Orange County locals are familiar with the six-pointed sheriff’s star emblazoned on the distinctive patrol cars of the OC Sheriff’s Department. Deputies are a steady presence in our neighborhoods, keeping watch over the community and assisting those in need. While the department’s fundamental duties are widely recognized, the full scope of their work—the time, effort, human connection, and dedication behind the scenes—often goes unnoticed. Recently, I sat down with Sheriff-Coroner Donald “Don” Barnes for a conversation that offered a closer look at both his approach to leadership and the wide-ranging responsibilities carried by the department.
Sheriff Barnes joined the Orange County Sheriff’s Department more than 36 years ago, steadily rising through the ranks, though he never initially aspired to lead the agency. His predecessor encouraged him to embrace the opportunity, recognizing his experience, knowledge, and distinguished leadership qualities. In November 2018, the county elected him, and in January 2019, Sheriff Barnes was officially sworn in as the Sheriff-Coroner of Orange County.
Throughout our conversation, Sheriff Barnes emphasized a few guiding principles: communal leadership, open communication, and humility. He described the department’s approach to developing leaders: “We give them the tools to do the job, train them to do the job, and trust them to do the job.” He explained how peer-to-peer communication helps keep the department grounded and connected, fostering genuine leadership that opens doors for others and instills confidence as they step forward.
To him, humility and communal leadership are collective efforts—built on listening, showing respect, and working for the good of the team rather than personal recognition. “When I speak,” the Sheriff stated, “the pool of ideas stops—so I listen. My job is to create an environment for others to succeed.” His appreciation for his staff was evident as he credited all who serve within the Orange County Sheriff’s Department and Office: “We’ve turned a corner—not because of me, but because of the people I’m privileged to work with every day.”
Sheriff Barnes’ devotion to developing his team and nurturing a culture of responsibility extends beyond internal leadership. That same dedication drives his efforts to enhance public safety. He is overseeing the development of a tactical training facility with a modular design for active-shooter, crisis, and multi-agency training. Once completed, the facility will be available not only to his team but also to regional partners and academy recruits—an investment in shared community safety.
He has also taken meaningful steps to modernize the Orange County Sheriff’s Department Jail, focusing on the mental and physical well-being of those in its care. Each year, the jail invests millions of dollars in treatment programs designed to help stabilize individuals living with mental illness or substance use disorders. As Sheriff Barnes explained with conviction, “If we’re going to be a mental health jail, we’re going to be the best mental health jail we can be.”
Additionally, recognizing the needs of community members who are often overlooked, the department launched the Six Points for Kids program to support children and teens throughout Orange County. Through partnerships with local charities and fundraising events, the program provides young people with resources and encouragement to thrive. Barnes also supports nonprofit organizations such as the Special Olympics and Laura’s House, both dedicated to promoting inclusion and safety within the community.
From my time with Sheriff Barnes, it is clear that his commitment to community-based policing, leadership development, and public health is both strong and continually evolving to meet the demands of today. While he continues to work diligently to improve the lives of Orange County residents, he shares a simple reminder: “Service is at the core of everything we do—in or out of uniform.”
“The outcome is what matters — safe communities, not popularity.”
“Everyone goes home — deputies and the public.”