CountyofSB.org 
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are you currently testing and hiring?
A: Yes. We are actively recruitment for the Sheriff’s Deputy Trainee and Custody Deputy positions. These recruitments are conducted as ongoing recruitments. The PAT and written exam testing process is conducted throughout the year, approximately every 3-4 months. Recruitments for Professional Civilian Staff positions are recruited for based on the business need. For a listed of our Current Job Openings CLICK HERE.
Q: How can I submit an application?
A: Please visit Join SBSO – Apply Now for a list of our current job openings.
Q: What does the physical agility test include?
A: The physical agility test (PAT) is required for entry-level sworn positions. PAT modules vary based on the physical requirements of the job. More specific details are available at Physical Preparation.
Q: What does the Sheriff’s Deputy Trainee and Custody Deputy written examination include?
A: There are two types of written examinations available to applicants. First is the POST Entry Level Law Enforcement Battery (PELLETB) which is an in person written exam administered through our agency several times a year. To prepare for the PELLETB examination CLICK HERE to review the Applicant Preparation Guide for the PELLETB.
Secondly, National Testing Network NTN, which is a public safety online virtual examination. This exam can be taken conveniently online or at a test center. CLICK HERE to review their website and enrollment process.
Q: How long is the background investigation hiring process?
A: Most candidates complete the background investigation process in 2-3 months. The duration of the background process may vary on a case-by-case basis.
Q: Will I receive a salary and benefits while attending an Academy?
A: Yes. You start earning a salary upon your hire date; benefits will be effective at the beginning of the month that immediately follows the employee’s first pay period of employment in a regular position.
Q: How long is an Academy?
A. The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office currently sends recruits to several tri-county academies.
The Allan Hancock Basic Law Enforcement Academy is a 21- week (836 hour) intensive academy. CLICK HERE for frequently asked questions.
Ventura County Sheriff’s Department Training Academy conducts a 22-week California POST accredited program. CLICK HERE to review the website.
The Allan Hancock Core Custody Academy is a 6-week course of 176 hours of STC mandated training and approximately 40 hours of additional training. CLICK HERE frequently asked questions.
SBSO X Feed
Detectives have arrested a Los Angeles man for sexual abuse of care home patients. Read more here:
Sheriff’s Detectives Arrest Los Angeles Man for Sexual Abuse of Care Home Patients – Santa Barbara...
Proud to Protect and Serve Santa Barbara County The men and women of the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office ...
www.sbsheriff.org
Notice of in-custody death at hospital- read more here:
Notice of In-Custody Death at Hospital – Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office
Proud to Protect and Serve Santa Barbara County The men and women of the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office ...
www.sbsheriff.org
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🚔✨ Ever wondered what happens behind the badge?
The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office is now accepting applications for our Community Academy—a hands-on, behind-the-scenes look at law enforcement in Santa Barbara County!
👮♂️ What you’ll experience:
📜 History of law enforcement
⚖️ Criminal law & patrol tactics
🗣️ De-escalation communication
🧪 Forensic evidence collection
This program is perfect for community members who want to learn more about the Sheriff’s Office—or anyone considering a future in law enforcement. Get an inside look at what it truly takes to serve and protect our communities.
📅 Class Schedule:
🗓️ Begins Monday, March 2, 2026
⏰ Mondays from 6:00 – 8:30 p.m. through May 4, 2026
📍 Primarily at the Lompoc Substation, with some sessions in Santa Barbara and Santa Maria
🎉 Graduation BBQ/Luncheon: Saturday, May 9, 2026
⚠️ Space is limited and classes fill quickly!
📝 Apply by Monday, February 16, 2026
🔞 Must be 18 years or older
👉 Apply now at www.sbsheriff.org or email 📧 CommunityAcademy@sbsheriff.org with questions.
🚓 Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exciting and educational experience!
Congratulations to Acting Lieutenant Neil Gowing (center) on graduating from the Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute! 🎓👏 This achievement reflects months of intensive leadership training focused on ethical decision-making, effective supervision, accountability, and leading with integrity. We’re proud of Acting Lieutenant Gowing’s commitment to professional growth and thankful for the leadership he brings back to our agency and the community we serve. 💙🚓
Congratulations to the 12 members of the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office who were officially promoted today 👏⭐
This ceremony recognized dedicated professionals from across the organization, including three key additions to the executive leadership team:
Undersheriff Brad Welch
Chief Deputy Kevin Huddle
Custody Chief Deputy Ryan Sullivan
Each brings decades of experience spanning patrol, investigations, custody operations, and executive command—strengthening the leadership of our agency at every level.
Also honored were newly promoted commanders, lieutenants, sergeants, and professional staff, whose leadership and commitment support our mission every day.
“These promotions reflect the caliber of our people and the rigor of the process,” said Sheriff Bill Brown. “Those who advance have earned the confidence of this organization.”
As they step into their new roles, these leaders are charged with upholding the values behind the word SHERIFF:
Service • Honor • Ethics • Respect • Integrity • Fairness • Faithfulness ⭐
🔈Audio on for a BOL from our Communications Dispatch Center 🎅🏼👀
🚨 Public Service Announcement: Text to 911 🚨
📍 Santa Barbara County, including UCSB properties
Call if you can. Text if you can’t.📱Dispatchers are available and ready to help 👩💻👨💻
A voice call is still the fastest and most effective ☎️
Text to 911 is essential for people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech-impaired ♿
It is critical in dangerous situations where speaking out loud could put you at risk ⚠️
It can help during medical emergencies when you cannot speak 🏥
During major network disruptions, texts may go through even when calls fail 📶
📌 Tips for Using Text to 911:
Text your exact location so help can be sent quickly 📍
Use clear, plain language
Avoid emojis, slang, or abbreviations in your text
Send a one-on-one message. Group texts do not reach 911
Text to 911 is for emergencies only
📲 Text to 911- Help is just a message away.
☕👮♂️ Join us for Coffee with a Cop in Orcutt!
The Sheriff`s Office is teaming up with Gina’s Piece of Cake for a relaxed, no-agenda meet-up on Saturday, December 20, from 9–11 a.m. Swing by, grab a free cup of drip coffee, and chat with the deputies who serve your community — including Community Resource Deputy Shawn Banks.
These casual conversations help us stay connected, hear what matters to you, and build stronger relationships one cup at a time.
📍 Gina’s Piece of Cake — 205 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt
🕘 Saturday, Dec. 20 | 9–11 a.m.
🍵 Free drip coffee for attendees!
We hope to see you there! #CoffeeWithACop #Orcutt #SBSheriff
🎓✨ Congratulations to Community Academy Class 25-2!
Over the past several weeks, this incredible group learned about everything from investigations and patrol operations to custody, communications, and the many specialty units that keep our county safe. 🚓
Programs like this help build a stronger, more connected community by opening doors, answering questions, and creating partnerships that last long after graduation. 🤝💛
We’re grateful for your time, curiosity, and commitment to understanding how your Sheriff’s Office serves you.
👏🎉 Great job, Class 25-2!
Today we celebrated four new deputies upon their graduation from the Allan Hancock College Law Enforcement Academy! 🎓💛 Big congratulations to Deputies Durnin, Pursifer, Weber, and Woolley — and an extra round of applause for Deputy Woolley, who received the Leadership Award! 👏⭐
