In a recent government meeting, San Bernardino County Sheriff addressed the pressing issues of public safety and proactive policing, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in crime prevention. The Sheriff posed critical questions to the audience, urging individuals to take an active role in their lives and communities, while also highlighting the consequences of inaction, which could lead to incarceration as a last resort for those unwilling to seek help.

The Sheriff reflected on the challenges faced by law enforcement, noting that there have been 69 officer-involved shootings since he took office, resulting in injuries to several deputies, some of whom have had to retire. He expressed gratitude for the support received from the community and local government, which has equipped officers with necessary tools to combat crime effectively.

A significant focus of the discussion was on the recovery of ghost guns, with the Sheriff reporting that San Bernardino County ranks second in California, behind Los Angeles, for the number of these firearms seized. He pointed out that the county has only 300 fewer gun recoveries than Los Angeles, despite having a much smaller population, underscoring the effectiveness of their proactive policing strategies.

The Sheriff defended proactive policing against politicization, asserting that it is essential for the safety of both officers and the public. He committed to supporting these initiatives and countered any attempts to frame them as racially motivated, citing data that supports the effectiveness of their approach. The meeting concluded with a call for continued collaboration to enhance public safety and protect community investments.