New additions for Monterey Sheriff’s Office

It was a full house as 26 men and women were sworn to serve the people of Monterey County.

“The challenges you face are great, but I believe the opportunities here at the Monterey County Sheriff’s office are even greater,” said Sheriff Bernal.

15 new deputies, 10 custody control specialists, and a commander who was promoted to captain all took the pledge.

The new deputies mean several who moved to the jail to cover a staffing shortage can go back on patrol.

“The jail is first priority for the Sheriff’s office. We have to man that jail. Between the different litigations going on, we need to make sure our staffing is there,” said Commander John Thornburg.

Sheriff Steve Bernal acknowledges that short staffing is the biggest challenge the department has had to face in 20-15. Bernal says things are now turning around, not only because of the additional staff but the way everyone stepped up to deal with a 5 million dollar deficit from January.

“We have now asked our enforcement operation deputies to do more with less. Believe me I know the frustrations you have out there,” said Commander John Thornburg.

Commander John Thornburg said hiring hasn’t been easy either with two main issues.

“Whether it’s the written test, the physical agility test, background test, psychological test, can they make it all the way though? The other problem is competition. We are all vying for the same candidates,” said Thornburg.