING
licenses
Information is gathered and provided
THE GOALS FOR THE UNIT
county agencies
explosives permits, and business
OF THE MAINFRAME , CONTINUED CROSS -
•
Processing fingerprint applicants
•
Processing legal documents (including over 1,000 annual requests for documents through the California Public Records Act)
8
weapons permit applications and
Entering criminal warrants into
drug offenders •
arson offenders. The unit has processed
TRAINING OF FOUR NEW EMPLOYEES AND SUSTAINING GREAT SERVICE TO THE PUBLIC.
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
IT AND HIGH TECH CRIMES THE SHERIFF’S OFFICE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY UNIT
COMPUTER FORENSICS IS THE PROCESS
efficiently and progressively supports the
that can be presented in a court of law.
devices having the capability to hold
The Sheriff’s Office has a dedicated
more time for examination.
of obtaining evidence from all types of digital media (computer hard drives, CDs, DVDs, cell phones, tablets etc.)
technical needs of the Sheriff’s Office. Located in the main headquarter’s
phones that were examined by detectives. This represents an 18 percent increase in the number of devices examined over 2014, not including the cell phones done by detectives, and a 97 percent increase in the amount of data examined in 2014. This is a result of electronic media increasingly more data, which requires
computer forensics lab facility, and has
building, this unit is comprised of six
trained personnel in both online crime
employees. The newest department automation specialist position was added in 2015 to support the future vision of
investigations and computer forensics.
IN 2015, THE FORENSICS
biometrics and person identification.
L AB COMPLETED
We work alongside Sheriff’s Office
EX AMINATIONS ON OVER
personnel and the County Information
260 DEVICES CONTAINING
Technology Department on many projects. A few examples of the projects
ELECTRONIC MEDIA
we have been involved with in 2015 are
EQUALING ALMOST 57
the new Warrant System, implementing
TERABY TES OF DATA .
the latest technology in security camera and body camera systems and a stateof-the-art video visitation system that allows people from out of the area to visit with a family member in the jail via the Internet.
In 2015, the forensics lab completed examinations on over 260 devices containing electronic media equaling almost 57 terabytes of data. This does not include an extensive number of cell
LEAD THE WAY ANNUAL REPORT 2015
260 57 97%
Device Examinations
Terabytes of Data
Increase in Amount of Data over 2014
9
FISCAL SERVICES THE FISCAL DIVISION
QUICK FACTS
supports the Sheriff’s Office in areas of accounting, including accounts payable and receivable, reconciliations, grant
•
Budget for FY 2015–16: $66 million
•
General Fund support: $38 million
•
Funded programs including state and federal aid: $25 million
•
Other revenue, including fines and fees: $3 million
reporting, quarterly financial reporting and budgeting. The division is
comprised of an administrative services
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
manager (ASM) who oversees the
FY 14 –15
•
Fiscal Division and supervises the
Provided better reporting to
F Y 15 -16
OBJECTIVES •
management that included
accounting staff along with preparation and monitoring of the annual budget, quarterly reporting, and fiscal •
Continue to involve management in the budget
monthly, quarterly and
process for each of the four
annual budget information
divisions
and statistics
management of various grants. In addition to the ASM, the division
•
Continue to work on new
Involved management in the
processes for better
includes: 1) an accountant II who
budget process for each of
efficiency and improved reporting
monitors the budget for custody,
the four divisions including
including the Inmate Welfare Fund and
monthly, quarterly and
Civil Division’s billings, reconciliations,
annual budget planning, as
account analysis and various reporting,
well as monitoring in more
2) an accounting technician in charge of
detail
receivables, payables, reconciliations and monthly journal entries, and 3) two senior accounting clerks responsible for accounts payable, purchase requisitions and purchase orders.
•
Streamlined the purchasing process
•
Worked with administration
•
acquiring new grants and other funding opportunities. •
Streamline the budget process
•
and upper management on developing a committee to keep current on all grant and funding opportunities
10
Continue to work on
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
Implement policies and procedures for purchasing and budget
CORONER’S OFFICE IN ADDITION TO HIS ROLE AS SHERIFF,
reviewed the causes of death provided
specialize in determining cause and
by the treating physician before
manner of death.
certification of the death certificates.
INVESTIGATION UNIT
San Luis Obispo County. Sheriff-
REVIEWED 1,513
Coroner Parkinson and his deputies perform the role of coroner in all jurisdictions within the county of San Luis Obispo. The California Government Code mandates the coroner to
It is the responsibility of the coroner to determine the necessary level of inquiry into any death falling in the jurisdiction of the Coroner’s Office. The level of
REPORTABLE DEATHS IN
inquiry is determined on a case-by-case
THE COUNT Y OF SAN
basis. Of the 243 cases in 2015 in which
LUIS OBISPO.
the Coroner Unit conducted further investigation, 159 autopsies were
investigate the cause and manner of death in most cases where a death occurred outside of a hospital, outside the presence of a physician, and in all cases involving homicides, suicides, accidental deaths and deaths due to suspicious circumstances. In most cases, a patrol deputy will
In 2015, the Coroner Investigation Unit
performed, 70 medical inspections
reviewed 1,513 reportable deaths in the
were conducted, and 13 of the deaths
county of San Luis Obispo. Of those,
were certified by medical records. Of
1,270 were hospice cases (an increase
the deaths investigated by the Coroner
of 40 over 2014). Patrol deputies
Unit, 79 were natural deaths, 49 were
responded to a total of 684 coroner
suicides, four were homicides, 77 were
cases countywide (an increase of one
accidental, and the remainder are still
over 2014). Of the 684 cases that
under investigation.
deputy sheriffs responded to, the
respond to a report of death and
Coroner Unit conducted further
conduct an investigation. For cases
investigation in 243 of those cases (an
where additional investigation and expertise is needed, the Sheriff’s Office the Detective Bureau.
reportable deaths, coroner detectives
detectives are highly trained and
IN 2015, THE CORONER
Ian Parkinson is the elected Coroner of
has a Coroner Investigation Unit within
part-time legal clerk. The three assigned
increase of nine over 2014). Although all 684 cases were not investigated
The Sheriff’s Coroner Investigation Unit is proud to serve the citizens of San Luis Obispo County during the difficult times associated with death.
beyond the patrol deputy level, all cases were thoroughly reviewed by coroner
The Coroner Unit is comprised of a
detectives who then certified the death
sergeant, three detectives, and a
certificates. Of the remaining 829
LEAD THE WAY ANNUAL REPORT 2015
11
CIVIL DIVISION THE SHERIFF’S OFFICE CIVIL DIVISION SERVES
The Civil Division also provides security
within the San Luis Obispo County
services for the San Luis Obispo County
Courthouse at 1050 Monterey Street,
Superior Courts, the Paso Robles
Room 236 in San Luis Obispo,
Courthouse and the Juvenile Court.
California. Public counter hours are
There are 15 deputy sheriffs and one
Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM,
sergeant assigned as bailiffs to the
excluding holidays. Civil process forms
superior courts. The Civil Division also
and frequently asked questions can be
civil process in the manner prescribed
oversees the security checkpoints
found online at the Sheriff’s Office
by law. The majority of procedures and
leading into the county courthouse, the
website, www.slosheriff.org.
laws governing the service and
Paso Robles Courthouse and the
execution of civil process are set forth in
Juvenile Court.
the California Code of Civil Procedure. The Civil Division works in conjunction
CIVIL PROCESS INCLUDES
with the civil courts in San Luis Obispo
THE SERVICE OF SUMMONS
County as well as civil courts throughout the state of California in the execution and service of process. It is
AND COMPL AINTS, SMALL CL AIMS DOCUMENTS,
the goal of the Civil Division to serve all
RESTRAINING ORDERS,
processes in a timely manner while
SUBPOENAS AND EVICTIONS.
maintaining an impartial position
For the time period of December 15,
between each party involved.
2014 to December 15, 2015, the
Civil process includes the service of
following civil processes were handled
summons and complaints, small claims
by the five civil deputies and four legal
documents, restraining orders,
clerks assigned to the Civil Division:
subpoenas and evictions. Other services include levies on wages, bank
•
552 Evictions
accounts, personal property, real
•
630 Levies
•
4,139 Services of Civil Processes
property or any other asset of the judgment debtor.
552 630 4,139
The Sheriff’s Civil Division is located
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SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
Evictions
Levies
Services of Civil Processes
CUSTODY THE CUSTODY DIVISION SAW ANOTHER SHIFT this year with our inmate population due to Proposition 47, also known by its ballot title: “Criminal Sentences/Misdemeanor Penalties/Initiative Statute.” The proposition was a referendum passed by voters in the state of California on November 4, 2014. The measure was also referred to by its supporters as the Safe Neighborhoods and Schools Act. It redefined some nonviolent offenses as misdemeanors, rather than felonies. The measure’s effects were to convert many nonviolent offenses, such as drug and property offenses, from felonies to misdemeanors. These offenses include shoplifting, writing bad checks, and drug possession. The measure also required that money saved as a result of the measure would be spent on school truancy and dropout prevention, victim services, mental health and drug abuse treatment, and other programs designed to keep offenders out of prison and jail. The measure included exceptions for
offenses involving more than $950 and
is difficult to sort out what impacts each
criminals with records including violence
of these programs has had individually.
or sex offenses. The measure both
However, we recognize the cumulative
affects future convictions and allows for
impact. From January 1, 2015 to
people currently incarcerated to petition
December 2, 2015, the total number of
for re-sentencing.
bookings was: 10,175, and 10,180
Many of the arrestees this past year were released on their own recognizance
releases. The average daily population was 542.
because of the reduction of a felony to a
The Custody Division saw several
misdemeanor. We saw an immediate
promotions and newly hired employees
drop in our Average Daily Population
this year, as well as many staff members
(ADP) as a result of Proposition 47. Over
who were recognized for their
time, we are anticipating the ADP will
outstanding dedication and
increase as subjects are left in the
professionalism to the Sheriff’s Office.
community to continue with criminal
Every few months, the Sheriff’s Office
activity until they are brought into
holds General Assembly Ceremonies to
custody on more serious crimes or
recognize these people. Sheriff
increased addictions.
Parkinson also presents awards to
At this point, it is still too early to make a judgement on how this legislation will make an impact in the long-term. It is also recognized that during the same period when Proposition 47 was enacted,
employees for incidents such as: lifesaving awards, Medal of Valor and exemplary service.
WOMEN’S JAIL EXPANSION
the courts started an early disposition
The new Women’s Jail is scheduled to
court, the judges started using split
open in June 2016. The Women’s Jail
sentencing, and the District Attorney’s
Expansion project consists of 46,000
Office started a Misdemeanor Diversion
square feet of new construction to house
Program. While all of these programs
and provide program space for 198
have had impacts on the jail population, it
women inmates, on 1.5 acres within an
LEAD THE WAY ANNUAL REPORT 2015
13
administrative segregation pods. Immense emphasis is placed on the role of classification to ensure the safety and well being of staff and inmates. The staff assigned to the Classification Unit is a team of hard working, dedicated individuals who work diligently to ensure the jail is operating safely. existing seven acre County Jail Facility. It
health conditions, substance abuse
includes two housing units with 38,000
issues, an assessment of charges
square feet to support direct supervision
present and past, current employment
of inmates. In addition, a medical and
and gang affiliation, to name a few.
program building with 8,000 square feet
Classification then assesses each inmate
will be constructed to provide space for
based on these factors as well as gender
medical, dental, and mental health
and age, and assigns housing accordingly.
services and other support programs for the entire jail population. The existing jail’s antiquated security electronic system that uses unsupported technology will be upgraded to a state of construction of the new housing unit is at 55 to 65 percent completion.
of the Custody Division Canine Dutch. Senior Correctional Deputy Fischer is his handler and routinely has Dutch conduct random “sniffs” in all areas of the Custody Division. Dutch is highly trained to detect various types of drugs and will alert Senior Correctional Deputy Fischer once he smells an illegal substance. This
IMMENSE EMPHASIS IS
helps in maintaining and controlling
PL ACED ON THE ROLE OF
contraband, which in turn increases
CL ASSIFICATION TO ENSURE THE SAFET Y AND
the art security system. Building
Another facet of classification is the use
WELL BEING OF STAFF AND INMATES.
officer safety. Throughout this past year, they assisted many other agencies including the Federal Bureau of Investigations and federal prisons. Senior Correctional Deputy Fischer and Dutch train weekly with the Sheriff’s Office
CL ASSIFICATION Once an inmate is housed, he or she is The Classification Unit is made up of six
provided with an Inmate Rulebook,
correctional deputies, one senior
which includes instruction on accessing
correctional deputy, and one correctional
medical treatment, commissary,
sergeant. The Classification Unit assigns
telephone usage, visitation, and
appropriate housing to inmates,
opportunities on various programming
investigates jail issues, works with
and chore responsibilities. It also includes
Canine Unit and several law enforcement agencies. With the addition of the Custody Canine and the Secure Pass Body Scanner, which detects drugs that have been swallowed or concealed under clothes, the amount of narcotics coming into the facility has drastically reduced.
outside agencies to solve cases, and
information on the Prison Rape
helps to control gang activity. The unit is
Elimination Act. The San Luis Obispo
responsible for assigning a security
County Sheriff’s Office has a zero-
classification to each inmate after being
tolerance policy regarding sexual abuse
booked into the jail and considers various
In 2015, the Court Services
or sexual harassment. We strive to
factors when determining an inmate’s
Transportation Unit transported 9,712
ensure our detention facilities protect
classification and placement. The jail’s
inmates to court. They safely completed
inmates from all forms of sexual
population can fluctuate from 500 to 700
over 220 transports of inmates
misconduct, including harassment from
inmates per day.
throughout the state of California.
staff and other inmates.
These transports included trips to
During the booking and classification
Housing units in the jail are gender
process, inmates are asked a series of
separate and include low security
questions to identify mental and physical
dormitories, higher security pods, and
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COURT SERVICES TRANSPORTATION
state hospitals, state prisons and other county jails.
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
As the Custody Division has evolved over
candidates were selected to participate
the past few years, we have seen a need
in the 16-week pre-apprenticeship
for better ways to transport inmates to
training class. All three candidates
court. As a result, we recently added a
completed the class and subsequently
new 19-passenger van. This is the first
obtained employment. Due to the initial
van we have had that has three separate
success of this program, it was offered
compartments to transport inmates to
again in November. Two more inmates
court. This allows us to make fewer trips
entered the apprenticeship training, and
to and from the courthouse, improving
are once again hopeful of their prospect
overall efficiency and safety while
for earning a living and contributing to
reducing fuel usage.
society. The Jail Programs Unit also collaborated with the Breaking Bread
JAIL PROGRAMS UNIT
Bakery to create a unique vocational training opportunity that allows an inmate
In 2015, the Jail Programs Unit continued to expand inmate programs and opportunities to address risk factors affecting recidivism. In-custody substance abuse treatment and mental
to have hands-on experience with
upon release. In 2015, the Jail Programs
creating exceptional baked goods,
Unit initiated the Jail to Community (J2C)
ordering supplies and interacting with
reentry case management collaborative.
the public.
J2C is based upon the premise that
health services were expanded to
Another barrier to successful reentry is
include more direct services and
the lack of any identification upon release
individual mentoring. This year, particular
from custody. Released inmates with no
focus was placed on employment
ID are often unable to access services,
preparation and vocational training for
much less obtain employment. This can
successful reentry into our community.
easily contribute to repeated arrests and
The Jail Programs Unit collaborated with
homelessness. Additionally, inmates
America’s Job Center of San Luis Obispo
who are leaving the county jail and
to bring employment skills workshops to
entering into short or long term
inmates at the Honor Farm facilities.
residential substance abuse treatment
Inmates who attended these events
programs must have some form of ID in
offender reentry must not only involve the jail, but other community agencies and organizations as well. Considering that many of the inmates are already involved with multiple social service agencies, or are eligible for services, the Jail Program Unit works with community partners to facilitate in-reach and postrelease planning. Another program initiated this year was “Books Behind Bars,” a joint effort
learned workplace skills such as
order to enter treatment. In 2015, the
communication, teamwork, and problem-
between the Sheriff’s Office and the San
Sheriff’s Office implemented the
solving. They also learned the elements
Luis Obispo County Library. This project
Temporary Identification Card program.
of having a good work ethic such as
began as the vision of one of our
Qualified inmates may submit a request
consistency, taking responsibility, and
correctional deputies who catalogued an
to the Jail Programs Unit to obtain a
completing assignments on time.
impressive book collection at the
temporary photo ID card that will serve
Women’s Honor Farm facility. The
In February of this year, the Jail Programs Unit partnered with Plumbers and Pipefitters Local Union No. 403,
until they’re able to obtain permanent
program then became a reality with the
identification such as a state ID, driver’s
help of San Luis Obispo Library staff,
license, or Social Security card.
America’s Job Center of California, and
Reducing recidivism and improving
Cuesta College to begin a welding
reentry outcomes require that county
apprenticeship program for selected
partners and stakeholders work together
Honor Farm inmates. After an intensive
to address the challenges of rehabilitating
screening and selection process, three
offenders, both while incarcerated and
who conduct a secure one-for-one book exchange throughout the facility. In the coming year this program will be expanded to include services such as literacy training and reading circles.
LEAD THE WAY ANNUAL REPORT 2015
15
CRIME LAB THE SHERIFF’S OFFICE CRIME LABORATORY
268
personnel are responsible for processing evidence and responding to crime scenes in cases occurring within the county. The lab also conducts
Cases for Evidence Analysis
analyses on controlled substances and analyzes biological samples for driving
1,000 800 Breath Alcohol Tests
Blood Samples
under the influence (DUI) cases. The CAL-ID program for the county is housed in the Crime Lab and manages identification and biometric programs. It also operates the county’s Automated Fingerprint Identification System. In 2015, the Forensic Alcohol Laboratory provided services for 11 different law enforcement agencies throughout San Luis Obispo County. The laboratory was responsible for maintaining the department’s 40 Draeger Alcotest 7510 breath alcohol instruments, which are in use at 16 different locations in the county. During 2015, almost 1,000 evidential breath alcohol tests were conducted using the
16
department’s breath instruments. In addition, the Forensic Alcohol Laboratory analyzed approximately 800 blood samples for alcohol content. Nearly 20 percent of those blood samples were sent on to Central Valley Toxicology for other analyses. The Chemistry/Toxicology Lab provides services for police departments throughout the county. This section of the Crime Laboratory also provides services to the California Men’s Colony, San Luis Obispo County Probation, San Luis Obispo County Suspected Abuse Response Team and all of the Sheriff’s Office patrol stations. During 2015, San Luis Obispo Police Department was also added as a customer. Services provided to all of these agencies included the testing of pills, powders, crystals, liquids and leafs for the presence of controlled substances and urine drugs of abuse analysis. The chemistry section of the Lab analyzed over 3,000 suspected controlled substance samples and the toxicology section analyzed close to 800 urine samples.
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
The Crime Lab received more than 268
occasions during the year. These
program also hosted a weeklong
cases for evidence analysis. These
scenes ranged from search warrant
advanced training course for latent
processes included biological collection,
services, narcotic investigations and
fingerprint examiners, hosting students
electrostatic detection of indented
burglaries, to animal cruelty, sexual
from as far as Colorado.
writing, hair and fiber collection and
assault, human trafficking, robberies,
comparisons, tool mark comparisons,
equivocal deaths, vehicle manslaughter
ballistic analysis, serial number
and homicides. In addition, new leads
restoration, as well as tire and footwear
on cold case investigations were
impression comparisons and trace
forensically examined.
evidence analysis (168 cases from outside agencies, 100 from the Sheriff’s Office). Most cases contained multiple items that required evaluation. The examination of an individual item of evidence may necessitate multiple types of processing. For example, one firearm may require DNA collection, gunshot residue collection, blood search and photography, fingerprint process, serial number restoration, and ballistic comparisons. More than 530 individual items were forensically processed. An additional 137 latent fingerprint cases were submitted, resulting in more than 8,600 fingerprint examinations. Two forensic specialists provided assistance at crime scenes on 69
The Cal-ID program undertook several critical steps to acquire mobile ID capability for the county, which will equip law enforcement, corrections and coroner personnel with tools to rapidly
Courtroom testimony remains an
identify individuals in the field by
important component of the Crime
fingerprints. This will enhance
Laboratory’s processes. While not
investigative capability, expedite the
every case requires courtroom time,
identification of deceased persons, and
some cases use expert testimony to
facilitate the arrest of wanted subjects.
provide the judge or jury with information gleaned from evidence examinations.
New Cal-ID initiatives in progress include providing cameras capable of capturing microscopic evidence, and
In 2015, the CAL-ID program began
acquiring new technology solutions to
implementation of the replacement of
increase efficiency in analyzing
some obsolete and end-of-life ID Lab
fingerprint evidence.
technology infrastructure. Upgrades were also completed for all fingerprint livescan systems in the county, and training was provided in the proper use of livescan systems to 44 members representing eight different law
In the coming year, the dedicated staff of the Crime Lab will explore additional measures and techniques to improve services while avoiding backlogs in processing requests.
enforcement agencies. The Cal-ID
LEAD THE WAY ANNUAL REPORT 2015
17
DETECTIVES molestations, child pornography, non-
investigations. New cases requiring
financial elder abuse, and sexual
detective follow up are constantly
registrants. The Crime Lab, forensic
coming into the division on a daily basis.
THE SHERIFF’S OFFICE DETECTIVE DIVISION
specialists, and the Cal-ID coordinator
is responsible for the investigation of
Detective Division also conducts
criminal cases that go above and beyond
follow-up investigations for all missing
the scope and resources of the Patrol
persons, runaway juveniles, and other
Division. This includes all misdemeanor
cases as required by law or as assigned.
and felony crimes for both local and state laws where other agencies do not have the primary investigative responsibility. These cases may require a large amount of resources for an extended period of time. They may need investigators with specialized training, knowledge and equipment. Detectives are able to focus on these investigations without the interruptions of handling calls for service
provide technical evidence collection and analysis to all agencies in the county. In addition to criminal investigations, the
ted to the District Attorney’s Office and filed in court. Some cases make it through the court process in a relatively short amount of time, while others may take years. The following are only two examples of the many cases in which
2015, the Detective Division successfully
detectives were called to conduct an
investigated four homicides, a large scale
investigation and appear in court to testify.
child abuse case that involved outside area law enforcement officers, a child molestation case involving a well-known public figure as the suspect, two large embezzlement cases, and a large commercial burglary ring involving foreign nationals from the Los Angeles
Detectives in the Detective Division are
Coroner’s Office with in-custody death
assigned to a specific area of
investigations. There are other cases that
investigations. General crime detectives
are not “major investigations” but still
are responsible for investigating crimes
require detective resources, such as
against persons and property. The sexual
critical or at-risk missing persons,
assault detectives are responsible for
runaway juveniles, and suspicious death
18
must also appear in court to testify on investigations which have been submit-
Among the many cases investigated in
as a patrol deputy.
area. Additionally, detectives assisted the
crimes that are sexual in nature, child
While carrying their case load, detectives
CASE #1 On March 14, 2015 Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to a Paso Robles residence regarding a male gunshot victim lying in the driveway. Deputies were on scene within a very short time and began rendering first aid, while also cordoning off the crime scene for the arrival of detectives. Detectives and forensic specialists responded to the scene and began processing evidence and conducting interviews. Detectives interviewed the parties at the residence
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
and determined the suspect had intentionally shot the victim. This was corroborated through an eyewitness.
weeklong “bootcamp” at Camp San Luis
When the victim went to intervene he
Obispo. This “bootcamp,” run by two
was subsequently shot several times by
Southern California law enforcement
the suspect. The investigation to date
agencies, has utilized the Camp SLO
has consumed hundreds of combined
facilities for several years. The law
hours within the Detective Bureau. With
enforcement agencies rented the space
the help of the forensic specialists,
from the camp and provided their own
Crime Laboratory and Coroner’s Office,
instructors for the weeklong program.
sufficient evidence and probable cause
The camp was designed to instill
was developed and compiled in order to
leadership qualities and discipline in inner
file a complaint of murder against the
city and troubled youth via tactics utilized
suspect. The suspect bailed out of jail
in military style bootcamps. During the
and while awaiting his trial, he and two
weeklong camp, several students were
other individuals committed another attempted murder in an adjoining county.
sentenced to 40 years to life by a jury of his peers. He was transferred to the custody of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation where he remains in their custody to serve out his time.
travelled to Southern California on
Angeles area who had attended a
between the suspect and his wife.
degree murder in the local case and was
On May 28, 2015 deputies were which identified a victim from the Los
argument had occurred in the garage
suspect was found guilty of second-
investigation into the criminal acts
assigned a suspected child abuse report,
The investigation determined that an
He was arrested in that case as well. The
CASE # 2
physically struck according to the
perpetrated by their officers. Detectives numerous occasions to interview victims, witnesses, and suspects. The investigation led to a search warrant for one of the agencies and two law enforcement officers’ residences. Detectives have spent in excess of 853 hours on this case. Sufficient evidence and probable cause was developed and compiled in order to file a complaint against the suspects. Ultimately, Ramey Warrants were issued for the three law enforcement officers identified as suspects. They were subsequently arrested, posted bail and remain free while they await trial. They are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
deputy’s initial investigation. Detectives
These cases showcase the ability of our
were advised of the investigation and
detectives to take a case and, through
proceeded to follow up on the allegations.
cooperative efforts, solve it in a relatively
As the investigation proceeded, it was determined that the children were subjected to physical abuse, emotional abuse and in some cases, neglect. Detectives worked with the Southern
short time. These cases could not be compiled without the assistance of the Crime Lab, Coroner’s Office, and all the men and women who comprise the Detective Bureau.
California agencies to facilitate the
LEAD THE WAY ANNUAL REPORT 2015
19
SEXUAL ASSAULT UNIT THE SEXUAL ASSAULT UNIT
In 2015, investigators: •
Assisted in child forensic interviews, multiple homicides
consists of three investigators and is
and other investigations outside
responsible for investigating cases of
of sexual assault
physical and sexual abuse, extreme cases of domestic violence and nonfiduciary elder abuse within the unincorporated area of the county. The
•
Assisted in search warrant preparation and service
•
Conducted CVSA examinations in criminal and background
unit also assists outside agencies in their
investigations
investigations. The investigation of
dedication by the Sexual Assault Unit led to the suspect being found guilty and given a long term prison sentence. In addition to their caseload, training the community and educational outreach have become a priority. These specialized trainings have assisted RISE (Respect / Inspire / Support / Empower) advocates who provide support for
Worked with crime lab forensic
victims of sexual abuse and domestic
highly specialized and require expert
technicians in analyzing pieces of
violence, SART (Sexual Assault
training as mandated by the California
evidence as they pertained to
Response Team) Nurses, Rotary Club
Penal Code. Investigators also provide
sexual assault
and other non-profit organizations. The
Worked with computer forensic
Sexual Assault Unit also assists the
physical and sexual abuse cases are
training to mandated reporters of child abuse, community groups and military. The sexual assault investigators handle an average of more than 200 cases per year as they relate to sexual abuse, elder
•
Unit and prosecuted by the District Attorney’s Office. The hard work and
•
technicians in analyzing electronic/computer-based evidence as it related to child pornography cases
Sheriff’s Office as it relates to initial child or adult sexual assault investigations. As part of the outreach process in 2015, the Sexual Assault Unit attended SART
abuse and child pornography. Individual
Also last year, investigators received
cases can take several months to fully
advanced training in human trafficking
public awareness events like Walk-A-
investigate and can last up to a year in
investigations and will be working in
Mile in Her Shoes, a public benefit for
the court process.
conjunction with Santa Barbara and
victims of sexual assault.
Ventura counties in the formation of a tricounties task force. This year, a high profile case regarding human trafficking was investigated by the Sexual Assault
20
Advisory Board meetings and various
The unit will continue providing thorough investigations as they relate to these crimes and advocate for victims and their families in the coming year.
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
SAFE TEAM SEXUAL ASSAULT FELONY ENFORCEMENT (SAFE) team members are responsible for verifying the residency of all registered sex offenders within the
o Advise the registrant of any new changes in the law o Ascertain if the registrant or their property has been the subject of a crime due to their being a registrant o Enforce the appropriate probation and parole conditions In 2015, the SAFE Team accomplished:
Sheriff’s jurisdiction and enforcing the
•
300 compliance checks
appropriate codes when those
•
21 possible sex offender registration violations (19 filed with the District Attorney’s Office)
•
Two registered sex offender investigations
•
Eight search warrants
•
Seven investigations of Internet crimes against children (three people arrested, three charges filed)
registration laws have been violated. The SAFE Team receives information regarding violations of sex offender registration laws from several sources including: •
•
•
Tips received directly from the public or through the California Megan’s Law website, www.meganslaw.ca.gov Electronic comparisons of every registered sex offender booked into the San Luis Obispo County Jail, regardless of charge. This ensures that registrants are current and in compliance with registration requirements Periodic and unannounced visits, “compliance checks,” to all registrants to achieve the following:
o Verify that the registered address is valid and that the registrant actually resides within that address o Determine if the registrant has moved without giving notice to the Sheriff’s Office
•
Sex registration training for department trainees
•
Forensic exams for more than 100 cellular telephones, 35 memory cards and 25 thumb drives
•
Imaging of 10 external hard drives
We have noticed a steady increase in registered sex offenders released into the community that register with the San Luis Obispo Sheriff’s Office. Throughout 2015, the Sheriff’s Office averaged registering approximately 300
sex offenders, more than half of the 535 registered sex offenders that live throughout the county. Efforts are made to interview all new registrants that come to our agency. During this interview, we discuss the registrant’s requirements with them and answer questions. Sex offenders who are newly released from prison are visited by members of the SAFE Team and reminded of their registration responsibilities and requirements. SAFE Team members provide immediate response to complaints, inquiries, and information regarding registered sex offenders in the community. We provide community notifications of sexually violent predators (SVPs) and high-risk sex offenders when warranted. This is done through media releases or by going door-to-door and passing out informational flyers. Sex offenders who have warrants for their arrest are posted on the Sheriff’s Office website as well as on their local Crime Stoppers website. SAFE Team members also work closely with victim/witness advocates through the District Attorney’s Office. The team called on to do in-service training for our rape prevention centers and local school districts, as well as give presentations to community service organizations when requested.
LEAD THE WAY ANNUAL REPORT 2015
21
NORTH STATION THE SHERIFF’S NORTH STATION
violations of probation and possession
suspects were identified and arrested
of illegal contraband.
and a large quantity of property was
The Sheriff’s North Station handled
to several homicides in 2015. In
approximately 22,000 calls for service
response to one of these homicides,
North Station deputies also responded
recovered and returned to its rightful owners. The Sheriff has expanded the Resident
and self- initiated activities in 2015.
which occurred in Templeton, deputies
Deputy Program in the North Station
Despite an increasing workload the dep-
arrived on scene just minutes after the
area of responsibility, adding a second
uties of the Sheriff’s North Station have
fatal shooting. They quickly took the
Resident Deputy assigned to Heritage
continued to maintain excellent
suspect into custody, secured the
Ranch/Oak Shores to join the existing
response times and engage in high qual-
scene and gathered witness state-
Resident Deputy assigned to Creston/
ity enforcement of State and Local
ments prior to the arrival of Sheriff’s
California Valley. These positions help
Laws. In keeping with past experience,
Detective Division investigators. Addi-
reduce response times and place depu-
property crimes, gang related activity
tionally, North Station deputies and
ties in areas that, in the past, would
and drug offenses continue to generate
Sheriff’s Special Enforcement Detail
rarely see a patrol car.
a majority of our calls for service.
members successfully took into cus-
To combat the growing number of gang related problems, North Station deputies organized a directed patrol operation utilizing members of the sta-
tody a homicide suspect in rural Paso Robles this past winter. This suspect had been involved in a daylong stand off after she had shot at members of the Special Enforcement Detail and refused
The deputies of the Sheriff’s North Station remain committed to the Sheriff’s Office Mission and serving the citizens of our North County communities.
to surrender for over 10 hours.
SOUTH STATION
bation Officers and California State
Rural Crime deputies, with the assis-
South Patrol Division covers 850 square
Parole Agents. This multi-agency opera-
tance of patrol personnel, broke a
miles with a population of approximately
tion targeted documented gang
burglary ring that was focusing on the
40,000 people living in the communities
members and drug offenders in the
theft of equipment and vehicles from
of Oceano, Nipomo, unincorporated
Shandon and San Miguel communities.
many wineries and ranches in the North
Arroyo Grande, Los Berros, New
The operation resulted in nine arrests for
County. Through outstanding crime
Cuyama, Huasna Valley, Blacklake-
a variety of charges, including warrants,
scene and follow-up investigation,
Callender and The Woodlands. The area
tion and the Sheriff’s Gang Task Force, as well as San Luis Obispo County Pro-
22
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
SOUTH STATION extends from Pismo Beach to the Santa
partnership with impacted property
Education and Training) curriculum,
Barbara County line, and from the Pacific
owners. County Jail trustee laborers
which teaches students about the
Ocean to the Kern County line.
restored the impacted areas to their
dangers associated with criminal street
pristine pre-encampment condition at
gang participation.
The patrol station for this area is located at 1681 Front Street in Oceano and is
minimal public cost.
The Sheriff’s Office completed the 2015
currently staffed with a commander,
In 2015 the Sheriff’s South Station
two sergeants, four senior deputies, 20
changed the location of the Nipomo
law enforcement and medical aid calls
sheriff deputies and two station clerks.
Report Writing room. The building that
within the area of responsibility
At the end of 2015, the South Station welcomed Canine Deputy Gonzo and his handler Deputy Mark Souza. Gonzo is a german shepard and has been trained in narcotics detection, protection duties, and tracking. Gonzo is one of six Canine deputies deployed within the Sheriff’s Office, originally paid for through narcotics asset forfeiture funds. Similar to 2014, homeless camps have continued to impact the communities of Oceano and Nipomo. Utilizing community resources specializing in homeless outreach support and mental health services, transient persons in both communities continue to be offered relocating and other assistance. Transient encampments and serious environmental concerns were abated in
calendar year having logged over 21,600
had been the report room for the past
attributed to the South Patrol Division.
several years became inadequate for the
From those calls and field initiated
needs of deputies working the Nipomo
contacts, south county deputies were
area so the Nipomo Report Writing
involved in more than 198 drug
room was relocated to a more modern
enforcement arrests, 26 driving under
building in the center of town. This has
the influence (DUI) arrests, and more
enabled the South County patrol
than 847 total arrests.
deputies to continue to provide excellent service to the Nipomo area and allows Nipomo residents a place to meet with deputies working the Nipomo area when needed. In 2015, the Sheriff’s Office continued to strengthen South County community partnerships through the creation of additional Neighborhood Watch and continuing Rural Crime programs. Lucia Mar Unified School District students in the unincorporated areas completed the third year of G.R.E.A.T (Gang Resistance
198
Drug Enforcement Arrests
26 847 DUI Arrests
Total Arrests
LEAD THE WAY ANNUAL REPORT 2015
23
COAST STATION THE COAST PATROL DIVISION
handled were the Amgen Tour of Califor-
a cooperative agreement between the
nia finish in Avila Beach and the annual
Land Conservancy, the Cambria Com-
Cayucos Fourth of July celebration.
munity Service District and the Sheriff’s Office, deputies took inmate work crews from the county jail and cleaned up the
provides law enforcement service for all
INMATES COLLECTED
unincorporated areas on the coast from
APPROXIMATELY 240 CUBIC
Avila Beach to the Monterey County line, west of the Santa Lucia mountain range. This area encompasses the communities of San Simeon, Cambria, Cayucos, Los
Obispo. Coast Station deputies also provide assistance as requested to the municipal police departments of Morro Bay and San Luis Obispo, as well as to the Cuesta College and Cal Poly Univer-
Luis Creek was reported by the farmer
THE CREEK , RESTORING IT
who cultivated an adjacent plot of land.
TO A PRISTINE STATE .
The patrol station is located at 2099 10th Street in Los Osos, and is currently staffed by one commander, three sergeants, four senior deputies, 22 deputy sheriffs, and two legal clerks.
deputies assigned to the coastal division; among the major events the deputies
24
found numerous illegal camps with wide-
Transient encampments continued to
using the creek itself as a sanitation sys-
present a challenge in 2015 as coastal
tem. Furthermore, they had attempted to
communities faced new threats from
dispose of trash by burning it, which had
encampments in the form of fire danger
caused several fires in nearby trees. Dep-
and environmental pollution.
uties served the occupants of the camps
of an illegal encampment on public land that was the source of a fire. Deputies conducted surveys of the creeks and surrounding land, and located numerous illegal encampments that posed a fire danger to Cambria. Deputies posted
2015 provided many challenges to patrol
Deputies made a survey of the area and spread evidence that transients were
In June, the Sheriff’s Office was notified
sity police departments.
In July, a large illegal encampment in San
YARDS OF WASTE FROM
Osos, Baywood Park, Avila Beach, and the unincorporated area of San Luis
abandoned homeless encampments.
notices to vacate the encampments and then made frequent follow up visits to ensure the areas were cleared. Through
with notices to vacate and provided information on the social services available to them. The farmer agreed to pay for six large roll off containers, and over the course of four days, inmates collected approximately 240 cubic yards of waste from the creek, restoring it to a pristine state. The Sheriff’s Office is continuing to monitor the creeks and is working with the Department of Fish and Wildlife to keep illegal campers out of the protected habitat.
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
Coast deputies responded to several
deputies secured the area, evacuated
one warning shot into the air, but the sus-
high profile calls in 2015, one of them
the victim and then searched for the sus-
pect continued his advance while
being an attempted kidnapping on the
pect, who was located in the backyard of
simultaneously beating on cars parked
Ontario Ridge Trail. The female victim
the home, dead from a self-inflicted gun-
on the street. Deputies were able to de-
was walking the trail when she passed a
shot wound.
escalate the situation and arrest the
man who grabbed her and attempted to drag her into the bushes. The victim broke free and ran toward the Pirate’s
Deputies also responded to a shots fired call where they learned that a suspect,
weapon and for making criminal threats. The Coast Station handled a rash of trail-
Cove parking lot where she summoned help. Later, a Sheriff’s deputy on patrol
suspect for assault with a deadly
head vehicle burglaries in 2015. While
COAST DEPUTIES
patrolling the Bob Jones trailhead, depu-
Bluff Trail who matched the description
RESPONDED TO SEVERAL
ties contacted a man sitting in a vehicle
of the suspect. The deputy followed the
HIGH CALLS IN 2015, ONE OF
man up the trail, stopped him and took
THEM BEING AN ATTEMPTED
saw a man on the nearby Shell Beach
him into custody. Following an investigation by Sheriff’s detectives, the suspect was charged with one count of
around midnight. The deputies saw drug paraphernalia in plain sight and searched the car, which yielded several small bags
KIDNAPPING ON THE
containing methamphetamine and a
ONTARIO RIDGE TRAIL
large number of high-end electronics equipment including laptop computers,
attempted kidnapping.
tablets, and camera equipment. The sus-
During a separate call for service, depu-
arguing with his girlfriend, made threats
pect was arrested for transporting or
ties responded to a report of a woman
against her parents, which they over-
selling methamphetamine and the elec-
being attacked by her roommate with an
heard. The parents became fearful and
tronics were seized for observation to
axe. The victim suffered wounds from
retrieved a shotgun for protection. When
determine if they were stolen property.
the attack, but managed to escape the
the father went to check on his daughter
residence and run to a neighbor’s house
the suspect advanced toward him,
for help. As deputies arrived they heard
armed with a hammer. The father fired
shots fired inside the home. The
LEAD THE WAY ANNUAL REPORT 2015
25
WATCH COMMANDER THE WATCH COMMANDER’S OFFICE
California State Warning Center, which
business hours, on weekends and
provide communications to our county
on holidays.
is located in the Emergency Operations
critical incidents and natural disasters,
Center directly adjacent to the Sheriff’s Dispatch Center. Sheriff’s sergeants man the office 24 hours per day. Sheriff’s commanders staff the office during the evening hours to increase the field supervision of patrol deputies. The
in the event of a natural disaster or terrorist attack. The watch commander also handles all local notifications during including but not limited to the county’s Bomb Task Force, Sheriff’s Special Enforcement Detail, Search and Rescue, Dive Team, Aero Squadron, and the Sheriff’s Detective Division.
Watch Commander’s Office is the
THE WATCH COMMANDER’S
single point of contact for all county
OFFICE IS THE SING LE
departments and services after
Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant’s primary law enforcement point of contact during any unusual events or critical incidents occurring at the plant. During an emergency, the watch commander is authorized to activate the County Emergency Alert System (EAS) including Reverse 9-1-1, area sirens, and EAS messages on commercial radio and television.
POINT OF CONTACT
business hours, on weekends and
FOR ALL COUNT Y
on holidays.
DEPARTMENTS AND
The Watch Commander’s Office has the principal responsibility of overseeing dispatch services and patrol operations on a daily basis. The office also serves as the point of contact for the entire county with the Federal National Warning System (NAWAS) and the
26
The Watch Commander’s Office is the
SERVICES AFTER BUSINESS HOURS, ON WEEKENDS AND ON HOLIDAYS. The Watch Commander’s Office is the single point of contact for all county departments and services after
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
DISPATCH THE SHERIFF’S DISPATCH CENTER is a Primary Public Safety Answering Point responsible for all 9-1-1 calls in the county, Arroyo Grande and Morro Bay, as well as communication and dispersal of information between the public, law enforcement, paramedics and numerous county and state departments. The Dispatch Center is also responsible for receiving calls for service from the public and dispatching law enforcement, probation, ambulances, EMS helicopters and other agency personnel to the respective calls, which contributes to the several thousand incoming and outgoing calls handled by the Sheriff’s Dispatch Center each year. The Sheriff’s Dispatch Center is staffed with EMD (Emergency Medical Dispatch) certified dispatchers 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The Sheriff’s
Dispatch Center has the responsibility
system; the system was installed to
of activating the Reverse 9-1-1 system
handle the next generation of 9-1-1.
in times of emergency. Within minutes, this system can notify hundreds of residences by telephone with a voice recording stating the emergency involved and what action (if any) should be taken. The system’s database is updated monthly using current records from the 9-1-1 database. The Reverse 9-1-1 system has been activated nine times this past year for emergency notifications in numerous areas of the county, relating to the Cuesta Grade Fire, the Santa Margarita Fire, the Farroll Avenue Fire in Arroyo Grande, and for critical missing individuals and safety issues like down powerlines. Technologically, the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) mobile and mapping program is a Tritech system. The Tritech software gives dispatchers the ability to create incidents and direct the closest,
In 2015, the Sheriff’s Dispatch Center answered 46,808 9-1-1 phone calls. The calls were answered in ten seconds or less over 99.7 percent of the time; the California State standard is 90 percent. The Dispatch Center handled over 212,397 phone calls and created 127,364 incidents for service. The Dispatch Center created and dispatched approximately 26,689 medical calls for service. In addition to their daily duties, dispatchers are also involved in community outreach. The dispatchers attend special events and the county fair, handing out information including the importance of 9-1-1 and when this number should be used. The children get to meet Red E. Fox, the 9-1-1 for Kids mascot.
most appropriate emergency personnel to calls for service. The 9-1-1 system is an AIRBUS Vesta VoIP 9-1-1 phone
LEAD THE WAY ANNUAL REPORT 2015
27
ANINE UNIT
379 690 111 Deployments
61 31
Assisted Other Agencies
Searches
Apprehensions
Arrests
1
Apprehension Bite
1,305 2,390
4,979 $11,270
426
$65,862
Grams of Cocaine
Grams of Methamphetamine
Grams of Heroin
Grams of Marijuana
Positive U.S. Currency
Negative U.S. Currency
CANINE UNIT THE SHERIFF’S OFFICE CANINE UNIT was established in January 2001 with its first Narcotics Detection Canine, Jake. Jake worked through 2009 until he passed away from cancer, leaving a lasting impression.
The mission of the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office Canine Unit is to support department operations by providing the expertise necessary to effectively search for suspects, missing persons, narcotics and evidence, while enhancing officer safety and providing outstanding service to the community. In January 2010, the Sheriff’s Office purchased our second Narcotics
improve the efficiency of the Canine
suspects, and track and locate
Unit we are giving the canine deputies
missing persons.
the ability to input their canine stats into
Handler Deputy Mark Souza and Canine Gonzo and Handler Deputy Bryan Love and Canine Hondo are assigned to North Station. Handler Deputy John Franklin and Canine Jacco are assigned
assigned to Senior Deputy Barger at the Sheriff’s Special Operations Unit.
Canine Program in December 2011 by adding four cross-trained patrol dogs.
amount of time spent in the patrol station. The canine teams are challenged with situational scenarios to test their case-law knowledge and decision-making ability. Handler Josh Peet and Bryan Love
Handler Senior Correctional Deputy
attended the Los Angeles Sheriff’s
Josh Fischer and Canine Dutch are
Department Special Enforcement
assigned to the Custody Division.
Bureau training, which included canine/
Canines Gonzo, Jacco, Hondo, DJ, Dutch and Jack were certified by the California Narcotics Canine association as 100 percent proficient at detecting the odors of cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, opium and marijuana. Canines Gonzo, Jacco, Hondo and DJ were also certified by Police Officer
SWAT team integration, tactical area searching, tactical building searching, and arrest team tactics. All of the patrol canine teams are now properly trained and integrated into the Sheriff’s Special Enforcement Detail (SED). Handler Josh Peet and Mark Souza also attended advanced canine training at Gold Coast K-9.
Narcotics Canine Association. These
All of the Sheriff’s canine patrol teams
certifications encompassed obedience,
are equipped with new ballistic helmets
apprehension and handler protection.
The Sheriff’s Office expanded the
the patrol car computers, limiting the
Canine DJ are assigned to Coast Station.
Standards and Training and the California
Detection Canine, Jack. Jack is
Sheriff’s Office and the community. To
protect their handlers, apprehend
to South Station. Deputy Peet and
THE CANINE MISSION STATEMENT:
30
These dogs can detect narcotics,
The canines have been deployed for five
and radio headsets consistent with the SED teams.
years and are doing a great job for the
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
SED THE SHERIFF’S SPECIAL ENFORCEMENT DETAIL (SED) is a highly trained and specially equipped tactical team designed to resolve critical incidents. These can include hostage situations, barricaded suspects, armed suicidal subjects, and high-risk warrant service.
GTF AS WE REFLECT ON 2015 for the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Gang Task Force (GTF), we reminisce on the achievements that propelled us toward our ongoing objective to dismantle and disrupt local gang activity by way of enforcement, prosecution and education. Last year, the Gang Task Force investigated crimes involving gang violence, such as an incident that occurred in
This year the team added two deputy positions, a team ser-
Nipomo where members of a criminal street gang
geant, three tactical negotiators, and a cadre of tactical
assaulted a motorist. Utilizing the Special Enforcement
dispatchers. Sheriff’s canines have also begun training
Detail (SED), the Gang Task Force served search and arrest
with the SED.
warrants on these subjects and arrested each of them. All were charged with gang enhancements and their cases are
The team was formed in the 1970s in response to the civil
pending. The Gang Task Force also assisted criminal detec-
unrest occurring at that time. In 2003, the Atascadero
tives with murder cases in 2015 and participated in 25 gang
Police Department partnered with the team to deal with
presentations to law enforcement and the public. Investiga-
the increasing threat of terrorism. This year, SED was
tions included the arrest and prosecution of a drive-by
deployed more than a dozen times for high-risk arrest and
shooting suspect, gang related stabbings, and gang related
search warrants, barricaded subjects, attempted
illegal drug sale cases. The Gang Task Force apprehended
homicides, and homicides. The team met every
dangerous criminals that presented a threat to public and
challenge successfully.
officer safety, and helped identify persons who participated
The SED team trains 20 hours per month, attending basic
in criminal street gangs throughout San Luis Obispo County.
and advanced tactical courses. The tactical equipment supplied to the team includes weapons, less lethal munitions and armored rescue vehicles. Most critical incidents are resolved through negotiations rather than with force. The SED continues to train with a focus on terrorism and current tactical issues, providing the citizens of San Luis Obispo County one of the best tactical teams in the state.
LEAD THE WAY ANNUAL REPORT 2015
31
NARCOTICS UNIT
.70 12.9 5.7
maintains the Narcotics Unit consisting
investigators who work with hazardous
geant. In 2015, the Drug Enforcement Agency assigned an investigator to the Sheriff’s Narcotics Unit.
showed an upward spike in that activity.
Clandestine Laboratory Team trained and certified by the state of California. Federal and state law require materials (HAZMAT), such as those found in clandestine drug laboratories (clan labs), to complete a total of 80 hours of instruction.
The most prevalent narcotics available in
FEDERAL AND STATE L AW
the county are methamphetamine,
REQUIRE INVESTIGATORS
cocaine and heroin. The unit employs a
Pounds of Cocaine
wide range of investigative techniques to combat the problem. Some of the
WHO WORK WITH HAZARDOUS MATERIALS TO
common techniques are surveillance,
COMPLETE A TOTAL OF 80
use of informants, controlled purchases
HOURS OF INSTRUCTION.
and wiretaps. In cases involving largescale illegal drug sales where the proceeds can be located, asset
Pounds of Methamphetamine
32
The Sheriff’s Narcotics Unit maintains a
of 12 investigators supervised by a ser-
Pounds of Heroin
cultivation. However, this past season
THE SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
forfeiture may be utilized. The California Legislature is currently
They learn how to safely process a clandestine laboratory site for evidence as part of their investigation. They also learn to ensure their compliance with the various environmental and safety
amending the law as it pertains to
regulations that apply to clan lab seizure
marijuana cultivation and possession,
and dismantling. These investigators
giving local jurisdictions more clearly
must then receive ongoing training in
defined protocol when addressing either
this field to maintain their certification.
issue. The recent drought curtailed
Clan labs are most often associated with
much of the large outdoor illegal
methamphetamine manufacturing.
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
Program. The Cal-MMET grant funds
In 2015, the following seizure totals
two Sheriff’s narcotics investigators
were made as the result of over 85
who receive specialized training in the
investigations by Sheriff’s narcotics
field of Drug Endangered Children (DEC)
investigators.
investigations. Sheriff’s investigators work closely with the District Attorney’s Office and the Department of Social Services to keep children safe and prosecute those who would expose them to the dangers of illicit drugs. Additionally, the unit has also responded to ongoing maritime smuggling
Heroin .70 lbs. Cocaine 12.9 lbs. Methamphetamine
5.7 lbs.
Processed marijuana
3,369 lbs.
Marijuana plants
49,679
operations involving Panga boats. Over In the interest of protecting children who
the past two years, San Luis Obispo
are exposed to drugs, the Sheriff’s
County has consistently had one of the
Office participates in the California
highest numbers of confirmed Panga
Multi-Jurisdictional Methamphetamine
boats in the state.
Enforcement Team (Cal-MMET)
LEAD THE WAY ANNUAL REPORT 2015
33
THE SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY BOMB TASK FORCE (BTF)
member of the International Association
County, and upon a mutual aid request,
of Bomb Technicians and Investigators.
to areas outside the county.
The BTF is accredited by the FBI Bomb
The BTF works in conjunction with
Data Center in Washington D.C. and is
various state and federal agencies
was created in 1981, at a time when explosive and bomb-related incidents were increasing within San Luis Obispo County. The need for a specialized team with unique equipment and 24-hour response capabilities was realized. All law enforcement agencies within the county committed to the BTF and began responding to calls for service in 1982. Funding resources currently come from San Luis Obispo County,
certified as a fully operational bomb
including the California Highway Patrol,
squad, capable of rendering safe and
State Parks and Recreation Department,
disposing of improvised explosive
FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco,
devices, military ordnance and
Firearms and Explosives, United States
commercially manufactured explosives.
Postal Inspectors, and Department of Homeland Security.
STRUCTURE OF THE BOMB TASK FORCE
Barbara County Sheriff’s Department The BTF has three members and is
Bomb Squad and the 30th Civil Engineer
commanded by a Sheriff’s Office senior
Squadron, Explosive Ordnance Disposal
deputy and a task force manager.
Team at Vandenberg Air Force Base.
The task force is governed by a board of directors consisting of the Sheriff, the
incorporated cities and California
chief(s) of police of each municipal
Polytechnic State University.
police agency within the county and the
Each team member is a certified bomb technician and has completed a thorough background check with the Federal
chief of police for California Polytechnic State University.
TASK FORCE CAPABILITIES
Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Basic training consists of six weeks at a FBI
respond to all bomb or explosive-related
ongoing, and each bomb technician is a
incidents within San Luis Obispo
32
Explosive Devices or Bomb-Related Calls
The task force is fully equipped to
Hazardous Devices School. Training is
34
The task force works with the Santa
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
HONOR GUARD THIS IS THE SECOND
RESPONSE PROCEDURES The BTF has the primary jurisdictional responsibility to all explosive and bomb-related incidents within San Luis Obispo County. A team member is continuously on call and the task force is available 24 hours a day by calling the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office at (805) 781-4550 (non-emergency line). Emergency situations may dictate a 9-1-1 call through the local law enforcement agency of jurisdiction.
full year that the Sheriff’s Honor Guard has served the office and community. The team is made up of 14 members of the Sheriff’s Office who volunteered for this collateral assignment. Members train eight hours every two months to maintain their skills, and also meet in advance of an event to ensure they are properly prepared for any assignment. This past year, the Sheriff’s Honor Guard has attended
2015 CALLS FOR SERVICE
funerals for peace officers killed in the line of duty, the
In 2015, the BTF responded to 32 explosive devices or bomb-related calls throughout the county. Some of the calls included WWII, Korean or Vietnam era military ordnance, suspicious packages, suspected explosive materials, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), illegal explosive pyrotechnics, and hoax devices. The BTF provided public demonstrations during Sheriff’s Family Day at the Ranch, Cops ‘n’ Kids Day,
State Of California’s Peace Officer’s Memorial in Sacramento, the San Luis Obispo County Peace Officer’s Memorial, Honor Flights for veterans, September 11 memorial functions, community college graduations and police academy graduation. The devotion and professionalism shown by members of the San Luis Obispo Sheriff’s Office has made this unit an outstanding part of the organization.
Law Enforcement Memorial Night at Farmer’s Market, and at the Sheriff’s Citizen’s Academy, SLO High School Career Day, Grizzly Academy and the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office Summer Youth Camps.
LEAD THE WAY ANNUAL REPORT 2015
35
THE MISSION OF THE SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY Rural Crimes Unit (RCU) is to enforce laws and provide investigative services focused on theft and property damage
400 30 Cases
Search Warrants
in the agriculture and rural industries. The RCU provides current crime prevention techniques and strategies to the farmers and ranchers of San Luis
Farm Bureau, Cattlewomen and Cattlemen’s Associations, and the Farm Bureau Women’s Groups. These meetings present the opportunity to share information regarding crime trends. It also provides the opportunity to make crime prevention recommendations, such as the formation of a “ranch watch” group or completing a ranch/farm security
Obispo County.
survey.
One RCU deputy is assigned to each
In 2015, the RCU investigated
patrol station within the Sheriff’s Office jurisdiction. In addition to specific training, deputies are members of the California Rural Crime Prevention Task Force and the Central Coast Rural Crime Task Force. Deputies attend meetings and training on a regular basis and host the quarterly California Rural Crime Prevention Task Force (CRCPTF) meeting once per year in San Luis Obispo County. Frequent meetings are held with the stakeholders of the San Luis Obispo
36
County rural community. These stakeholders include the SLO County
approximately 400 cases. These cases included vandalism of property and equipment, theft of farm and agricultural equipment, animal neglect, and killing of livestock. The RCU executed more than 30 search warrants related to rural crimes. Many of the RCU investigations led to arrest and prosecution of the offenders. One investigation of tool thefts from ranches led to the recovery of over $4,000 worth of stolen property linked to multiple residential burglaries that occurred in the city of San Luis Obispo.
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
The investigation led to the subsequent
Community outreach and education are
arrest and prosecution of the suspect.
fundamental components of the RCU.
Other investigations included theft of
Throughout the year, the RCU provided
commodities from Hearst Ranch and an
presentations to the Cattlewomen
animal cruelty case related to
Association and the Sheriff’s Citizen
cockfighting. The cockfighting case led
Academy. In addition, the RCU spent 12
to the seizure of more than 50 fighting
days at the California Mid-State Fair and
birds and tools, and ultimately the
participated in the Sheriff’s Family Day
conviction of the suspect.
at the Ranch and the Cops ‘n’ Kids Field
The RCU finalized an investigation involving a widespread Southern California criminal group. The suspects were linked to multiple thefts occurring in counties throughout California,
Day. Additionally, the RCU educated the public on the various products produced by the farming and ranch community as well as the economic importance it provides to San Luis Obispo County.
Arizona and Nevada. During the
In the coming year, the Sheriff’s RCU is
investigation, more than $300,000
looking forward to enhanced training,
worth of property was recovered.
utilizing new technologies and building
The RCU took the lead in the abatement of the San Luis Obispo Creek area near
partnerships to deliver effective and professional law enforcement services.
South Higuera Street. Farmers reported a large transient population in the area, resulting in possible crop damage. Multiple arrests were made during the operation along with the removal of more than 20,000 pounds of trash and debris from the areas surrounding the creek bed.
LEAD THE WAY ANNUAL REPORT 2015
37
MARINE ENFORCEMENT UNIT THE MARINE ENFORCEMENT UNIT (MEU)
Sheriff Parkinson sought federal grant
and our state and federal partners in
money to purchase this fully equipped
detecting and safely removing Panga
vessel to conduct inshore and offshore
boats from county beaches. Doing so
consists of six deputies, one sergeant
patrols as part of our routine anti-
significantly reduces the man-hours
and one commander. The MEU continues to provide enforcement at Lake Nacimiento and Lake Lopez, working closely with rangers from both San Luis Obispo and Monterey counties. With an eye on education and boating safety, deputies contacted dozens of boaters each day they patrolled the county’s lakes.
Office Dive Team, narcotics detectives
maritime smuggling patrols. The cost
needed for the disposal of Panga boats
for this fully equipped patrol vessel,
and minimizes any adverse
which was $342,812.82, was paid for
environmental impact.
entirely with federal grant money to increase protection of the coastal waters off San Luis Obispo County. Members of the MEU travelled to Washington State to conduct sea trials in early January and the vessel was
THE PURPOSE OF MEU REACHES BEYOND ENFORCEMENT PATROL, AS THEY ASSIST WITH RESCUES WHEN NEEDED.
few weeks later.
coastline of San Luis Obispo extends south from Big Sur to the Santa Maria River, just north of Point Sal. Contained within these 90 miles of coastline is the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant near Avila Beach. The MEU is now equipped to provide consistent enforcement patrols in the waters off the San Luis Obispo coastline, with the addition of the newest vessel in the fleet, a 27’ Defender Class patrol boat built by SAFE Boats International of
38
equipped to work with the Sheriff’s
threat facing coastal communities,
delivered to the Sheriff’s Office just a
In addition to our local lakes, the
Bremerton, Washington.
Because of the continuing smuggling
The Defender Class boat has conducted
The purpose of MEU reaches beyond
patrol operations for approximately 150
enforcement patrol, as they assist with
hours this year, including operations as
rescues when needed. In August 2015,
far as 50 miles off the coast and 25
while patrolling on the water at Lopez
miles north of the county line. In those
Lake, Deputy Matthew Shields and a
two cases, the MEU assisted federal,
county park ranger were summoned by
state and local authorities in the
two people who were in distress. The
interdiction of two Panga boats. Panga
personal watercraft they had been
boat smuggling activity along the San
riding had overturned and they indicated
Luis Obispo County coast continues to
that a third person, a 50-year-old female,
present a challenge to law enforcement.
was trapped underneath the water.
However, the MEU is now better
Deputy Shields removed his gun belt
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
with the help of several others nearby
water. They pulled the victim out of the
was able to get the victim into the patrol
water and then radioed for assistance.
boat. It’s estimated the woman was
The crew on the boat responded to the
underwater between 90 seconds and
area as well as the Coast Guard and
three minutes. The woman was
Morro Bay Harbor Patrol. They
conscious but not alert. Deputy Shields,
transferred the victim to the boat,
who was formerly trained as an EMT
monitored his condition and transported
and was also an ocean lifeguard in
him to Morro Bay Fire paramedics
college, placed the woman on her side
waiting on shore. The 72-year-old victim
in the recovery position. He assessed
had been kayaking alone when it
her condition and found that she was
overturned. The man was cold and
breathing. The victim was taken to the
fatigued and suffering from hypothermia,
boat launch ramp where additional
but also recovered from his experience.
county park rangers were waiting to provide medical aid. She was transported by ambulance to a local hospital and recovered from her ordeal.
The MEU also provides vessel operations in support of the Sheriff’s Office Dive Team and the Special Enforcement Detail. Additionally, the
Another similar case occurred in
MEU provided vessel support for the
November when the Sheriff’s Office
United States Coast Guard, assisting in
received a call about an overturned
the performance of vessel safety
kayak in the waters off Montana de Oro
inspections in the waters off Morro Bay.
and immediately jumped into the water
State Park. The Sheriff’s Office
to save the woman. Deputy Shields
Defender Class Boat was nearby on a
tried to roll the watercraft over but to no
training mission with members of the
avail, so he swam underneath trying to
MEU. San Luis Obispo County
locate the woman. After several
Supervisor Frank Mecham and his
attempts, he located the woman and
legislative assistant Vicki Shelby
tried to pull her out. Her life vest was
Fogleman were also on board the boat
caught on something under the water.
as observers. Two fishermen in the area
Deputy Shields freed the woman and
discovered a male subject floating in the
With the addition of the Defender Class patrol boat, the M/V Rob Bryn, the longserving 25’ Almar patrol boat, was retired from Sheriff’s Office service and transferred to San Luis Obispo County Parks where she will continue to faithfully serve the citizens of San Luis Obispo County on the waters of Lopez Lake.
LEAD THE WAY ANNUAL REPORT 2015
39
BICYCLE PATROL THE BICYCLE PATROL IS A SPECIALTY TEAM
The Bicycle Patrol Team trains together
Another event highlight was the Amgen
as a team twice a year. Training builds
Tour of California in Avila Beach. The
on basic bicycle riding skills and
Bicycle Patrol Team was present to
develops patrol-specific riding skills.
provide bicycle patrol on the Bob Jones
comprised of deputies who are available
Ravine Water Park in Paso Robles
to augment patrol and fill a niche
allowed the team to train in their facility,
between foot and vehicle patrol. The
which was closed for the season. The
Bicycle Patrol Team is well suited for
training included a serpentine course to
We had a unique training opportunity early this year when the owners of
Trail, parking lots, public streets, downtown, Lifestyle Festival, and finish line. Team members enjoyed watching the professional racers ride through with so much speed and energy, even after their lengthy rides.
large events including parades, festivals,
develop and test riding skills. In this
In 2015, the team tested a new Trek 29”
races and other special events. Deputies
exercise, riders must weave in and out
wheel patrol bicycle. The overwhelming
on bicycles can cover a larger area than a
of the cone pattern while maintaining
consensus was that it is a better patrol
deputy on foot and can navigate
balance. In an emergency braking
bicycle to meet our needs. We also
crowded areas. The bicycle patrol
exercise, deputies ride full speed into a
tested a new LED emergency light
deputy can get to a call for service faster
t-intersection until the instructor gives
system, which is brighter, and has a
than the foot patrol or patrol car deputy.
the right or left turn signal, at which
lighter low profile design with longer run
time the deputy must apply emergency
time. Pending budgetary constraints,
brakes and make the turn without
we will replace two bicycles a year until
crashing. In Avila Beach training, team
we have replaced our current fleet.
THE BICYCLE PATROL DEPUT Y CAN GET TO A CALL FOR SERVICE FASTER THAN THE FOOT PATROL OR PATROL CAR DEPUT Y. By using bicycle patrol deputies, the
members had the chance to ride through town, on the promenade, and along the Bob Jones Trail. It also provided practice with going up and down stairs.
public can approach and speak with a
The Bicycle Patrol Team was used for
deputy, enhancing positive community
several events in 2015. The 4th of July
relationships.
Independence Day celebration in
The team will continue with our regularly scheduled training in the coming year in addition to a special training with Morro Bay Police Department bicycle patrol officers to prepare for the 2016 Amgen race.
Cayucos was the team’s biggest event.
40
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
SCHOOL RESOURCE DEPUTIES THE SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER PROGRAM
and Training), Teen Survival Skills and
adult dance group from Los Angeles
Project Alert. Additionally, SROs are
and a life size board game. Finally,
actively involved in truancy intervention
students attended Law Enforcement
and the Juvenile Diversion Program.
Day where the Sheriff’s Office and
During the 2014–2015 school year, the G.R.E.A.T. program curriculum was
ensures safety and promotes positive
taught in the Coastal, North and South
relationships on school campuses and
County. Hundreds of elementary
at school and community events. These
students graduated from the program.
events include Cops ‘n’ Kids Day, 24
In 2015, the San Luis Obispo County
Hour Relay Challenge, Sheriff’s Family
Juvenile Probation Department
Day at the Ranch, Days of the Dons, The California Mid-State Fair, and many more. The primary role of the School Resource Officers (SROs) is education, intervention and prevention. The SROs also act as a resource for students, staff, parents and the community.
other law enforcement agencies display their specialty units for students to learn about and experience firsthand. All three camps were a huge success, and were funded through donations from the community, allowing all 316 students to attend for free.
partnered with the Sheriff’s Office and
All Sheriff’s Office SROs partnered with
San Luis Obispo County Drug and
San Luis Obispo County Drug and
Alcohol Services “Friday Night Live”
Alcohol Services “Friday Night Live”
Team to plan and run the three San Luis
Team and San Luis Obispo County
Obispo County Sheriff’s Office Youth
Probation Juvenile Division Officers to
Summer Camps. The three camps were
plan a BBQ for all the students who
in Arroyo Grande at Mesa Middle
attended the camps. The Sheriff’s
The SROs currently provide a visible and
School, Cayucos Elementary School
Office is in the planning stages for the
positive law enforcement presence on
and Templeton High School.
2016 summer camp.
more than 40 school campuses throughout San Luis Obispo County. SROs assist school staff in educating kindergarten through 12th-grade students on prevention of drug, alcohol and tobacco use through programs like G.R.E.A.T. (Gang Resistance Education
During these week long camps, students participated in fun events like tie-dying team t-shirts, tug-a-war and a carpet square game. They experienced three assembly events featuring Bucket Busters (local group of teenagers who make music using plastic buckets), an
LEAD THE WAY ANNUAL REPORT 2015
41
PROPERTY ROOM THE PROPERTY ROOM IS STAFFED by three property officers, two full-time employees and one part-time employee. Our newest full-time property officer joined in May 2015 and has already shown to be a great benefit to our office. The part-time position is dedicated to picking up property at the Sheriff’s three patrol stations throughout the county and destroying property that is no longer
Office has worked together with Integrated Waste Management and several of the local police departments to collect and destroy more than 23,000 pounds of medications. These expired or unused medications were safely destroyed rather than potentially ending up on the street, in the trash or flushed down the toilet. Construction has been completed at the old property room, leaving us a small area retained for long-term storage. Additional shelving was installed in our firearm vault, allowing space for storage
needed to be held as evidence.
of 165 more handguns.
Operation Medicine Cabinet came to a
We continue to develop new ways of
close for us in October 2015, leaving the task of collecting unused prescription medication to the local pharmacies. Since 2010, the Sheriff’s Property
42
improving our organization and efficiency. This will be a continued effort in years to come but we have shown great progress throughout 2015.
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
CRIME PREVENTION A FUNCTION OF THE OPERATIONS DIVISION,
maintaining the department’s Facebook
responsible for the design and content
page and Twitter account and provides
of the Sheriff’s Office website,
support to the public information officer.
www.slosheriff.org.
The crime prevention specialist
The PIO also coordinates social media
maintains all the Neighborhood Watch
efforts on behalf of the Sheriff’s Office
programs in the unincorporated areas of
including Facebook, Twitter and
the Crime Prevention and Public
the county, supporting and maintaining
YouTube. In an effort to communicate
Information Unit is staffed by two crime
more than 30 established groups and
more effectively with the community
prevention specialists and a public
training others. The position is also
we serve, we greatly expanded our
information officer. The crime
responsible for the annual Citizens
social media presence in 2015.
prevention specialists are each
Academy and Sheriff’s Auxiliary
assigned to a specific area and cross-
Volunteer Patrol Academy, children’s
trained to support the entire
programs, security surveys for home
organization.
and business, and public displays at community events. They also handle
The rural crime specialist coordinates
the Crime Prevention Through
with the three rural crime deputies
Environmental Design review of new
assigned to North, Coast and South
developments and construction.
Patrol Stations. The specialist presents
For example, when we first began to post to Facebook, our audience reach for one post was 75 people. Compare that to this past October, when a single post reached almost 70,000 people. In November of 2015, the Sheriff’s Office developed a small studio that gave us the ability to live stream breaking news
crime prevention information and
The public information officer (PIO) is
follow-up support to the ranching and
the primary liaison with local, national
media interviews over the Internet.
agricultural communities, Farm and
and international media for any news
Other PIO responsibilities include
Ranch Watch programs and the Owner
items that directly relate to the Sheriff’s
developing public service
Applied Number Program. The
Office. Responsibilities include writing
announcements, developing support
specialist represents the Sheriff at local
and distributing press releases,
services for the media and assisting in
cattlemen and women groups,
generating story ideas, and acting as
scheduling speakers from the Sheriff’s
California Mid-State Fair, and Farm
the primary spokesperson for the
executive staff for service clubs and
Bureau. This specialist also assists in
Sheriff’s Office. The PIO is also
special event presentations.
events and host news conferences or
LEAD THE WAY ANNUAL REPORT 2015
43
SEARCH AND RESCUE THE SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE Search and Rescue (SLOSAR) Team consists of volunteer members from our community who are trained and certified in: •
All Members are certified by National
SLOSAR team members and are
Association of Search and Rescue
expected to gain proficiency in all of the
(NASAR) as either SAR Technician 2 or 3.
skills described above. Many SLOSAR members have acquired advanced skills
THE COST SAVED BY SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNT Y FOR A PROFESSIONAL SEARCH
(EMR)
advanced GPS computer mapping and advanced technical rescue. Some
AND RESCUE VOLUNTEER
members have created trainings that
TEAM IS APPROXIMATELY
have been recognized nationwide and
$2,000 PER HOUR.
Emergency Medical Responder
in search theory, management, operations, logistics management,
SLOSAR is one of very few county SAR
others are developing trainings that will enhance the skill levels of their teammates.
units that have their own California
SLOSAR currently has 55 members.
Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
Most members, although all proficient
Continuing Education Provider Program.
in ground searching, have chosen to be
•
Health Care Provider CPR
•
Incident Command System (ICS)
•
Communications
This license allows SLOSAR trained
part of a specialty team within the
EMS staff to re-certify Emergency
SLOSAR Team. The specialty teams
Medical Technicians (EMTs) through the
within SLOSAR include:
•
Extensive search techniques and procedures
state and evaluate skills at the state and
•
Rope rescue skills
national level. SLOSAR has an Out of
•
Mapping
County Incident Management Team
•
Compass and Global Positioning System (GPS)
•
•
(urban and rural)
that can be deployed to another county
•
4x4 and ATV (quad) teams
and provide assistance or guidance on
•
Communications/
the management of that search.
dispatching team
Wilderness tracking and survival All new members to SLOSAR are
•
which they are trained by experienced
Mountain Bike Team (urban and rural)
probationary for 9 to 14 months during
44
Ground search teams
•
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
Technical Rope Rescue Team
• •
(high and low angle)
•
ATV/Quads
requests, two “Project Lifesaver”
Canine Team (area searching,
•
California Office of Emergency
searches and four calls to assist other
trailing and cadaver)
Services (Cal OES)
agencies within our county.
Medical Team (25+ members
Communications Mobile
The cost saved by San Luis Obispo
Interoperability Gateway Unit
rated at EMT or higher) •
Tracking Team
•
Urban Search and Rescue
(MIGU) • •
(USAR) Disaster Team (2016) •
“Project Lifesaver” Team
with our community. Throughout the
scene searches and equipment support.
year they participate in approximately 15 events each year including: •
SLOSAR are: 26’ communication-command vehicle •
Detailed (topo) county maps and computer mapping (Terrain Navigator Pro)
•
Generators and light towers
Humvee
time, which includes missions, training, meetings and special events, is estimated at $1.4 million per year.
Sheriff’s Office by participating in crime
•
$2,000 per hour. The cost saved by San Luis Obispo County for all volunteer
SLOSAR members are very involved
expertise allows them to support the
vehicles available and supported by
rescue volunteer team is approximately
Mountain bikes
COMMUNIT Y INVOLVEMENT
The SLOSAR Team’s training and
Some of the specialty equipment and
County for a professional search and
•
CONTINUING TO GROW SLOSAR is continually growing and expanding their expertise in the realm of
Medical stand-by and first aid
search and rescue. Currently in the
stations at special events such as
works is the development of an Urban
adventure races
Search and Rescue Team (to be
Community events such as
deployed during a disaster) and a “Type
Sheriff’s Day at the Ranch, Cops ‘n’ Kids Day, and the San Luis Obispo Christmas Parade
SEARCH MISSIONS
I” Search Team that would be qualified to search for extended periods of time, at any elevation and in any environment. Each of these teams has the potential to be deployed for searches or natural disasters throughout California upon the
•
40’ medical trailer
•
Command trailers
for searches including seven missing
•
Crew/rehab trailer
person searches, three mutual aid
In 2015, SLOSAR received 15 call outs
request of Cal OES.
LEAD THE WAY ANNUAL REPORT 2015
45
SAVP THE SHERIFF’S AUXILIARY VOLUNTEER PATROL (SAVP)
SAVP members regularly assist the
was established to assist the San Luis
a chance for recruitment.
SAVP members regularly assume new
Crime Prevention Unit in preparing
duties and assignments as requested.
materials for public displays and events
They have continued their efforts with
to enhance crime prevention education,
the “Project Lifesaver” Program,
as well as attending those events. They
resulting in over 200 hours of service
assist with the Sheriff’s Citizen Academy
this past year. Not only do they change
annual graduation, which also provides
the batteries each month for those who
Obispo County Sheriff’s Office in
wear these devices, but they spend time visiting with them, enabling their
meeting its law enforcement mission.
THESE VOLUNTEERS
Citizen volunteers trained in a variety of
CONTRIBUTE MORE THAN
law enforcement topics, such as observation skills, radio procedures and first-aid, and providing supplemental patrol in our neighborhoods and business districts.
14,000 HOURS OF SERVICE
family members to have a break. Annually, this dedicated group travels over 75,000 miles throughout the
PER YEAR PROVIDING
county, completing these various tasks
VARIOUS SERVICES.
and requests. SAVP members have also
Under the direction of the SAVP graffiti
These volunteers contribute more than
abatement coordinator, SAVP members
14,000 hours of service per year
participate in the removal of graffiti or
volunteered their time to complete nearly 700 hours of various types of training to enhance their skills.
“tagging” incidences throughout the
SAVP is a partnership between law
additional “eyes and ears” in an effort to
entire county. The SAVP has spent
enforcement and the public, which
identify crime problems and increase
approximately 300 hours on these
serves to increase the impact that the
public safety. Aside from patrolling the
endeavors in this past year and around
Sheriff’s Office has in preserving our high
streets, auxiliary patrol members
4,000 hours since the inception of
quality of life in San Luis Obispo County.
perform more than 300 vacation
the program.
providing various services. They act as
checks annually.
46
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
SHERIFF’S POSSE 2015 WAS AN ACTIVE YEAR
CEREMONIAL EVENTS Safety Day, Shandon Elementary Sheriff’s Town Hall Meeting, San Miguel
for the Sheriff’s Posse. The 13 regular members and five active honorary members volunteered a total of 741 hours. A list of the events the Posse participated in can be found below.
Sagebrush Days Parade, San Miguel Sheriff’s Town Hall Meeting, Avila Beach
Citizens Academy Graduation, San Luis Obispo Cops ‘n’ Kids Field Day, Arroyo Grande
PATROL EVENTS Cal Poly Rodeo, San Luis Obispo Templeton Park 4th of July, Templeton Mid-State Fair, Paso Robles
Sheriff’s Town Hall Meeting, Los Osos
Creston Rodeo
Arroyo Grande/Grover Beach Chamber of Commerce Lunch, Arroyo Grande
SAR EVENTS
ensure that both units can work together when the Posse is called to assist.
Jr. Ranger Camp, San Luis Obispo
The unit also provided training to search and rescue probationary members to
GREAT Camp, Nipomo
BOARD MEMBERS Captain 1st LT
Andy Fetyko Vicki Janssen
2nd LT Training Office Charlotte Manos 2nd LT Sec/ Treasurer
Lyle Thomas
Past Captain
Dee Hazelton
Independence Day Parade, Templeton International Torch Run, San Luis Obispo GREAT Camp, Cayucos Sheriff’s Town Hall Meeting, Heritage Ranch GREAT Camp, San Miguel Pinedorado Parade, Cambria
HOURS Ceremonial
274.00
Sheriff’s Day at the Ranch, San Luis Obispo
Patrol 273.50
Harvest Festival Parade, Arroyo Grande
Search and Rescue
28.00
Pioneer Day Parade, Paso Robles
Meetings/Misc. Hours
165.50
Colony Days Parade, Atascadero
Total Hours
741.00
LEAD THE WAY ANNUAL REPORT 2015
SAR Probationary Member Orientation ORD, Turkey Flats
AWARDS FOR THE YEAR Ceremonial Top Hand Lowell McDonnell
35.50 Hours
Patrol Top Hand Kasey Tremble
71.00 Hours
Honorary Member of the Year Bill Parsonage
29.50 Hours
Member of the Year Kasey Tremble
71.00 Hours
New Member of the Year Patty Keller
50.00 Hours
47
AERO SQUADRON THE SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S AERO Squadron is an all-volunteer organization composed of FAA-licensed pilots and non-pilot trained observers to provide airborne search, rescue, surveillance and specialized transportation functions. Member-pilots utilize their privately owned aircraft, currently 14 fixed-wing models, for mission support operations. Aircraft owners are reimbursed for aviation fuel and oil only used in conjunction with an assigned mission.
One of the Aero Squadron’s original missions was to provide airborne search,
inventory is a 2006 Ford F-150 support vehicle outfitted with appropriate equipment to support squadron operations including UHF, VHF and aircraft-band VHF transceivers for communication with other county, state and federal assets such as our SLOSAR and posse ground search teams. All Aero Squadron active mission pilots are also furnished with public service-band VHF and UHF transceivers for their observer’s communication with ground search and support teams.
Aero Squadron missions include personnel, vehicle and vessel tracking as part of narcotics surveillance.
location and rescue-support for survi-
Currently, higher performance Aero
vors of overdue and missing aircraft
Squadron aircraft provide the Sheriff
along the coastal range and remote
and other county personnel with
inland areas. Numerous aircraft and
a transportation asset throughout
crash scenes have been located over
the state of California for business
the years including the PSA airliner
meeting attendance.
crash west of Templeton in the 1980s. More commonly, the Aero Squadron
The Aero Squadron also exhibits its aircraft and ground support vehicle
is called upon to assist ground search
at various local airshows, the annual
and rescue teams searching for miss-
Law Enforcement Night at the San
ing persons. Missing persons typically
Luis Obispo Farmer’s Market in
include hikers, bicyclers, dirt bikers, ATV
May and Sheriff’s Family Day at the
enthusiasts, lost children and elderly
Ranch in September.
people - especially including those with
A key asset in the Aero Squadron’s
48
MISSIONS
mental and emotional challenges. The squadron has also been involved in
CURRENT ASSETS (AS OF DECEMBER 2015 MEMBERSHIP LEVEL)
the location and recovery of personal remains of those who have taken
Active members: 28
their own lives.
(pilots and observers)
The Aero Squadron also provides an
Licensed pilots: 21
important airborne communication relay platform for ground search and law enforcement teams operating within the
Member-owned aircraft: 9 Fixed-Wing and 1 Helicopter
county’s mountainous terrain and steep
Estimated current market value
valleys, which might otherwise block
of Aero Squadron aircraft
line-of-sight VHF radio reception. Other
= $3,445,000
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
2015 AERO SQUADRON OPERATIONS
2015 AERO SQUADRON TRANSPORTATION FLIGHTS
2015 AERO SQUADRON SEARCH AND RESCUE SUPPORT OPERATIONS
Mission Description: The Aero Squad-
08/27/2015: Transportation Flight to Sacramento for Deputy Interview
ron was contacted with a request to provide transportation for a deputy to Sacramento for a law enforcement-
08/09/2015: Search for Three Missing
related interview. What normally would
Juvenile Females in Vicinity of
have required over ten hours of driving
San Simeon
was accomplished in about 6.5 hours,
Mission Description: The Aero Squad-
including meeting time.
ron was contacted at 1800 to search for
Total flight time: 3 hours, 30 minutes
three overdue juvenile females who reportedly drove from Atascadero to the coast to view the elephant seals. They were to then drive south to Santa Maria but were reported overdue. The Aero
Total man-hours: 8 09/20/2015: Flight to San Diego to Retrieve Dive Team Member
Diego, which was the nearest available chamber for this operation. The diver then spent the remainder of that day and most of the night being recompressed to a higher air pressure and slowly decompressed to sea level pressure to allow the nitrogen in his system to naturally aspire. At 0820 on the morning of September 20, an Aero Squadron pilot-member departed Santa Maria along with another member pilot as copilot and flew his pressurized singleengine turbine Cessna 210 to San Diego to retrieve the recovering dive team member. On the return flight, a lower cabin pressure altitude was maintained to assist in the successful decompression. They arrived back at San Luis Obispo airport at 1215 and subsequently returned to Santa Maria after
Squadron’s newest asset, an R66 tur-
Mission Description: We were con-
bine-powered helicopter, was
tacted to provide a return ride to San
delivering their passenger.
dispatched along with an observer/pilot
Luis Obispo for a deputy sheriff who is
Total flight time: 3 hours, 40 minutes
at 1810. A search was conducted along
a member of the Sheriff’s Dive Team.
the coast but concluded due to impend-
The diver had ascended too quickly dur-
ing nightfall. At 2151 we were advised
ing a training dive off Diablo Canyon
12/10/2015: Ground Transportation
that the three subjects had returned to
Nuclear Power Plant and developed
from Sacramento for SLOSAR member
Atascadero safely, reporting their vehi-
nitrogen narcosis, commonly known as
cle had broken down. Total flight time: 1 hour, 26 minutes Total man-hours: 5
“the bends.” He was immediately airevacuated to the University of California Scripps hyperbaric (high pressure) decompression facility north of San
Total man-hours: 16 hours
Mission Description: On December 8, the Aero Squadron was requested to retrieve a member of the San Luis Obispo Sheriff’s Search and Rescue
LEAD THE WAY ANNUAL REPORT 2015
49
(SLOSAR) team from Sacramento. The
aircraft once airborne. Although we
their handlers. For our test, a canine was
SLOSAR member was driving the
were successful in relaying communica-
wearing the collar somewhere in the
team’s multi-use communications vehi-
tions to ground searchers, we did not
Oceano Dunes complex accompanied by
cle to a specialized facility in the capital
initially find the three subjects who were
its handler. Our search aircraft crew was
for service. Unfortunately, instrument
well concealed under brush.
weather conditions were forecast for that date, and the non-availability of aircraft precluded our flight support. Coincidentally, an Aero Squadron member had driven to Sacramento on
Toward the conclusion of the exercise, our helicopter flew two SLOSAR Project Lifesaver crew members to test a radio Direction Finding (DF) unit. This small unit is worn by individuals with
business earlier in the week and returned the SLOSAR member to the county on the appointed day, sparing the use of a separate retrieval vehicle.
diminished mental faculties such as Alzheimer’s or dementia in order to quickly provide location information should they wander away from the
briefed and while taxiing for takeoff, received sufficient signal from the transmitter about four miles away. The aircraft had a direction to fly and precisely located the canine within about five to ten minutes after departure. This test was wildly successful. To prove its effectiveness, the aircraft continued to fly south to Santa Ynez and still had sufficient location signal there at an altitude of 8,500 ft.
Total flight time: 0 hours
safety of their residences or caregivers.
The other aspect was a test of the Project
Total man-hours: 7 hours
Earlier in the day, one of our search sub-
Lifesaver DF unit in a fixed wing aircraft
jects had been wearing one of the
used to locate subjects wearing the wrist-
2015 AERO SQUADRON TR AINING OPERATIONS
wristbands and purposely left it in the
band on the ground. In one instance, a
field for relocation as part of the exer-
wristband was purposely placed within a
cise. We decided to test the DF unit in
residence. In another test, the wristband
The Aero Squadron conducted two
the air from inside the helicopter. Not
was worn by a subject driving a vehicle
flight training exercises during 2015.
long after takeoff, the DF unit provided
north from San Luis Obispo into the area
signal and direction to target, which led
of Santa Margarita and Atascadero. In
to a very quick location of the wristband.
both instances, our aircraft were able to
October: Fall Operational Readiness Drill On October 24, the annual Fall Joint
Total flight time: 7 hours
Operational Readiness Drill was con-
Total man-hours: 56 hours,
ducted with SLOSAR and the mounted
including planning
Posse. Scenarios involved the location and rescue of three pre-located individuals. The Aero Squadron set up its Air Operations base using its ground sup-
December: Fixed Wing Flight Location of Canine GPS and Project Lifesaver Transmitters
port Unit 1798 adjacent to SLOSAR’s
This joint exercise was conducted out of
communications van. In addition, we set
San Luis Obispo Airport with members
up a helicopter landing zone adjacent to
of the Sheriff’s Ground Search and Res-
AirOps to land our member-owned R66
cue Team (SLOSAR). The purpose was
helicopter, which was supporting air-
to demonstrate the effectiveness of
borne search operations with two of our
locating ground subject-borne GPS and
fixed wing aircraft. One of these aircraft
radio frequency transmitters from Aero
was designated High Bird and flew a
Squadron fixed wing aircraft.
racetrack pattern at or above 6,500 feet altitude for communications relay func-
The GPS transmitter unit we tracked is
tions over the mountainous terrain. The
incorporated into a collar worn by canine
Aero Squadron’s AirOps staff communi-
units during field operations. A hand-held
cated with SLOSAR remotely on one of
receiver unit remotely locates and tracks
the VHF channels as did our three
canines in the field when well-away from
50
provide accurate latitude/longitude approximate location coordinates.
28 21 $3.4M Active Members
Licensed Pilots
Estimated Market Value of Aero Squadron Aircraft
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
EXPLORERS EXPLORER POST 781 IS COMPRISED OF
control services for the annual Paso
young men and women between the ages of 14 and 21 who are interested in discovering more about law enforcement and a possible career in this profession. Explorer Post 781 currently maintains a roster of 13 members and is officially chartered through the Boy Scouts of America. Four advisors lend their expertise in training the post members under the supervision of a Sheriff’s sergeant. Explorers gain experience through various 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, Cops ‘n’ Kids Day in Arroyo Grande, and G.R.E.A.T. (Gang Resistance Education and Training) at various venues. Other activities include working at the California Mid-State Fair, Sheriff’s Day at the Ranch and providing traffic
building searches, apply fingerprinting
Robles Christmas parade. Post
techniques, handcuffing techniques and
members attend the annual Law
suspect pat-downs, engage in active
Enforcement Memorial Night activities
shooter scenarios, hostage negotiations,
at Farmer’s Market in San Luis Obispo
D.U.I. sobriety examinations, and
and provide youth leadership and small
receive an introduction to canine
group training sessions at the Gang
handling techniques.
Resistance Education Program, as held in three locations throughout the county.
Furthermore, the explorers are familiarized with radio codes and
Explorers may also be seen
transmissions thereof, penal codes,
volunteering with the Alcoholic
vehicle codes and case law. Explorers
Beverage Control Agency and the
are expected to maintain high levels of
County of San Luis Obispo Tobacco
moral standards and discipline –
Program. They partner with deputy
characteristics that will carry on in their
teams for foot patrol at the 4th of July
personal lives and, should they so
Fireworks Show in Cayucos, and
choose, in their law enforcement careers.
participate in several patrol unit ridea-longs throughout the year. Many explorers are also bilingual, providing the Sheriff’s Office with valuable interpreting services. Weekly meetings are held on Thursday
During the past year, the Explorer Post competed in the Central Coast Law Enforcement Competition in Tulare, where they displayed professionalism and determination. Competing against over 600 other explorers, they were
evenings. Explorers receive scenario-
successful in winning several awards.
based training and discussions on law
This year, the Explorer Post looks
enforcement duties such as handling
forward to competing in similar
domestic violence calls, suspicious
competitions throughout the state.
subject contact, vehicle traffic stops, report taking, oral interviews, and firearms handling. They conduct
LEAD THE WAY ANNUAL REPORT 2015
51
DIVE TEAM THE SHERIFF’S UNDERWATER SEARCH AND RECOVER TEAM, commonly referred to as the “Dive Team,” had another busy year in 2015 with trainings, conferences and
Day, Sheriff’s Family Day at the Ranch,
Presentations ranged from dive-
and many other community events.
medicine to blue water diving.
TRAINING
April’s training session was at Target Rock in Morro Bay. Members practiced
Training in 2015 started in January with
their swift-water rigging techniques as
a lecture on protocols for handling
well as mock rescues of at-risk persons
hazardous material. February’s training session occurred at Spooner’s Cove in Montano de Oro.
presentations. The team currently
Slam training is an annual training
consists of 24 members, one commander, one sergeant, six deputy sheriffs, one correctional deputy, and 15 civilian volunteers. In March, Dive Team members displayed equipment and answered questions from inquisitive students at Shandon Junior High School. Dive team members also participated in the Sheriff’s Gang Resistance and
whereby divers are required to enter the ocean from the shore through very
by putting on an equipment Elementary, Cayucos Elementary and
In May of this year, the Dive Team’s annual equipment inspection, and
not only tests the diver’s physical skills
physical agilities test took place at Lake
but also challenges him or her mentally
Nacimiento. Divers also made dives in
in order to deal with possible panic-
the lake with full face masks and
stricken persons who need rescuing.
surface supplied air to get ready for the
DIVERS HAD TO LOCATE A ABOUT 50 FEET OF DEPTH VISIBILIT Y OF LESS THAN ONE FOOT.
Lillian Larsen Elementary.
from the vessel, and familiarized themselves with the boat’s equipment.
rough surface conditions and navigate
IN BL ACK WATER WITH
presentation for kids at Dana
part of the training. Divers practiced entering and exiting the water to and
around rocky surf beaten terrain. This
SUBMERGED TARGET AT
Education Training Program graduation
in the water. In addition, the Sheriff’s Office’s new vessel, “Defender,” was
lake’s summer season. June’s training also took place at Lake Nacimiento, where divers had to locate a submerged target at about 50 feet of depth in black water with visibility of less than one foot. The diver was on an umbilical cord being
In addition to the many schools they tour,
In March, team members took part in
supplied air from the surface. The
the Dive Team also has extensive displays
the annual Diver Education Conference.
target’s last seen point was marked only
at SLO Farmer’s Market, Cops ‘n’ Kids
52
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
by a GPS coordinate that was taken by a crew member aboard the Sheriff’s Office vessel “Christopher Meadows.” The target was located and retrieved. During the month of July, training took place at Hartford Pier. Diver team members spent their training day performing underwater search patterns, searching for evidence, and practicing injured diver rescue.
DIVERS MADE A NIGHT DIVE AT COLEMAN BEACH, AND HAD TO NAVIGATE UNDERWATER TO A PRE - DETERMINED POINT ON THE SEA FLOOR. August’s training again took place at Hartford Pier. Divers practiced black out
shore. Atascadero High School pool and Lake Lopez were used for these trainings. The month of September saw the Dive Team converge at Diablo Nuclear Power Plant. The annual deep dive qualification
introduced to dry suit diving. Divers made a night dive at Coleman Beach, and had to navigate underwater to a pre-determined point on the sea floor. December’s meeting was used to
took place approximately 200 yards off
review the year’s activities, vote on
the break wall where divers had to
team positions and write the team’s
navigate to the seawater intake structure.
schedule for 2015. A lecture was also
operations, meaning the diver’s mask is
October’s training was carried out at
completely blacked out and he or she
headquarters. Divers practiced swift
must perform hand coordination
water rigging and took inventory
exercises on the bottom. Another
of equipment.
given on handling compressed gas and OSHA’s requirements for storage and transport of high pressure cylinders.
training was scheduled in August to assist the Special Enforcement Detail
November’s training was at the Morro
team in their drown-proof training and
Bay T Pier. New Dive Team member
tactical assaults from a vessel onto
skills were assessed and they were
LEAD THE WAY ANNUAL REPORT 2015
53
AWARDS 2015 AWARD RECIPIENTS
LIFESAVING Mollenkopf, Brian DEPUTY SHERIFF Paterson, Alistair SHERIFF’S CORRECTIONAL DEPUTY
COMMENDATION Hascall, Brian
COMMANDER
Nichols, Jeff
SERGEANT
Shields, Matthew DEPUTY SHERIFF
Franklin, Jonathan DEPUTY SHERIFF Shields, Matthew DEPUTY SHERIFF
FORENSIC EXCELLENCE Joynt, Jeff SHERIFF’S FORENSIC SPECIALIST
Sternjacob, Kyle
DEPUTY SHERIFF
Weimer, Luke
DEPUTY SHERIFF
DEDICATED SERVICE
Cullen, Clayton
DISPATCHER
Damian, Andrea
DISPATCHER
Maloney, Katie DEPARTMENT AUTOMATION SPECIALIST III
Heuer, Amy
DISPATCHER
Rowe, Nikki
DISPATCHER
Sampson, Nathan DEPARTMENT AUTOMATION SPECIALIST III
Allen, Lori SHERIFF’S CORRECTIONAL DEPUTY Joynt, Jeff SHERIFF’S FORENSIC SPECIALIST
54
Ward, Paul DEPARTMENT AUTOMATION SPECIALIST II Murray, Lisa DEPARTMENT PERSONNEL TECHNICIAN
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
CONTACT INFORMATION 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 Coast 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
SLO COUNT Y SHERIFF’S OFFICE