Orange County sheriff credits partnerships, training and technology for 43% drop in crime since 2018

Orange County Sheriff John Mina said that crime in Orange County has fallen by more than 43% since 2018 and credited that decline to patrol work, technology and community engagement. "One of the best things we've done at the Orange County Sheriff's Office is community engagement," Mina said, adding that cameras, license‑plate readers and bystander videos also help detectives build cases.

Mina, speaking on The Domino Effect with host Charlene Stanford Green, said deputies handle a wide range of calls, from domestic violence and disturbances to mental‑health crises. "A lot of times we need help," he said, describing routine referrals to partners such as Harbor House and the Department of Children and Families for shelter, pet accommodations and injunction assistance.

He described the county’s call workflow: call takers gather information and either transfer callers to partner agencies or send a deputy who can connect residents to services on scene. Mina emphasized that some people in crisis decline services, which complicates long‑term resolution. "Those are the incidents that cause us the most issues and struggles," he said.

Mina also highlighted prevention work: neighborhood watches, expanded training for deputies and school resource officers, and efforts to reduce overdoses through public awareness and Narcan availability. He urged residents to report suspicious activity, noting Orange County spans about 1,000 square miles and nearly 1.6 million residents, making targeted tips important for resource allocation.

The interview closed with Mina inviting community groups and businesses to propose partnerships through the sheriff's website or social media. "If you think there's a way that you can help this community, and partner with the sheriff's office, we are more than happy to listen," he said.

The program did not include formal votes or policy enactments; Mina described existing programs, enforcement practices and outreach plans and did not announce new legislation or ordinance changes.