The Association of Orange County Deputy Sheriffs (AOCDS) was formed in 1976 and began representing our members in 1979.  Prior to that time, all County employees were represented by a single employee organization.  When we were formed, our salary and benefits were below almost every police department in the County, and amongst the lowest for large agencies in the state. Recruiting and retention of quality officers were significant issues for the county during those times. We consistently gained ground, and today have been among the leaders in the County.

We literally started working out of the trunk of the Association President’s car.  Then we moved up to his garage and later rented an office on Katella next to the Academy.  We’ve been in our current building since 1984. 

We represent our members very effectively in their employment relationship with the County and in the political arena here in Orange County.  We are also active in Sacramento and Washington, D.C., supporting and opposing issues and candidates that impact our members.

AOCDS is also recognized as a leader by other law enforcement organizations.  Members of our Board of Directors have held office in the International Union of Police Associations, California Coalition of Law Enforcement Associations, Southern California Alliance of Law Enforcement, Orange County Cops, California Peace Officers Memorial Foundation, Fraternal Order of Police and the Public Employees Staff Organization. 

Our staff and Area Representatives provide expert day-to-day representation to the members in the areas of officer safety, on-duty injuries, communications, grievances, discipline appeals and work problems.  Our Board of Directors and Negotiations Team Members devote many personal hours and extraordinary effort to ensuring the best possible salary and benefits. As a result, the County of Orange is able to recruit and retain the highest quality peace officers, thus allowing the communities and neighborhoods we serve to be among the safest in the nation. 

The members are also served by a wide range of outstanding support personnel.  Our attorneys, insurance brokers, CPA and other service providers are all the best of the best.

The Courier and frequent email and video updates keep the members informed about issues of importance.  The Courier, now electronic, provides a broad range of information to the members, including information from the Board and staff and Insurance providers.

The Board of Directors and Staff of AOCDS are proud to represent the finest Deputy Sheriffs and District Attorney Investigators in the United States, and will continue to provide the highest quality and effective representation to our members.