South OC Times

SANTA ANA, Ca. (May 2, 2024) – The Orange County Sheriff’s Department has made a significant announcement regarding the establishment of a new division aimed at enhancing emergency communications, patrol operations, and counter-terrorism efforts within the department.

Commander Charlie Walters has been appointed to lead the newly created Operations Support and Intelligence Division, which will oversee key bureaus such as the Emergency Communications Bureau, Counter-Terrorism Bureau, and Real-Time Operations Center.

Orange County Sheriff-Coroner, Don Barnes, highlighted the importance of centralizing these teams, stating, "With an emphasis on providing real-time support to operations and bolstering our proactive approach to counter-terrorism efforts, there was a need to centralize these teams."

The Emergency Communications Bureau, which encompasses OC Sheriff Dispatch and Control One, serves as a vital hub for coordinating responses across various agencies including law enforcement, fire, public works, and lifeguard services.

The Counter-Terrorism Bureau consists of the Orange County Intelligence Assessment Center (OCIAC) and the Orange County Joint Terrorism Task Force (OC JTTF). OCIAC collaborates with multiple entities to detect and prevent criminal activity, ensuring the safety of Orange County residents. Similarly, OC JTTF works in partnership with federal, state, and local agencies to mitigate potential terrorist threats in the region.

In addition, the newly established Real-Time Operations Center is set to leverage advanced technology and data resources to support law enforcement in responding to ongoing or recent criminal incidents.

Commander Walters, expressing pride in the division's dedication, emphasized the crucial but often unseen nature of their work, stating, "A lot of the work by personnel in this division is not something our community sees, but it is a critical component to their safety."

The Operations Support and Intelligence Division became operational on Friday, April 19, marking a significant step forward in enhancing law enforcement services and ensuring the safety of the community.