News

Sheriff Barnes letter to Gov. Newsom on COVID-19 response

COVID-19 prompts increased activity in OC’s remote areas; here’s how to stay safe

Hiking, mountain biking and exploring Orange County’s remote areas remain favorite summer outings for many local families. In recent months, we’ve seen increased activity on local...

NEWS RELEASE: The Sheriff’s Department Working to Curb Distracted Driving

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, Ca. (July 3, 2020) – Distracted driving is a dangerous and illegal behavior the Sheriff’s Department is working to deter drivers from doing. View PDF

Illegal Firework Calls - 2019 vs. 2020

Illegal firework calls in Orange County up nearly 300 percent from last year

As Independence Day nears, Sheriff’s Department officials are expressing concern about the steep increase in illegal firework calls and what that could mean for community safety...

NEWS RELEASE: Statement from Sheriff Barnes on enforcement of face coverings

SANTA ANA, Ca. (July 2, 2020) – Please see the following statement from OrangeCounty Sheriff Don Barnes regarding the wearing of face coverings andenforcement. View PDF

NEWS RELEASE: OCSD to hold DUI checkpoint in Laguna Hills

$0LAGUNA HILLS, Ca. (June 18, 2020) – The Orange County Sheriff’s Department will be conducting a DUI/Driver’s License Checkpoint on Friday, June 19, from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m. at an...

Officer with rescued horse

Deputy rescues stolen horse, reunites with owner

When Deputy Ricketts first was assigned to San Juan Capistrano Police Services about a year ago he had heard tales of a caper who would sneak into horse stables at night, take a...

June is National Safety Month

For National Safety Month, consider implementing one new safety habit

June marks National Safety Month – a nationwide campaign promoted by the National Safety Council that encourages residents to adopt practices focused on preventing injuries or...

NEWS RELEASE: OC Sheriff’s Department Use of Force Policies and Practices

SANTA ANA, Ca. (June 09, 2020) – The Orange County Sheriff’s Department is committed to transparency about law enforcement budgets, policies and practices. The Department guards...