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Portrait of Rebecca Gomez, Legal Support Manager, smiling in front of a blue background, with a caption reading “Rebecca Gomez” and “Legal Support Manager” and a badge stating “Hispanic Heritage Month.”

Meet Legal Support Manager Rebecca Gomez

In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office is highlighting employees whose experiences, backgrounds and dedication to public service help strengthen our office and the communities we serve.

For Legal Support Manager Rebecca Gomez, a career with the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office is rooted in a commitment to helping others and a family history that is deeply connected to an important chapter in San Diego and civil rights history.

Born and raised in San Diego, Rebecca began her career with the County working in Child Support after previously working in healthcare for Sharp and Kaiser. She joined the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office in 2002 and has spent more than two decades helping support the work of the office.

Today, she serves as the Legal Support Manager at the South Bay Branch, where she oversees the daily operations of the Legal Support Staff.

For Rebecca, her role is about more than overseeing operations. One of the most rewarding parts of her work is helping employees develop their careers and seeing people she once interviewed and hired go on to become professionals within the office.

“I am proud and fulfilled knowing that I played a small part in their career journey and success,” she said.

Her connection to Hispanic Heritage Month is deeply personal. Her great-grandfather, Juan Gonzalez, was involved in the Lemon Grove Incident of 1931, a landmark San Diego County case in which Mexican American children had been separated from other students and sent to a separate school. The case resulted in a court ruling that prohibited the segregation of the Mexican American children.

Her grandmother and her siblings were among the children affected. Growing up, Rebecca heard stories from her grandmother about what happened and about her great-grandfather’s role in the legal fight.

That family history has given Hispanic Heritage Month a special meaning for Rebecca—one that goes beyond celebrating her heritage.

“It reminds me of the courage, strength and determination of the generations before me,” she said.

What inspired you to pursue a career in law enforcement or to work at the DA’s Office?

“I was transferred to the DA’s office from Child Support during a County Wide layoff. When I was given the opportunity to go back to Child Support I declined. I felt working at the DA’s office was much more fulfilling. The work we do impacts the entire community and it makes me feel good that I can be a small part of helping to keep our community safe.”

What is your favorite part of your job?

“My favorite part of my job is the leadership role I play in helping to develop and guide support staff towards promotions or other careers within our office. When I see student workers who I interviewed and hired go on to become professionals in our office, it makes me feel proud and fulfilled knowing that I played a small part in their career journey and success.”

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

“I love sports and being outdoors. In my spare time I enjoy going to the gym, hiking, camping, and Padres games.”

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you, and why is it important to you?

“Hispanic Heritage Month is meaningful to me because it reminds me of where I come from and the people in my family who helped make a difference for future generations. My great-grandfather, Juan Gonzalez, was part of the Lemon Grove Incident in 1931, when Mexican American children were being separated from the other children and sent to a separate classroom. The case is recognized as the first successful school desegregation court decision in U.S. history. My grandmother and her siblings were among the children affected. Growing up, my grandmother would tell me stories about what happened and about the role my great-grandfather played in fighting the segregation of the children. My great-grandfather served as guardian ad litem for Roberto Alvarez, one of the children at the center of the case, and the court ultimately ruled that the Mexican American children could not be segregated from the other students. Knowing that this history is part of my own family makes Hispanic Heritage Month mean much more to me than simply celebrating my heritage. It reminds me of the courage, strength, and determination of the generations before me. I am proud of my great-grandfather and of my grandmother and her siblings, who was part of a moment in history that helped create a better future for Mexican American children. It also reminds me that the opportunities we have today were not always available to everyone. People in my family stood up for what was right, and their actions made a difference. That history is something I am proud to carry with me, and it is why Hispanic Heritage Month is so important to me.

I am thankful for the opportunity the DA’s office has given me and I enjoy the people I work with.”

 

Headshot of Felix Salazar in a black jacket and white shirt, smiling against a light background; a lower-third label reads “Felix Salazar, Senior DA Investigator” and “Hispanic Heritage Month.”

Meet Senior DA Investigator Felix Salazar

In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office is highlighting employees whose experiences, backgrounds and dedication to public service help strengthen our office and the communities we serve.

For Senior District Attorney Investigator Felix Salazar, a career dedicated to serving others began in the Imperial Valley and continued through service in the United States Marine Corps and more than two decades in law enforcement.

Born and raised in Brawley, California, Investigator Salazar joined the Marine Corps in 1998, serving until 2002. He began his law enforcement career that same year, working for the Brawley Police Department and later the Carlsbad Police Department in a variety of assignments.

In 2018, he joined the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office. Today, he serves as a Senior District Attorney Investigator assigned to the East County Branch, where he conducts and assists with investigations involving cases prosecuted by the office.

His work includes locating and interviewing victims and witnesses, gathering and reviewing evidence, serving subpoenas, conducting follow-up investigations and working closely with Deputy District Attorneys and law enforcement partners to prepare cases for court.

For Senior Investigator Salazar, the work is ultimately about service.

What inspired you to pursue a career in law enforcement or to work at the DA’s Office?

“I have always been drawn to public service and to work that has a direct impact on people’s lives. My time in the Marine Corps reinforced the importance of teamwork, accountability, discipline and service to others. Law enforcement allowed me to continue that commitment while helping people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.

Joining the District Attorney’s Office allowed me to apply my experience to complex investigations and work closely with prosecutors and law enforcement partners. I value being part of a team that works to seek justice for victims, support their families and move cases forward.”

What is your favorite part of your job?

“My favorite part of the job is the people I work with and the sense of purpose that comes with the work. I enjoy being part of a team that works through challenging investigations and knowing that our efforts can make a meaningful difference for victims, their families and our community. I also appreciate working alongside dedicated team members who take pride in what they do and are committed to serving the public.”

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

“Family is very important to me, and I enjoy spending time with my wife and children. We especially enjoy traveling together, exploring new places and making memories as a family. In my spare time, I also enjoy watching boxing and other combat sports.”

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you, and why is it important to you?

“Hispanic Heritage Month is a time for me to reflect on where I come from and the sacrifices my family made to create opportunities for the next generation. As a first-generation American with family from Mexico, my heritage has shaped my values, especially the importance of family, hard work and serving others. I am proud of my background and hope my career shows that you can stay connected to where you come from while still creating new opportunities for yourself and others.

After more than two decades in law enforcement, I am still grateful for the opportunity to learn, grow and serve alongside great people. I am proud to be part of the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office and to contribute to a team committed to helping our community.”

 

Meet Deputy District Attorney Norma Flores

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 through October 15, we are highlighting stories from DA employees and what inspired them to pursue a career in public service. Meet Deputy District Attorney Norma Flores.

Norma began her career with the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office in 2015 as a receptionist in the East County Division. During her time as a support staff, she performed a variety of duties in the Misdemeanor Unit and eventually transitioned to the Felony unit, where she served as lead. In December of 2020, she made the difficult decision to leave a job that she truly loved to pursue her dream of becoming a prosecutor. During law school she returned to the office as an intern and a Graduate Law Clerk where she worked in several units including, Narcotics, Gangs, Family Protection, and Sex Crimes. In December of 2024, she achieved her goal and proudly rejoined the office as a Deputy District Attorney and is currently assigned to the East County Division.

When she’s not busy working as a prosecutor, Norma spends her free time with her two children. Read more about what inspired her to pursue a career in public service, below.

Why did you choose a career in public service/what inspired you to pursue this career?

“My career path was shaped by an early personal experience with the justice system as a juvenile. At that time, the San Diego County District Attorney’s office took my life circumstances into consideration and gave me an opportunity to change my life. This experience also sparked an interest in the law.

During my time as a Legal Support Assistant with the office, I was assigned to the arraignment and readiness department where I assisted prosecutors in court. Daily, I witnessed Deputy District Attorneys in the courtroom work diligently to protect victims, the community, and to ensure justice. This deeply inspired me and quickly realized that I wanted to devote my life to public service. I am grateful to now be doing so for the same office that never gave up on me.”

What is your favorite part of the job?

“What I love most about being a prosecutor is the ability to protect the community I grew up in, while also advocating for victims who need a voice.”

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you/why is it important?

“Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate our accomplishments and using them to inspire the next generation to achieve their dreams.”

Read more Hispanic Heritage Month stories from the DA’s Office, here.

Meet Supervising DA Investigator Osvaldo Cruz

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 through October 15, we are highlighting stories from DA employees and what inspired them to pursue a career in public service. Meet Supervising District Attorney Investigator Osvaldo Cruz.

Osvaldo has been with the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office for 10 years, and he recently celebrated 26 years in law enforcement. He currently serves as the Supervising District Attorney Investigator at the El Cajon Branch, where he supervises, leads, and supports our team of investigators to ensure they provide comprehensive investigative assistance to our Deputy District Attorneys. They also oversee security for the office, ensuring a safe and secure environment for our staff and the public we serve.

Outside of work, he shares both his life and his passion for public service with his wife, Stacie Cruz, who is also an investigator at our office. They are avid Padres fans (especially Stacie), and they both enjoy attending games, traveling when possible, and managing their small businesses. “We are proud to work together as partners in life, in law enforcement, and in business”, he said. “Staying active in both law enforcement and entrepreneurship keeps me energized and purpose driven.” Read more about what inspired Osvaldo to pursue a career in public service, below.

Why did you choose a career in public service/what inspired you to pursue this career?

“While my early professional path was focused on corporate business, including a role with Blockbuster as a regional ‘fixer’ for underperforming stores, I found myself increasingly drawn to law enforcement. My corporate role involved working closely with local law enforcement to combat theft, which sparked my interest. I began doing ride-alongs with Chula Vista Police Department and quickly felt a calling. In 1999, I began my law enforcement career as a correctional deputy with the San Diego Sheriff’s Department, and a year later accepted an offer to join Chula Vista Police, where I proudly served for over 15 years in a variety of investigative and leadership roles. My passion for business never left. I continue to own and operate several companies outside of work, but public service has remained my true calling.

Throughout my career, from patrol to specialized investigative units to now supervising a branch, I have always believed in building up others and creating teams that support one another. Whether I am working a case, developing a new business venture, or mentoring someone through a challenge, I stay committed to leading with integrity, compassion, and purpose.”

What is your favorite part of the job?

“Over the years, I’ve used a personal saying: ‘The cookie jar.’ Each time I make a meaningful impact on a victim or their family, I mentally file that moment away in my ‘cookie jar.’ When I’m facing a tough case or feeling discouraged, I reach into that jar and remind myself of the lives I’ve helped. That’s the best part of my job, knowing I’ve made a difference and carrying those moments with me as motivation to keep going. The cookie jar is full!”

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you/why is it important?

“Hispanic Heritage Month is meaningful to me because our culture contributes so deeply to our community that its presence is often woven seamlessly into the fabric of daily life here in San Diego. I was born in East Los Angeles and raised in a gang-heavy area of the San Fernando Valley. Thanks to my mother’s unwavering guidance and discipline, I avoided the gang lifestyle that consumed many of my childhood friends. Her strength shaped my path, and my goal has always been to make her proud by being a model citizen. As a first-generation Mexican-American, I believe it is important to show others that with hard work and integrity, nothing is impossible. I take pride in giving back, whether through law enforcement or mentorship in business, and hope to inspire others to aim higher. My personal motto is simple: when I leave, I just want to know I left a dent in the world and that it was a positive one.”

Read more Hispanic Heritage Month stories from the DA’s Office, here.

Meet Senior Human Resources Officer Desiree Gonzalez

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 through October 15, we are highlighting stories from DA employees and what inspired them to pursue a career in public service. Meet Senior Human Resources Officer Desiree Gonzalez.

Desiree has worked for the County for 24 years, of which 22 of those years have been at the DA’s office. She started off as a student worker and worked her way up to Senior Human Resources Officer for the Human Resource Management Unit. Her wide range of duties include position management, recruitment, transfers, human resources policies and procedures, Covid management, workplace accommodations, workers’ compensation, leave administration, benefits administration, employee relations, performance appraisals and appeals, discipline, and performance management.

When she’s not busy working, she spends her free time with her family and two little dogs, a Yorkiechon and a Pomapoo.  She also loves travelling because it gives her the opportunity to discover and appreciate different cultures. Read more about what inspired Desiree to pursue a career in public service, below.

Why did you choose a career in public service/what inspired you to pursue this career?

“My grandmother impressed upon me the importance of giving back to the community.  My mother had a career in public service as a public-school teacher for 32 years and my aunts and uncles also retired from careers in public service. They were excellent role models.  I could see how much happiness they derived from serving the public and that inspired me to follow that same path.”

What is your favorite part of the job?

“My favorite part of the job is being able to interact and engage with employees at all levels and being able to positively impact people’s careers. I also love the variation of the work; no two days look the same.”

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you/why is it important?

“It is a time for me to connect to my heritage and honor the accomplishments and contributions of Latinos to our community. I was raised to be proud of my heritage and celebrate our cultural holidays. It is important to recognize where you come from and encourage others to achieve their goals.”

Read more Hispanic Heritage Month stories from the DA’s Office, here.

Meet Deputy District Attorney Jerry Gonzales

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 through October 15, we are highlighting stories from DA employees and what inspired them to pursue a career in public service. Meet Deputy District Attorney Jerry Gonzales.

Jerry has been with the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office since May 2007, when he was a Legal Intern. He was sworn in as a Deputy District Attorney in 2009 and is currently assigned to the Gangs Prosecution Unit in our South Bay branch.

When he is not busy working, he enjoys going to the Xolos soccer games in Tijuana. Read more about what inspired Jerry to pursue a career as a prosecutor, below.

What inspired you to pursue a career at the DA’s Office/in law enforcement? 

“During my first internship, I saw the dedication and skill of the prosecutors and staff at the DA’s office. I was amazed by the work that the DA’s office does and saw how it had real impact on the victims and community. The sense of family I felt as an intern showed me that I was in the right place, and that I could take my education and training and use it to make the community a safer place.”

What is your favorite part of the job?

“I enjoy working with law enforcement, especially in the initial stages of building a case, to hold the guilty accountable for the crimes they have committed. I also enjoy volunteering in the community both in a legal capacity (Project LEAD, SUHI Mock Trial, USD Moot Court) and non-legal capacity (youth baseball and soccer, church groups).”

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you/why is it important?

“Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to recognize the sacrifices of previous generations that laid the groundwork so that I could take advantage of the opportunities that have been presented to me. It’s about reflecting on the efforts of the countless individuals who have gone before me to pave the way, and to make sure that we work to allow those same opportunities to hard working individuals that follow.”

Read more Hispanic Heritage Month stories from the DA’s Office, here.

Meet DA Investigator Yvette Gaines

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 through October 15, we are highlighting stories from DA employees and what inspired them to pursue a career in public service. Meet District Attorney Investigator Yvette Gaines.

Yvette has been with the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office since January 2023. Prior to the DA’s Office, she was with the San Diego Policed Department for 18 years. She is currently assigned as the sole investigator for the Workplace Justice Division, where she investigates criminal wage theft and labor trafficking cases.

When she is not busy working, she spends her free time with her husband and daughter, traveling, going to concerts and baseball games.

What inspired you to pursue a career at the DA’s Office/in law enforcement? 

“I am born and raised in San Diego. I come from a family of police officers. My father and two uncles were San Diego Police Officers. I was inspired by their dedication to public service, which strongly influenced my decision to pursue a career in law enforcement. My younger sister has since followed in our footsteps and is Deputy Sheriff with the San Diego Sheriff’s department.”

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you? Why is it important?

“Hispanic Heritage means being proud of where I come from and honoring the traditions and values passed down through my family. It recognizes the pride in my culture that emphasizes hard work, family, and tradition. For me, it is something that goes beyond the month it is celebrated. It is important to me because it connects me to my roots and inspires me to carry forward my traditions.”

What is a fun fact about you?

“Something unique about me is three of my grandparents are alive (my grandmother and grandfather on my father’s side and my grandmother on my mother’s side). They all grew up in Logan Heights and went to San Diego High School. They were very active in the community during that time and have amazing photos. There is a mural of my grandmother on my father’s side in Chicano Park. It reminds me of how deep my roots are here in San Diego and makes me proud.”

Read more Hispanic Heritage Month stories from the DA’s Office, here.

Hispanic Heritage: Meet Care Coordinator Lisbet Perez

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we are highlighting the stories of DA employees and what inspired them to pursue a career in public service. In this video you will meet One Safe Place Care Coordinator Lisbet Perez, whose personal journey lead her to dedicate her career to helping others who have gone through the same experiences as her.

You can read more Hispanic Heritage Month stories from the DA’s Office, here.

Hispanic Heritage: Meet Deputy DA Javier Vargas

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we are highlighting the stories of DA employees and what inspired them to pursue a career in public service. In this video you will meet Deputy District Attorney Javier Vargas, who has a long family history of public service.

You can read more Hispanic Heritage Month stories from the DA’s Office, here.

 

Meet Confidential Secretary Saul Vazquez

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 through October 15, we are highlighting stories from DA employees and what inspired them to pursue a career in public service. Meet Confidential Secretary Saul Vazquez.

Saul was born and raised in San Diego. He graduated from San Diego State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Management and minored in Spanish.

He has been working at the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office for more than 20 years. As a Confidential Secretary, he provides secretarial support to our Chief Deputy District Attorneys and to our District Attorney Executive Team.

During his spare time, Saul enjoys quiet time, fishing, and horseback riding.

What inspired you to pursue a career at the DA’s Office/in law enforcement?

“I came on board to the District Attorney’s Office as a ‘Temp’ working as a part of the DA Facility Team. I really didn’t know at the time when I started working with the office that I would make a long-term career out of it, 22 years later.  My mind set changed really quick though after being exposed to the great work our office does and the mission it stands for.”

What is your favorite part of the job?

“Knowing that the tremendous work we do day in, and day out is necessary to give voice and seek justice to those most vulnerable victims of crimes and to make our communities a better and safer place to live.”

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you? Why is it important?

“Hispanic Heritage Month is important to me because it allows for Hispanic communities to showcase their roots, share their rich cultural, traditions, and delicious foods to the diverse populations that make up our communities of which I am very proud of being part of.”