Los Santos County Sheriff’s Office Receives Budget Increase for Special Operations Group

WEST VINEWOOD, SA — The Los Santos County Board of Supervisors has approved a significant budget increase for the Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Group (SOG).

The Special Operations Group is commanded by Captain Marty Spencer and encompasses multiple specialized units, including the Special Emergency Response Team (SERT), Mental Evaluation Unit, Crisis Response Support Section, Threat Management Unit, K-9 Section, Air Support Division, Emergency Services Unit, Training Unit, and related maritime, dive, and off-road response teams.

A key component of SOG is the Mental Evaluation Unit (MEU). Modeled on proven approaches used by major departments, the MEU supports deputies responding to individuals experiencing mental health crises. Its work emphasizes de-escalation, on-scene assessment, and connection to appropriate treatment and community services, with the goal of reducing the risk of violence and improving outcomes for both the public and first responders.

Within the MEU, the Case Assessment Management Program provides proactive, long-term follow-up for individuals who frequently come into contact with emergency services or who may be at elevated risk. By pairing Sheriff’s personnel with mental health professionals, the program develops individualized strategies aimed at linking people to sustained care, reducing repeated crisis calls, and preventing unnecessary escalation.

Lieutenant Troy Conrad, Commanding Officer of the Crisis Response Support Section, which houses the Mental Evaluation Unit, stated:

“Having the MEU available as a specialized resource has a measurable impact. It helps reduce use-of-force incidents involving emotionally distressed persons and lowers the likelihood of the most serious outcomes, including deputy-involved shootings. This funding will strengthen that capability.”

Major Gary Newman of the Office of Support Services also issued the following statement on behalf of Sheriff Charles G. Woodfork:

“This additional funding, approved by the County Board of Supervisors, will strengthen the capabilities of our Special Operations Group. It represents a meaningful investment in public safety and in the deputies who serve our communities every day.”

The Sheriff’s Office will apply the increased funding toward improving operational effectiveness throughout the Special Operations Group.