SILVER STAR FEBRUARY 2021 - MEETTHENEWDIRECTORS | NEWYEAR,SAMEUS - DEPUTY SHERIFFS' ASSOCIATION OF SAN DIEGO ...
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SILVER STAR
DEPUTY SHERIFFS’ ASSOCIATION OF SAN DIEGO COUNTY
FEBRUARY 2021
INSIDE Meet the New Directors | New Year, Same Us The Strength
Behind the Badge
Law Enforcement
Officers Need.
Automobile & Motorcycle Accidents
Bodily Injury • Worker’s Compensation • Death Claims
Retirement Law • On & Off Duty
r Outstanding History of Success for Our Clients Includes:
We know What
3,000,000 verdict for medical malpractice
000,000 recovery for a workplace injury involving negligent
Law Enforcement
operation of a forklift
700,000 verdict for a propane explosion
Officers Need
500,000 recovery for a motor vehicle accident
250,000 recovery for a fire aboard a ship
200,000 recovery for a motor vehicle accident
800,000 recovery forAutomobile
a fall from&aMotorcycle
skylight in an unsafe work environme
Accidents
750,000 recovery
Bodilyfor a motor
Injury vehicle
• Worker’s accident • Death Claims
Compensation
Retirement
000,000 recovery for medical Law • On & Off Duty
malpractice
If you've been injured on or off the job or in a vehicular accident, you may have more
rights than you think. Call the Law Offices of Scott A. O'Mara to make sure you get quality
e also have been successful in litigation regarding a police officer’s
representation and everything you deserve. For more than 36 years, we've helped law
ht to have uninsured/underinsured coverage extended to his work
enforcement officers in matters pertaining to personal injury, Workers' Compensation and
retirement. Initial consultations are FREE, and our fee comes only from what we collect for
a motor officer.
you. To start getting the award or settlement you deserve, call:
1-800-LAW-1199
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a false or fraudulent Riverside
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a felony Counties
subject to up to 5 years in prison or a fine
of up to $50,000 or double the value of the fraud, whichever is greater, or by both imprisonment and fine.
Making a false or fraudulent workers’ compensation claim is a felony subject to up to 5 years in prison or a fine
of up to $50,000 or double the value of the fraud, whichever is greater, or by both imprisonment and fine.
DSA IN PICTURES
SNOW FOR
DAYS. Thanks to
Sergeant Howard
Kluge (Alpine)
and Detective
Eric Garcia
(also Alpine) for
sending these
chilly photos in.
There’s just snow
place like Alpine.
LAW ENFORCEMENT APPRECIATION day was January 9, and over a hundred of you participated in the event sponsored by the DSA
at a handful of local breweries. Special thanks to AleSmith Brewing Company, Coronado Brewing Company, Mother Earth Brewing, Pacific
Islander Brewing Company, and Protector Brewery for partnering up with us to pull this event off to make our members feel appreciated.
What do you think – is this event worthy of repeating next year? Let
us know at info@dsasd.org. Thanks to Corporal Natalie Crist from
LCDF Team 3 for sharing this photo!
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Silver Star ⭑ February 2021 1
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FEB
DEPUTY SHERIFFS’ ASSOCIATION OF SAN DIEGO COUNTY BOARD OF DIRECTORS
VOL 37 NO 2
OFFICE STAFF
Rachel Parrott - Chief Admin Officer
President Vice President Director Director
Louisa Hicks - Bookkeeper David Leonhardi Dawn Morabe Danielle Benjamin Raymond Castillo
Yvonne Waller - Receptionist
Monique Wengeler - Admin Assistant
DSA STORE
Chris Hennessey - Store Manager
Pauline Sullivan - Seamstress
SILVER STAR EDITOR
Alex Heckman
aheckman@dsasd.org
Director Director Director Director Director
Eric Garcia Ashley Lewis Derek Sanders Cliff Rinder Robert Shawcroft
Deadline for submitting an Fern Steiner, Labor Counsel | Bobbitt, Pinckard & Fields, A.P.C., Legal Counsel | John Wainio, Political Consultant
article is the 10 t h of the month
reports
prior to publication. All copy must
be submit ted with the name of
author, work location, and phone
number. Please e-mail submissions
4 President’s Report
to aheckman@dsasd.org.
DSA MISSION
The promotion of professionalism
in law enforcement by providing
11 Sheriff’s Report
15 Chaplain’s Corner
service to the community, working
with the Department and County
to represent deputy sheriffs of all
ranks in negotiating and protection
of their rights.
16 Ten 7
VALUES
Honesty, Integrity, Dedication,
Accountability, Respect,
Compassion, Courage and Trust
departments
features
The views, expressions, or opinions
of those writing for the Silver Star do
not necessarily express the opinions DSA in Pictures 1
or views of the DSA, the Publications
6 Meet Your New Directors
Staff, or any person or agency of the
County of San Diego. The Silver Star’s
DSA News 6
editorial policy is to allow members
to express their individual opinions Station Reps 6
9 Scholarships
and concerns within the necessary
considerations of legality and space. DSA Dates 7
Submissions that are racist, sex-
Announcements 12
ist, or unnecessarily inflammatory
13 New Year, Same Us
or offensive will not be published.
The Silver Star will not publish any
article which contains inappropri- Minutes 18
ate content as deemed by the editor,
staff of the DSA, and/or the Board Wellness Directory 22
of Directors. The Silver Star may not
Classified Ads 23
be used to air personal grievances or
engage in a debate with an individual,
unless it directly relates to the DSA
membership as a whole.
ON THE COVER:
Silver Star is the official monthly Deputy Janessa Gonzalez (Alpine) sent our
SILVER STAR
publication of the Deputy Sheriffs’ February photo cover in. (Thanks, Janessa!) She
Association of San Diego County is pictured with teammates Howard Kluge, Steve
13881 Danielson Street Kitcko, and Gilbert Trevino. Don’t know about
Poway, CA 92064-6891
Mailstop N241 (Attn: DSA)
you, but icy a great team here. ⭑
(858) 486-9009 or Silver Star (ISSN 1539-9982) is published monthly by the Deputy Sheriffs’ Association of San Diego County at their headquarters, 13881
(800) 266-5950 Danielson Street, Poway, California 92064-6891. No portion of this publication may be reprinted without the written permission of the
Fax (858) 486-8318 editor. © Copyright - Deputy Sheriffs’ Association of San Diego County. All rights reserved. Periodicals Postage Paid at San Diego, CA.
www.dsasd.org POSTMASTER: Send all UAA to CFS.
Silver Star ⭑ February 2021 3
Honor Our Fallen
at the 32nd Annual
Memorial Wake
Saturday, February 20, 2021
at the Deputy Sheriffs’ Association
13881 Danielson Street, Poway, CA 92064
H ORDER
C HE A LT
O PUBL I
D DUE T
NCEL L E
EN T CA
T EV he Memorial Wake was started by the beat partners of Deputy Ted Beckmann. Ted
was killed while on duty. We vowed to celebrate his life and NEVER FORGET him.
This became the Memorial Wake, which now honors the lives of all San Diego County
Deputies killed in the line of duty. Please join us in remembering our history and
celebrating the lives of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.
5:30 p.m. Check In
6:00 p.m. Dinner
6:30 p.m. Ceremony
7:30-10:00 p.m. Socializing
A donation can be made at the door. For more information, contact the following via County
email: Danielle Benjamin, Kai Bowman, Rob Cardenas, Nanette McMasters, Karla Menzies,
Kevin Menzies, Brittany Stubbs, or Noah Zarnow.
4 Silver Star ⭑February 2021
HOW TO REACH THE
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
President DAVID LEONHARDI
David Leonhardi
(619) 206-1605
DLeonhardi@dsasd.org
◄►
Vice President
Dawn Morabe
(760) 805-2104
DMorabe@dsasd.org A few weeks ago, the elections for DSA
director positions ended. This month we
welcome three new directors onto our board.
party have all been optimistically placed on
our 2021 events calendar. We hope to see many
members participate after a year-long hiatus
◄► Derek Sanders, Ashley Lewis, and Eric Garcia without in-person events.
are the three newest members to join our team
at the DSA. Each brings a wealth of knowledge The board will also gather at the end of February
Director Danielle Benjamin for two full days of training and organizational
(619) 694-8682 and skills and an excellent work ethic to boot.
Their full-time jobs in San Marcos patrol, Santee planning. It’s never too early to start focusing
DBenjamin@dsasd.org on and planning for local elections, considering
patrol, and Alpine detectives (respectively), were
clearly already enough work for them. But now contract issues, and brainstorming ways to
◄► improve membership benefits.
they have each volunteered to be a resource for
Director Raymond Castillo our members and help lead the DSA’s direction
As a team, the DSA board will be as engaged as
(619) 265-6381 as we move into the future.
ever on the issues affecting deputies the most.
RCastillo@dsasd.org But we will also ask for you and your family
Each year, the association strives to be better.
That’s especially true for 2021. The DSA is to be more engaged than ever before. Stand
◄► by for plenty of emails and other member
hopeful we will be able to serve you better than
ever as we (hopefully) come out of this pandemic. communications. If we want to be successful, we
Director Eric Garcia
(619) 504-2512 We’re excited to begin organizing in-person
member events again. The annual dinner dance,
all need to work together. ⭑
EGarcia@dsasd.org
a wine tasting event, and children’s Christmas
◄►
Director Ashley Lewis
(619) 997-9217
ALewis@dsasd.org
◄►
Director Cliff Rinder
(619) 857-5891 Specializing in
CRinder@dsasd.org
Diamonds ♦ Custom Design
◄► Repair ♦ Re-Purposing ♦ Appraisal
Director Derek Sanders Diamonds Gold & Platinum Restoration Laser Repairs/Weld
Gemstones Manufacturing Stone Re-setting Engraving
(858) 361-0994
DSanders@dsasd.org Don’t forget your DSA Discount!
◄►
Director Robert Shawcroft Gold, Jewelry and Estate Buyers, DiamondsLTD.com
(619) 933-9105 cash paid on the spot Navajo Rd & Fletcher Pkwy
in the CVS center
Any quantity, any condition,
RShawcroft@dsasd.org in strict confidence.
The Zwibel family has provided over 30 years of
Bonus paid for larger diamonds exceptional service in San Diego, with three
generations in both Jewelry and Law Enforcement.
Silver Star ⭑ February 2021 5
4S Ranch
Spencer Hildreth
news DSA | DEPARTMENT | COUNTY | INDUSTRY
DSASD Welcomes New
CAC WET Team
Jared Birrenkott
El Cajon Courts
Mark Bryan
Directors to Board
Randy Gulihur
Emergency Services
Fred Duey Detective Eric Garcia
Alpine Station
S TAT I O N R E P S
GCCCD
Shannon Justice • Years on: 9
• Previous assignments: Poway station, Ramona
Lakeside station, Santee station, Lakeside station
Shain Stoner
Las Colinas
Scott Johnson
Lemon Grove Sergeant Ashley Lewis
Aaron Montan Santee Station
NTF • Years on: 13
Frank Haskell • Previous assignments: LCDF, GBDF, Poway
station, Lemon Grove station, Rancho San
Poway
Diego station
Marshall Abbott
Prisoner Transportation
Matt Velarde
Rancho San Diego Deputy Derek Sanders
San Marcos Station
Corey McCoy
Ridgehaven • Years on: 14
Matthew Carpenter • Previous assignments: CSO, North Coastal
station, Del Mar Fairgrounds, Special Events
SDCJ Unit
Patrick McAnany
Timothy Richards
Santee
Freddy Herrero
South Bay Detentions
David Gerald DONOVAN J. JACOBS
Valley Center
Attorney at Law • (Retired SDPD)
I REPRESENT LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS IN CIVIL LITIGATION
Brian Simpson
Personal Injury (Traffic Accidents)
Vista Station Discipline Appeals
Matthew Harrel Civil Service & Skelly Hearings
Legal Questions? Call:
Interested in becoming a (619) 445-8650
station rep? At least one
rep is needed per team.
(619) 722-6009 (FAX)
Email info@dsasd.org for DonovanJJ@yahoo.com
more information.
6 Silver Star ⭑February 2021
>> Tell Your Story
A “Day in the Life of a Deputy” Monthly Submission Contest
The DSA office remains
closed due to the current
public health order, but staff
are available by phone and
email Monday through Friday,
D S A D AT E S
8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Current DSA Store hours are
The DSA is now accepting submissions in the form of pictures + anecdotes that Monday through Friday, 9:00
showcase a “day of the life” of a deputy. Submissions can be from on or off-duty a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
adventures you deem fun, funny, interesting, or inspiring. In telling our stories, our
All updates on this topic will
communities at home and at work can get to know us on a more personal level, which
be communicated via email.
can foster trust, build morale, and help humanize our profession. Please contact the DSA with
questions at (858) 486-9009
Each submission is equal to one entry into a monthly drawing for a $50 DSA store or info@dsasd.org.
gift card. Send entries to info@dsasd.org. Photos may be used on social media or in
the Silver Star. Gift card winners will be drawn on the last weekday of each month.
Upcoming DSA Closures
February 15
March 31
MAGEN Online Security Upcoming General
The DSA has partnered with MAGEN Online Member Meetings
Security to offer a special DSA member rate February 11
of $45/year. To register, visit https://law- March 11
enforcement.magen.online and use promotional All meetings will be
code DSASD during checkout. Information can conducted virtually via Zoom
also be found on the DSA website at www.dsasd. teleconference until further
org/magen-online-security (login required). notice. Meeting links can
be found on the DSA online
events calendar.
DSF Scholarship Application
LIVING TRUST
Deadline
April 2
New Scholarships are offered
Pkg $795.00 to DSA members and their
Law Enforcement Price dependents. Visit www.dsasd.
In-Home Appointments Available org/scholarships for more
information and to access
includes Wills and Powers of Attorneys
the member and dependent
RONALD A. HAUSER
applications. Applications must
be received by April 2, 2021.
Attorney at Law
(619) 206-3811
(619) 319-5171
♦ PROBATE SERVICES AVAILABLE ♦
Silver Star ⭑ February 2021 7
news DSA | DEPARTMENT | COUNTY | INDUSTRY
Members: Are you receiving FINANCIAL PLANNING
email updates from the DSA? GIFT AVAILABLE
for Active Class 1 DSA Members
Subscribe today for: Experiencing Financial Hardship
Member communication on topics from
negotiations to DSA Store news and The DSA is offering to cover up to four
months of financial planning costs
everything in between through Facet Wealth for Class 1 Active
members experiencing personal financial
Opportunities to support the hardship as a result of a death,
Deputy Sheriffs’ Foundation divorce, or disability. Contact us at
info@dsasd.org for more information.
Legislative updates & more!
SUBSCRIBE ONLINE
WWW.DSASD.ORG WRITE FOR THE SILVER STAR
REPORTS & FEATURES NEEDED
EMAIL AHECKMAN@DSASD.ORG
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8 Silver Star ⭑February 20212021 SDCDSF CLEA
SCHOLARSHIPS
Member & Dependent Scholarship Applications Available Now
SCHOLARSHIPS
SCHOLARSHIPS FOR HIGH
SCHOOL SENIORS AND
LINE OF DUTY SCHOLARSHIPS SOPHOMORES & JUNIORS IN
COLLEGE
For DSA Member Dependents
We are again very pleased to
The San Diego County Deputy Sheriff's Foundation (SDCDSF) will award a total of announce a special Children’s
nine scholarships each at $2,000 to dependents of active or retired DSA members. Scholarship Program that will be
These scholarships are awarded in memory of the nine SDSD Deputies who have given donated by our Long Term Disability
their lives in the line of duty. insurance plan administrators,
California Administration
WHO IS ELIGIBLE? Insurance Services, Inc.
Scholarships will be awarded to children of Active and Retired DSA members. To
Scholarship distribution will consist
qualify for the scholarships, students must be accepted to an accredited two- or
of $2,000, or four awards at $500
four-year college or university during the term immediately following high school each. Three awards will go to high
graduation. school seniors and one award will
go to a sophomore or junior in
CRITERIA FOR SELECTION college. Applicants must be enrolled
Candidates for the scholarships will be evaluated on Academic Achievement, or planning to enroll in a full-time
Character, and Leadership. While the athletic achievement of candidates will be course of study at an accredited
looked at, it is not a determining factor for scholarships to be awarded. Candidates college, university, or vocational-
must maintain a minimum 3.0 grade point average based on a weighted scale. technical school. Please visit our
website for more details.
APPLICATIONS
Applicants must be the child of a
Complete information and the application can be obtained at the DSA Office or online CLEA Plan Participant who has
at www.dsasd.org/scholarships. The application should be mailed to the Scholarship participated since April 1, 2020 or
Chairperson, Deputy Sheriffs’ Association, 13881 Danielson Street, Poway, CA 92064. prior, or child of NPFBA Participant
Applications for scholarships must be received by the Scholarship Chairperson on who has participated since April 1,
or before April 2, 2021. 2020.
The application may be downloaded
by going to California Law
Enforcement Association’s website at
DSA MEMBER SCHOLARSHIPS www.CLEA.org/scholarship.
SDCDSF will award a total of four scholarships at $2,000 each to Active DSA members The application must be completed
in good standing. Payments will only be made to the school. Any Active DSA and postmarked by April 30, 2021.
Member in good standing who has been a member for at least one year may apply
This is a valuable opportunity
for the scholarship. Member must be enrolled in an accredited College or University. to provide your children with
Continuing education and online courses qualify if University or College is accredited. scholarship money in order to help
Complete information and the application can be obtained at the DSA Office or online them attain their higher education
at www.dsasd.org/scholarships. A personal essay must accompany the application. goals! Act now.
The deadline for all SDCDSF scholarship applications is
April 2, 2021. Applications must be received by 5 p.m. on
April 2. Late applications will not be considered. More
information and applications available at www.dsasd.org/
PORAC SCHOLARSHIPS
scholarships.
Each year, PORAC is honored to provide a Scholarship Program,
DID YOU KNOW? which is available to the dependents of our active and retired
members and the spouse or dependent of an active member
The DSA reimburses 100% of textbook costs who died in the line of duty. Members who have medically
for Class 1 Active members pursuing degrees in retired from a regular PORAC association are eligible for the
higher education. Contact the DSA at info@dsasd. scholarship as well. PORAC’s Scholarship Program provides
org for more information. financial assistance to applicants who are attending or will be
registering for college. Visit the PORAC website for information
on the 2021 scholarship program. The deadline is March 5, 2021.
Silver Star ⭑ February 2021 9DSA STATION REPS NEEDED!
REPRESENT THE DEPUTIES ON YOUR TEAM
Station representatives are essential to the mission and the efficiency of the
Association. At least 1 representative per team is needed.
What does a DSA station rep do?
Relay information from DSA meetings to the DSA members on your team and work location
Provide input on command requests
Post DSA event + program flyers at your work location
Help brainstorm ideas for social events, wellness events, community + public relations
Write a station report for the Silver Star or provide content for the DSA's social media channels
Requirements: What's In It for You:
Current DSA member in good standing Serve your fellow deputies
Attend virtual or in-person member First to know important association information
meetings on the second & fourth Thursdays Up to $150 in gift cards to the DSA Store
of each month depending on participation
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT DANIELLE BENJAMIN
DBENJAMIN@DSASD.ORG
www.dsasd.org/station-rep-program
10 Silver Star ⭑February 2021sheriff | report
Update from San Diego County Sheriff Bill Gore
Media Relations
L ast month, Lieutenant Rick Lopez, our Media Relations Director, wrote
a Silver Star article introducing his team and explaining their roles
in the Media Relations Unit. The Media Relations Unit serves a critical
program has been popular amongst residents and the media, which in turn
has reduced calls to our communication center and stations. The program
has also gained the attention of other local law enforcement agencies who
role within the department by providing pertinent, timely, and truthful have expressed a desire to implement a similar program in their cities.
information to the news media and the communities we serve. Primarily,
the Media Relations Unit disseminates accurate information about our As noted in last month’s Media Relations Unit article, our Twitter and
department, investigations we are handling, and events that could impact Instagram accounts have a combined following of 68,000 followers and
the public’s safety. our department’s Nextdoor footprint covers over 240,000 followers. These
platforms are being utilized by the Media Relations Unit to educate the
In this digital age, people have a thirst for information which can be public on the AutoHelo program. The popularity of the AutoHelo program
quenched virtually anywhere with the proliferation of handheld mobile demonstrates the success of this education campaign and speaks to the
devices. There are an unlimited number of sources to obtain information, influence our department has with our social media accounts.
whether it’s via a private Facebook group, Nextdoor, Instagram, YouTube,
Twitter, or one of the many other news or social media apps. Gossip, false The Media Relations Unit is constantly trying to improve and increase our
information, and incorrect reporting that once spread slowly and took use of social media. Through social media, the unit provides information to
days or weeks to gain traction can now spread and impact thousands of our citizens, tells our story, and humanizes our deputies, giving a glimpse
people in a matter of seconds. Often, inaccurate information spreads so into the hard work you do and the fun you have while doing it. Lt. Lopez’s
quickly that correcting it becomes an impossible task. Law enforcement article said it best, “You are the eyes and ears of our department. We want
has a duty to provide citizens with accurate information expeditiously to to hear from you!” I encourage all of you to reach out to the staff at the
avoid unwarranted panic and provide direction for safe responses to threats Media Relations Unit and maintain open communication to share the
in their communities. entertaining videos and images you all see every day, in addition to the
stories behind the dangerous and hard work you do. Remember, the public
Recently, our department launched the AutoHelo program to increase supports you and wants to share moments with you. Sharing our moments
our ability to quickly provide accurate and relevant information to the via our department’s social media accounts is a great way to positively
community. This program was created by our Data Services Division impact thousands of people in the communities we serve.
after community members expressed the need for improvement on the
announcements made by our aerial support units. The AutoHelo program As we leave 2020 behind us, I want you all to know how proud I am of each
is a free service that allows residents to receive a text message issued by the of you and your efforts during a truly unprecedented year. I look forward
Sheriff ’s Department by texting the word “HELLO” to the phone number to 2021 and I am confident that whatever lies ahead, the men and women
858-866-4356. The message will explain the announcements being made
by our deputies flying in our skies. Simultaneously, this same information
of the San Diego Sheriff ’s Department will rise to the occasion.
⭑
is also being provided via our department’s Twitter account. So far, this Bill Gore, Sheriff
Silver Star ⭑ February 2021 11Congrats & Announcements
Deputy Cory Green
(North Coastal) and
family welcomed son
Weston Hayes Green on
August 28, 2020 at 8:28
a.m. Congratulations
Green family! Looks like
you’ve got yourselves a
little deputy-in-training.
Weston Hayes Green
Andrea Elizabeth Tran
Deputy Alex Tran (North Coastal)
and his wife Elizabeth welcomed
their second daughter, Andrea
Elizabeth Tran, on December 14,
2020 at 10:10 a.m. Big sister Leila
Rae (3) is reportedly very happy
with her recent promotion. Great
job, Tran family!
Juniper Jean Danza
On November 10, 2020, Detective Nicholas Danza (Fallbrook)
and his wife Angelique Danza welcomed their second child, Another tiny deputy-
Juniper Jean Danza. Juniper was 7.2 pounds and 20 ½ inches in-training! Sweet
when born. Congratulations, Danzas! Adam David Legler
was born September
26, 2020 at 2:11 p.m. to
parents Deputy David
Legler (GBDF) and
Speaking For the Working Person, Deputy Annette Abril
Speaking For You... (Rancho San Diego).
Adam weighed 5
Smith | Steiner | Vanderpool pounds, 5 ounces and
Specializing in Labor and Employment Law, Personal Injury, was 18 inches long at
Medical Malpractice, Sexual Harassment, Product Liability, birth. Congratulations
and Workers’ Compensation to the Legler & Abril
family!
401 West A St, Suite 340 • San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 756-7007 • Fax (619) 501-8194
SINCE 1983 Adam David Legler
12 Silver Star ⭑February 2021New Year, Same Us
by DSA Director Danielle Benjamin
J anuary is typically the month for resolutions, and by February most
resolutions are long in the rearview mirror. A U.S. News & World
Report article on this topic stated that just 8 percent of people achieve
clear and knowledgeable on the laws, what we are legally able to do and
not do, our policies, and our mission. If we are firmly knowledgeable in
these areas, we are equipped to make the swift decisions we need to make
their New Year’s goals, while around 80 percent fail to keep their New in this career without hesitation. Be prepared to be the Deputy Sheriff our
Year’s resolutions1. Unrealistic expectations are a big reason resolutions community needs. If you know of or see a partner that needs help in one
fail. I want you all to know it’s ok to be the same person you were in 2020. of these areas or is doing something wrong, say something. We are Deputy
You are a Deputy Sheriff and should be very proud of who you are and Sheriffs, and we handle business. We all wear the same badge and hold the
the impact you make. same reputation in the public’s eye. Be very proud of that fact and protect
that reputation with all you have.
Last year we saw changes to laws and policy. Although some say we need to
see significant change to law enforcement, I would like you all to be proud Know there is still a large portion of our community that loves, respects,
of the job we do. Look at the reasons we chose this career path. We wanted and supports us. They are thankful for us each and every day. They are in
to serve to make a meaningful impact. We have a love for the people in our awe of the sacrifices we have made and those we would be willing to make
community. We feel a sense of duty, a desire to solve problems, help people if put in that position. The DSA is also here to support you, our members,
make better choices, and even save lives. I hope you still have those feelings as “the Strength Behind the Badge.” Please reach out to me if you have any
in your heart today. Your career has molded you into the person you are ideas on how the DSA can additionally support our members.
today, and with that experience, you are now able to serve better than ever.
As 2021 progresses and your resolutions fall to the side, feel content and
I was hired as a Corrections Deputy in 1997 and have had a varied career be proud of the Deputy Sheriff you are and the gift you are to this world.
across all bureaus. I am very proud of the many experiences I have had With a servant’s heart we go into each day and make a difference. You are
over the years, as I hope each and every one of you are as well. There have
been highs and lows; some days were better than others. But we will never
AWESOME! ⭑
1
Joseph Luciani (2015). ‘Why 80 Percent of New Year’s Resolutions Fail’, U.S. News & World Report, 29 December.
know all the lives we have touched in our professional duties as there is a Available at https://health.usnews.com/health-news/blogs/eat-run/articles/2015-12-29/why-80-percent-of-
ripple effect on the world with each of our experiences. Some are obvious, new-years-resolutions-fail
such as helping a person in crisis, but others may be more far-reaching. A
conversation with an inmate can turn their life around or make a significant
difference in the lives of their children. A drug or drunk-driving arrest can
save numerous lives and even cause someone to get clean. A group effort
to confront crime in a neighborhood affects all citizens. We should all go
home at the end of each shift proud of our service. Also, be proud of the
decision you made to start and continue in this career. Be proud to be a
Deputy Sheriff.
With a long career comes mistakes. We have all made them. American poet
Nikki Giovanni has said, “Mistakes are a fact of life. It is the response to
error that counts.” I believe a mistake is an opportunity to grow and learn.
Yet, in this profession, we must do all we can to minimize our missteps.
We are human and can prepare ourselves to the best of our ability. We all
know the saying “with great power comes great responsibility,” and our
communities are expecting more from us now than ever. We must be very
Silver Star ⭑ February 2021 13Honoring Our
FallenOF Heroes
California Professional Peace Officers
WE TAKE CARE
OUR OWN Always have. Always will.
he beautiful bronze and granite California Peace Officers’
Memorial located on State Capitol grounds in Sacramento
contains the names of more than 1,600 courageous peace officers
who have laid down their lives in the line of duty protecting and serving
their fellow Californians. Tragically, every year more names are added
to our hallowed monument.
YOU CAN HELP the CPOMF in our mission to underwrite the
annual California Peace Officers’ Memorial Ceremony, maintain the
memorial monument, subsidize survivor support groups, and support
the families of our fallen heroes through our educational grant and
financial assistance programs.
California law allows taxpayers to make voluntary tax-free contributions
on their personal state income tax returns to the “California Peace
Officers’ Memorial Foundation Fund”. Simply indicate the amount to
be donated where instructed on the tax return form. Importantly, the
law requires that all contributions be used to maintain the California
Peace Officers’ Memorial and for activities in support of the surviving
families of our brave men and women peace officers who have made
the ultimate sacrifice. We urge the more than 100,000 peace officers
serving California to help us TAKE CARE OF OUR OWN.
A SMALL DONATION OF $20 MAKES A DIFFERENCE
FORM
California Resident Income Tax Return 2020 540
California Peace Officer Memorial
Foundation Fund • 408 $20 00
110 Add code 400 through code 419. This is your total contribution •110 00
The CPOMF is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization, Federal Tax ID #95-4350983
For more information please visit www.camemorial.orgchaplain’s corner | report
Chaplain’s Corner
by Chaplain Herb Smith
“Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is Both “cultures” propounded love, but one destroyed its enthusiasts and the
evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one other restored and transformed them. So, what is the love that we really
another in brotherly love, preferring honor to need and long for? True love, to begin with, is what we devote and impart
each other; be diligent and fervent in serving toward others, meaning our only benefit is the knowledge and satisfaction
that the other person is adorned and beautified. The description given out
the Lord; rejoice in hope, persevere in troubles of the Bible above is a perfect recipe for how one loves the people in their
while being devoted to prayer; contribute to life. And certainly it is costly, inconvenient, and sacrificial to engage it. But
the needs of each other and practice hospitality. we really do not notice the effort that goes into genuinely loving someone
Bless those who wrong you and do not curse them. because of the joy of seeing them loved and enlarged and encouraged and
enlivened by it. Love is a powerful force for change and impacts us so
Rejoice with those in joy, and weep with those
intensely because, in its purest form, it is entirely selfless, and rarely do we
in sorrow. Be like-minded, and associate with ever behold authentic acts by a human being that are genuinely selfless.
the lowly. Don’t think too highly of yourself. It shocks us.
Never pay back evil for evil. Respect what is
right among men and strive for peace. Never take One of my favorite lines from the film “The Princess Bride” is by the
character Dred Pirate Roberts, aka Wesley, who declared to his doubting
your own revenge, for vengeance belongs to the beau, “Death cannot stop true love. All it can do is delay it for a while.”
Lord. Rather if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if There’s truth to that emotionally, but it also gives a nod to the true
he is thirsty give him a drink… and so do not be immortality and transcendence of sincere, unaffected love. It is timeless,
overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good… fearless, and eternal. You can never love anyone less than you truly love
them now, and it never dies. It may suffer delay, but its destiny is never in
Love does no wrong to a neighbor; love therefore
doubt and it can never be canceled, repudiated, or reversed. It is eternal.
fulfills the law.” (Romans 12:9-21; 13:10)
Yet more than all of this, true love is the architectural splendor of God’s
“True love is usually the most inconvenient kind.” - Kiera Cass image in and through us. When God’s Spirit joyfully animates us, we
cannot help but pass it along to everyone we encounter. It is like Snoopy
“True love is selfless. It is prepared to sacrifice.” - Sadhu Vaswani when he starts dancing on a spring day. The first person he meets is often
sour puss Lucy to whom he gives a big kiss on the lips, which mortifies her
“What the world needs now, is love, sweet love…” Such was the chorus line but enlivens him. Such is the joy of being fully known and loved by a God
of the popular 60s song, one that advised God about what we needed Who freely gives us a gift of grace that restores our hope and awakens the
more than another mountain or wheat field. God has known this from the power and purpose of His eternity in our hearts. And such is the reason
beginning and has ever since given us that love in Himself, along with the God created us to begin with: a love and desire to reflect His heart in His
ways, means and formula to produce that in us, guaranteed, every time, if order of creation, forevermore. Mankind’s fall from that divine and ideal
we will follow it. A glance through the passage above shows us that love order brought death and decay, disorder and despair, darkness and…delay.
starts with the giver of it, and spreads from there. It is also conveyed by But it didn’t destroy God’s ultimate conception of what is good, true and
every means of expression – by voice, tone, facial look, gesture and written beautiful, and making us by His grace reflections and rivers of that reality.
word – and impacts us systemically, even to the synapse between soul You might say our brokenness delayed true love for a while, but it did
and spirit. And it is true love that inspires us, changes, and transforms us, not stop it. It died, and was resurrected, and its Spirit flowed into all who
altering the very chemistry of our body and brain, and compels us toward
acts of sacrifice and service unflagging and resolute.
would receive it. Nothing else is more immortal and genuine than that.
⭑
The song above was written during the 60s when the Viet Nam war, race
riots, assassinations, and political cover-ups were rife. The young hip culture
sought love by tripping on drugs and sexual liberation which only destroyed Seeking Support
minds and blighted relationships. But it was also a time when another
cultural interchange transpired among mostly young people in teens and To make a confidential connection with a chaplain,
twenties, called the “Jesus Movement.” A whole subculture of spiritual simply text or call (760) 445-8668.
renewal and community arose, and its profile in music, Christian ethos,
and charismatic worship continue to this day. Many of its chief adherents To make a general contact with an area chaplain call (858) 565-
were those coming out of the drug culture that had ravaged them and were 5030 or send an email to SheriffChaplain@sdsheriff.org.
recovered by it. Was God answering that song’s prayer?
Silver Star ⭑ February 2021 15report | retired
TEN 7
TEN 7by Greg Reynolds
One of the greatest rock and roll bands ever was the Eagles! Here are two
pictures of Russ Moore and his wife Lisa standing on the corner in Winslow,
Arizona with the Eagle statues commemorating that great song. Russ and
Lisa traveled to Arizona for a quick COVID19 sanity outing and rode the
train from Williams to the Grand Canyon and back. I’ve done that trip and
it’s a must do, especially if you’re bitten by the railroad bug as some of us
are. Jim Blanco, Don Fowler, Mike Barletta, and the list goes on.
“When the Legend Becomes Fact,
Print the Legend”
H ello February. The shortest month of the year. And speaking of
short, here’s a short quote from the great Will Rogers; “The older we
get, the fewer things seem worth waiting in line for.” True!
Seems that the pretty boys of SED challenged a bunch of over-the-hill
40-year-old guys to a run around Fiesta Island sometime circa 1991/1992.
Per one of the old guys, Conrad Grayson, they kicked SED’s young butts!
Featured in this picture are: Jock Ogle, Brandon Armstrong, Conrad An update on the old Ramona property that the DSA
Grayson, Bob Burger, Bill McCracken, Charlie Campe, Dick Reed, Fred used to have access to from Jerry McCawley: Exxon
Freiburg, Tim Carroll, unknown, and Ed Stalder. owned the property and did indeed allow what was
then the Sheriff ’s Relief Association to use the acreage.
A stipulation was that someone from the SO had to
live there full-time. My brother-in-law, Jack Everett, a
deputy, lived there with my sister Mary Jane and 4 kids.
He was killed in a horseback accident in April of ‘71.
One of my cub reporters, Valinda Sutton, tells a great
story of when she was in the Sheriff ’s Academy. Seems
she was trying to get some extra work in the gym
during lunch period (can you say teacher suck-up?)
and one of the Training Officers, Mike Miller, was
in the gym as well. Miller asked
Sutton how the Academy was
going for her and she said fine
but that she had a really strange
Training Officer. Miller starter
So, I had the chance to visit Karen pumping her for info on the
Axel in her mini-mansion off TO, and Sutton, being the naïve
of Dehessa Road (again, where rookie, confided in him that her
do retired deputies get their TO, Gary Williams, reminded
money????) and Leah Ellington her of the cartoon character
was there. Leah was picking up a Popeye. (You know where this is
stain glass piece for her husband going, right?) Miller, of course,
Rick and she still is adamant relayed the entire conversation to
about having a retirement party Williams and for the rest of the
for him down the road. I think Academy Sutton did extra push-
he deserves one…42 years on the ups, 153s, etc. Valinda regularly
job! Karen begged me to write sees Gary and his wife Denise
that she is single now and really, walking on a common trail and
really wants someone to date. she couldn’t resist sending this
I told her that Ten 7 was not a enhanced photo she took to me.
dating site but try and tell Karen Interestingly enough, Gary’s dog
anything she doesn’t want to hear. Her requirements are that the future is named Valinda. Small world?
Mr. Axel be alive, can stand up, feed himself, and also be able to garden.
Wearing Depends is not a disqualifier. Some of you have sent me info on what you’re doing in these COVID19
16 Silver Star ⭑February 2021retired | report
pandemic times. I thought it was only fair to share so that others might Jeopardy with my own family and again, getting beat bad by the kids and
get inspired: wife. Do you see a frigging pattern here? Jeopardy…a game that requires
intelligence. I really should have paid more attention in class.
Earl Wentworth is still riding in his golf car up and down the streets
of Ramona trying to get pulled over by Cal Fire again for driving over But, actually, I’m not complaining because I’m a Senager (Senior Teenager).
fire hoses. I have everything that I wanted as a teenager, only 60 years later. I don’t
have to go to school or work. I get an allowance every month. I have my
Bob Apostolos is trying to organize a Cop’er Bowl Reunion, but nobody own pad. I don’t have a curfew. I have a driver’s license and my own car.
believes he actually played in the Cop’er Bowl, so nobody responds to The people I hang around with are not scared of getting pregnant. I don’t
his pitiful emails. have acne. When you think about it, life is great.
Russ Moore has been shopping for Viking outfits as he really liked the In closing, I like these words from Joe Nichols in a song…“Unsinkable ships
attire of that Viking guy that stormed the capital building. The helmet sink, Unbreakable walls break, but NEVER underestimate the impossible.”
covers the bald head so well. I hear from a lot of you and know that many are suffering, both mentally
and physically, but stay strong. We, as a group of retirees, are always there
Valinda Sutton has signed a contract with a taser company as a model. for each other and need to remember that we’ve survived bad juju in the
You’ve heard of crash test dummies? Well, she is the frontrunner of that past and we will survive again. It’s in our SDSO genes.
genre for the taser industry. She says that with her newfound wealth she
is going to buy a PR person who will convince the public that Valinda Send me stuff ! I’m always on lookout for more targets…er, I mean
actually hikes. interesting stories on what you all are doing in these golden years. My
email is pv3and2@sbcglobal.net. Yeah, I know it’s a very old email address,
Tony Ray and Hank Turner have posted a picture of me in the lobby of
Ridgehaven advising the gate guards to not allow me in. This is due to
but I hate change.
⭑
my ability to stretch the truth just a tad. I didn’t appreciate that. After
all, have you ever seen Tony or Hank successfully qualify on the range?
Yeah, neither have I.
On a more somber note, we lost
retired Deputy Nancy Denton
Support San
who passed away on January 7,
2021. Nancy had a great outgoing
personality and always had an
upbeat attitude at the retirement
Diego Law
luncheons, even when she was going
through all the trials and tribulations
of her medical problems. Reitred
Deputies Fred and Kim Houry
En orcement
were Sheriff Explorers in 1984 and
remember Nancy as their advisor. In
fact, they met when she took them to
their first Explorer meeting. That was
a good meeting for Fred. But Kim?
Not so much.
Buying or Selling your Home?
Alan Truitt sent me a great picture
of a group of oldsters hiking on the
I donate from every transaction to provide
South Kaibab Trail in the Grand college scholarships to children of San Diego
Canyon last November. Pictured First Responders!
are Bob and Kim Baker, Denise and
Gary Williams, Jim Marmack, Aimee
Truitt, and Alan. Did you know that
Kaibab means “Old People Who Still
Hike But Stop a Lot for Potty Breaks”
in Indian lingo?
Garrett Trainor
And it’s going to be a change this year REALTOR®
watching one of my favorite shows, Jeopardy, without Alex Trebek at the BRE #01945714
host podium. I remember growing up with Jeopardy, getting beat by my
family members trying to play along. I remember how big Jeopardy was
Phone | 619-630-8826
in college to the point that my fraternity brothers in Sigma Chi bought Email | GTrainor@First-LineRealty.com
clickers so we could drink beer and yell out the answers. And then watching Web | First-LineRealty.com
Silver Star ⭑ February 2021 17Minutes
President David Leonhardi called the Meeting of the Board of Directors Motion/Gardenhire, SECOND/Morabe to come out of closed session at
to order on December 10, 2020 at 2:03 p.m. 4:32 p.m.
ROLL CALL OF DIRECTORS: 1) APPEARANCES:
Present: Castillo, Crowl, Gardenhire, Fifita, McCurdy, Leonhardi, Morabe, a) Commander Maryon - DSA Election 2:00 p.m.
Leonhardi, Shawcroft i) HR Commander Maryon came to the board to discuss the
Absent: dos and don’ts for the current members running for the
DSA Board of Directors. Commander Maryon advised
Members in Attendance: that those running for the board need commander-level
Eric Garcia approval to attend briefings; however, candidates should
Scott Johnson be aware of complaints made by fellow deputies when
Ashley Lewis association business is discussed at briefings. Department
John Maryon email should not be used to communicate about campaigns.
Aaron Meelen An email will be sent out department-wide to reiterate the
Benjamin Nazerian guidelines.
Tim Richards
Derek Sanders 2) CONSENT CALENDAR:
a) Minutes from November 12, 2020
Upon motion by Fifita, Second by Castillo, and passed by unanimous vote, b) Retirements
the December 10, 2020 meeting of the Board of Directors entered into i) William Altenhof – 31 years of membership - $7,950
closed session at 3:30 p.m. for confidential communications to include ii) Karla Bryan – 18 years of membership - $3,900
Rachel Parrott and Fern Steiner. iii) James Cady – 28 yeas of membership - $6,900
iv) Fred Church – 19 years of membership - $4,200
1) DISCUSSION: v) Frank Clamser – 29 years of membership (19 as class
a. Staff 1) - $5,200
b. Legal Issue vi) Denese Deal – 21 years of membership - $4,800
vii) Israel Harris – 18 years of membership - $3,900
viii) Norman Hubert – 28 years of membership (24 as class
1) - $6,100
ix) Christopher Lovato –12 years of membership - $2,400
x) Edward Villa – 16 years of membership - $3,300
xi) Patrick Yates – 31 years of membership - $7,950
Protect Your Future Pension & Assets with
Long Term Care Coverage MOTION/Morabe, SECOND/Gardenhire to approve the consent
calendar. Motion unanimously carries.
3) PRESIDENT’S REPORT: Leonhardi
a) COVID Outbreak
i) President Leonhardi discussed a few instances of COVID
outbreaks in the jails. Leonhardi advised that the county
does not want to mandate COVID testing for employees,
but it is a possibility if the outbreaks continue. Leonhardi
conferred with Attorney Fern Steiner and she confirmed
Additional features:
• $1 million dollar that the county can legally mandate testing. Steiner advised
NPFBA Long Term Care Benefits benefit limit that, though employers can mandate testing, it is something
• Home Health Care, Assisted Living/Residential
• Age based payments that is a bargaining item, so the DSA then can request a
with multiple payment
Care & Nursing Home Care term lengths
Meet & Confer on that. Regarding the vaccine, there are
• Lifetime benefits (Maximum $1 million) • Waiver of payments some exemptions such as: religious, disabilities, medical
• No lifetime payments while receiving conditions, etc.
benefits ii) Leonhardi mentioned he was told by the department that
• 3% Cost of Living increase for first 26 years
• 60 or 90 day
• Benefits are tax-free elimination period
they have no intention of mandating vaccines.
• Portable coverage throughout the United States based on health at iii) Morabe advised that PORAC discussed this as well at the
• Death Benefit to age 75 application chapter meeting.
• Members choose iv) Director Castillo stated he was notified of eight deputies
• Respite Care – For primary caregiver
care providers
• Two plans available
who tested positive in South Bay jail. He also advised of
an email regarding new housing guidelines that came out
TM
Mention
seeing our ad through JPMU talking about the inmates who test positive
in
Sponsored by California Law Silver Star for COVID and issuing new housing assignments.
Enforcement Association
b) DSA COVID Response
National Peace Officers and Fire Fighters Benefit Association i) Leonhardi discussed the department’s creation of the
(877) 582-0003 • WWW.NPFBA.ORG COVID enforcement team. This received a strong response
Illustration Only - See Plan Document for specific information. CA Insurance License #0544968 from the public as well as the deputies and the concern of
Available to all active law enforcement personnel and their spouses. what the enforcement team entails. Leonhardi stated in
Must apply before 61st birthday or retirement. order to assist with helping the community/deputies see
18 Silver Star ⭑February 2021what the deputies role actually is, the DSA and Director
Benjamin who is a part of the COVID team opted to 4) VICE PRESIDENT’S REPORT: Morabe
create a video to attempt to redirect some of the frustration a) No report.
on deputies to the leaders who are actually making the
decisions. 5) SECRETARY/TREASURER REPORT: McCurdy
ii) Benjamin reiterated the fact that it’s important for everyone a) UBS Update
to know what exactly the team is doing. They are not trying i) The current investments for 2020 are up 10.14% and the
to shut business down or kicking people out. She stated total portfolio investments are at $9.3 million year to date.
this is political and a work in progress. She stated that the
District Attorney’s office had discussed civil injunctions and 6) COMMITTEE REPORT
there is a question as to whether the COVID enforcement a) FINANCE/BUDGET: McCurdy
team will be involved in those. i) Budget adjustment for retirement account
iii) Steiner advised the county council and sheriff ’s legal need (1) We had an increase in DSA retirements. We need to
to weigh in and state that the deputies shouldn’t enforce increase the retirement budget by $56,000.
civil suits. She asked Benjamin to keep her updated on
any information on whether that is actually what they are MOTION/McCurdy SECOND/Fifita to increase the 2020 retirement
asking of the team. budget by $56,000. Motion unanimously carries
iv) Morabe stated she doesn’t think the DSA should be
spending the members’ money to do a PR campaign for b) PORAC: Morabe
the department’s COVID decision. She said we need to i) State Board of Directors meeting
look at our function as an association. The Sheriff has done (1) Morabe advised of new bills that may coming down
different interviews, and it’s a department/sheriff issue. As the pipeline soon. Morabe advised of the legislative
a union it isn’t our responsibility to use membership dues swearing-in and the broad spectrum of LE reform
to convince members that what the sheriff is doing is right, bills that were presented. She stated there are two law
and if he wants to do a campaign to get more support from enforcement licensing bills being proposed and the
the deputies, then he should do that with media relations likelihood that California Law enforcement will see a
and the department. licensing requirement is strong. Skinner reintroduced
v) Benjamin stated that she brought this up to Leonhardi, and the expansion bill on 1421 but has reached out to
it was her opinion that it does benefit the members. It is PORAC. Gonzalez reintroduced her ban on chemical
deputies and members that are out there, actively working weapons and has reached out to PORAC as well.
and encountering the public. She believes it is a benefit to Bradford reintroduced his licensing bill, and Atkins,
the members to have a positive interaction with the public a coauthor, has reached out to PORAC.
and public perception of deputies. She stated that we need (2) Morabe advised that PORAC is going to put together
support from the public and this is one thing that the DSA a police reform bill package. PORAC discussed the
needs to do more public outreach, especially with the issue with the DA race in LA and spending $1.3
current social climate, and all the negativity towards law million in that race and losing. Moving forward, they
enforcement. are concerned about Orange County and San Diego
vi) Leonhardi advised that we were not doing this to support DA races.
the Sheriff, the DSA position is partially contradictory to (3) Morabe stated that Adams and Ferone shared
what the Sheriff has said. The DSA is educating the public about military leave policies and potential internal
that deputies are not actually coming into the church or investigations related to those policies and stated she
businesses and closing them down. Leonhardi advised he is going to review the department’s policy.
does think it is important to get the message out to not only
the public, but to the members and redirect the frustration c) POLITICAL ACTION: Leonhardi
people have. They can be mad at the Sheriff if they choose, i) Legislative update
but we want them to know deputies are not the bad guys, (1) Mathias Tucunduva from The San Diego Group gave
we are just following orders. a presentation to the board. He advised that they
vii) Shawcroft then asked why the department is not taking a are currently preparing a video regarding the DSA’s
stance on this and why again is the DSA involved, being community/member involvement. The goal is to
that it sounds more like a department issue. Shawcroft ramp up the social media presence, so that the DSA
questioned why the DSA would want to put something out as a brand is seen more widely and moves away from
that is contradictory to the Sheriff. being purely a political indicator.
viii) Leonhardi advised that the department did take a stance, (2) The DSA’s Sacramento Lobbyist Darrell Lucien
but it is our job to show that we do see people struggling gave a report regarding different bills that are being
and we do understand. Leonhardi believes it is important introduced.
to protect the reputation of the deputies. (a) An assembly member in LA County, who is chair
ix) CAO Rachel Parrott clarified the intent of the video and why of the public safety committee, presented a bill
it fits within the DSA objectives. The hypocrisy of local and that would require law enforcement recruits be at
statewide leaders will be addressed. least 25 years of age or have a bachelor’s degree.
x) Morabe suggested the DSA write an opinion editorial Law enforcement will need to show how this is
instead, and then asked how much money from membership going to hinder recruitment for the populations
dues is expected to do this. that are already the most difficult to recruit.
xi) Leonhardi advised that no money is being asked for the (b) Assembly member Holden wants to criminalize
video because it is already in the budget. officers who don’t intervene during a bad use-
Silver Star ⭑ February 2021 19You can also read
