Monterey County Sheriff Mike Kanalakis takes great pride and pleasure in announcing the selection of Deputy Steve Bernal as the 2007 Deputy of the Year for the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office. Sheriff Kanalakis noted that this was a very difficult decision as there were many well deserving deputies nominated.

Deputy Bernal an eight-year veteran of the Sheriff’s Office is currently assigned to the Enforcement Bureau in the South County Station in King City.

Deputy Bernal was selected for this distinguished award for his very proactive efforts in two extraordinarily difficult cases. One of the cases was an embezzlement investigation and the second a child sexual exploitation case.

Both of these investigations confirmed Deputy Bernal’s willingness to go above and beyond his normal duties as a deputy sheriff assigned to patrol. In both instances, he took extremely difficult cases and worked them to their successful conclusion and prosecution. His efforts and perseverance are indicative of his desire and dedication to protect the citizen’s of Monterey County.

A life long resident of Monterey County, Deputy Bernal is married and the father of three children. He is a “people person” with impeccable moral character. His positive attitude towards helping others is evident by the fact that he is very active in his community even when off duty.

An accomplished singer and guitar player, he recently stared in the leading role of King City stage production of Guys and Dolls produced by the Stage Hands Theater Group. He is a member of the Nashville Song Writers International and often performs as a solo singer at numerous community functions.

Deputy Bernal is well respected by the citizen’s of South Monterey County. He has received several written letters of commendation from members of the local community for his efforts at a community project in the Pine Canyon Area and a local community fundraiser for local cancer patient.

Deputy Bernal is to be congratulated as the recipient of this most deserving honor. In recognition of his award, Deputy Bernal will receive a personalized Deputy of the Year badge that he will be entitled to wear throughout 2008. He also receives a $500.00 cash award from the Sheriff’s Advisory Council.