While conducting an Embezzlement Investigation, Deputy Bernal was able to identify
five suspects, obtain confessions, and locate evidence through a Search Warrant, which lead to the identity of the “ring leader” in this case. Without his commitment to a thorough investigation, all suspects in this case would not have been identified.” Deputy Steve Bernal brings great credit upon himself and the Monterey County Sheriff's Office.

Steve Bernal

Deputy Bryan Clester is recognized for his actions during Operation Valley Star. Operation Valley Star was a several month operation, which culminated on June 27, 2007. His efforts on behalf of our office, resulted in the arrest and subsequent Federal trials, numerous criminals many of whom were gang members. Deputy Clester was pulled from his normal assignment and assigned to work with the FBI in conducting surveillances for this operation. During the months of Operations Valley Star, Deputy Clester made himself available at all hours and at a moments notice in support of this operation. Deputy Clester’s schedule was constantly altered and he spent many hours doing surveillance that often kept him away from his family. Deputy Clester and his family have brought great credit to the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office.

Bryan Clester
 

Deputy Brian Baugh - July 2007

On July 7, 2007, while off duty and driving in the San Miguel area, Deputy Brian Baugh observed a California Highway Patrol Officer having difficulty with a stopped subject. Deputy Baugh pulled his vehicle over and identified himself as a Monterey County Sheriff Deputy. Deputy Baugh then assisted the California Highway Patrol Officer in taking into custody a felon who actively resisted both Deputy Baugh and the California Highway Patrol Officer resulting in personal injury to Deputy Baugh. Deputy Baugh actions bring great credit to himself and the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office.

Brian Baugh
 

A threat was phoned to the San Antonio School “All the kindergartners will be killed in one hour”. The Virginia Tech Massacre had just occurred and the employees at the school were in extreme fear for their students. As the deputies were responding, the school was placed on lockdown. Upon arrival he and his fellow deputies ensured the safety of the students. Deputy Stiarwalt had a phone trap in place due to previous threats. He was able to track down the suspect, obtained a warrant for her arrest and took her into custody. Deputy Stiarwalt’s swift and thorough investigation brought relief from stress for the staff and students at the school. The principal had high words of praise regarding deputy Stiarwalt’s handling of the case. His hard work and quick resolution of the case reflected well upon himself and the Sheriff’s Office.

Jeff Stiarwalt
 

Presented to Deputy Kris Knott for his hard work and dedication in turning a run-down, neglected King City Range into a functional training area to be proud of. After his selection as a Department Range Master, he was tasked with the job of cleaning up and updating the Range. Deputy Knott has displayed a high level of resourcefulness to achieve this despite not having a budget to do so. Thank you Kris for making this a better place to work!

Kris Knott
 

On January 11, 2007 while making the medical rounds with the physician assistant, Deputy Jimenez brought to her attention and inmate who was in the Detox Cell with deteriorating health. Using his keen observation skills he noticed the inmate's speech had changed from an earlier contact and requested an examination immediately. The inmate who suffered a stroke was transported to Natividad Medical Center. Medical Staff cited Deputy Jimenez for his efforts and credited him for coming to the inmates rescue.

Alfredo Jimenez
 

After reviewing a report completed by one of our deputies, you noted similarities to a case handled by Salinas PD. Through your own initiative; you investigated the matter further, which led to the identity of the suspect in the Sheriffs Office case. Without your dedication and commitment, this case may have gone unsolved. “Outstanding Work”.

  Melissa Arredondo
 

Elvia Arellano has been employed with our office for 26 years. She has served in many capacities over the years, all with dedication to doing a great job while looking out for our valued employees. Since 1999, she has been assigned to one of the most difficult positions around, that being in charge of Worker's Compensation claims. She tirelessly works behind the scenes to make sure our employees are treated fairly and get the benefits they deserve. She has never sought anything for herself, but is first in line to recognize the accomplishments of others.

Elvia Arellano

On January 29, 2007 at 2050 hours, FTO George Jones received a call of a man down in B-Dorm. He found an inmate had stopped breathing and called for the Jail Medical Staff to respond. Prior to their arrival, FTO Jones began mouth-to-mouth breathing for the critically ill inmate. Even while five to seven other inmates were surrounding him in the open dorm, FTO Jones continued his lifesaving effort. Paramedics cited FTO Jones for his efforts and credited him for saving the inmate's life.

FTO George Jones