Golden State Today

Santa Barbara, Calif – Deputy Sheriff Lizbett Hernandez of the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office received the Military Order of World Wars, Colonel George C. Woolsey Chapter 113 National Law and Order Outstanding Performance Award last Thursday. This award recognizes Deputy Hernandez for her service, dedication, and impact within the Sheriff's Office and the community.

Deputy Hernandez joined the Santa Barbara Sheriff’s Office in 2019. She is known for her actions, including saving an opioid overdose patient and a person choking in 2023, and her role in the quick identification and capture of a shooting suspect in 2024. As a Field Training Officer, Hernandez guides new deputies with empathy and leadership. She is part of the Sheriff’s Mounted Enforcement Unit, contributing to patrol, crowd control, and search and rescue during significant local events.

In a notable community-focused act, Deputy Hernandez and two colleagues organized a police-themed birthday party for a 7-year-old aspiring to a law enforcement career, earning appreciation from the girl’s family.

Beyond her law enforcement duties, Hernandez is a Sergeant in the Army National Guard with over ten years of service. She enlisted in 2010 and served in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom (2012-2013), participating in domestic responses to unrest and natural disasters. Her military awards include the Afghanistan Campaign Medal and Army Commendation Medal, among others. Stationed at Camp San Luis Obispo, she imparts discipline and service values from her military experience to the Sheriff's Office duties.

Sheriff Bill Brown praised Hernandez, stating, “Deputy Hernandez exemplifies the core principles of the Santa Barbara Sheriff’s Office through her unwavering work ethic, integrity, and compassion. Her ability to balance her roles as a deputy, mentor, and active National Guard member while making a positive impact on our community is truly remarkable. We are incredibly proud of her achievements and this well-deserved recognition.”

The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office congratulated Deputy Hernandez on her honor and expressed gratitude for her ongoing service.