Tag Archive for: Hispanic Heritage Month

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.”

Group Program Manager Janet Ruiz

Meet Group Program Manager Janet Ruiz

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 Group Program Manager Janet Ruiz.

Janet was born in South El Monte, CA (Los Angeles County). She studied English Literature for her undergraduate studies at University of California, Los Angeles and then obtained a Master of Science in Criminal Justice at California State University Long Beach.

As a Group Program Manager for the San Diego County District Attorney’s (SDCDA) Administrative Services Department, she oversees and works with a team of brilliant analysts within our newly formed Program Administration Unit. This team oversees the administrative functions, including performance and compliance, of over 100 contracts annually. The team works across initiatives to support and advocate for the needs of each Division and support the coordination, development, and implementation of services and receipt of goods. Routinely, the team works collaboratively with other county departments, such as County Counsel, Public Safety Group departments, Purchasing and Contracting, Auditor & Controller, and more. Nested under this team are the DA’s Family Justice Centers, the Juvenile Diversion Initiative, the California County Resentencing Pilot Program Contract, and the Community Grant Program. The team’s work is reciprocally connected to our Grants, Budget, and Fiscal units within the Administrative Services Department; the Program Administration Unit is only one piece of the pie.

A fun fact about Janet, is that she recently completed the Disney Halloween Half Marathon!

“I loathe running, but I enjoy a new challenge,” she said. “In fact, my two little ones also participated! My girls ran the Kid Races and earned their own medals while my husband cheered us on! As a mama of two little ones, I hope to have more time for other hobbies one day!”

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

“My dad was robbed at gunpoint when I was in my teens, and I recall the fear he lived in for years after that. He had frequent nightmares where he would often wake shouting. In my adolescence, it enraged me that someone could do this and never face any consequences. Unfortunately, and fortunately, this was a pivotal moment for me. My goal then, and through my twenties, was to become a Special Agent for the FBI, but after numerous injuries during training this failure propelled me in a new direction. While in Los Angeles, I began my career providing direct crisis services and advocacy for system-impacted families, and quickly became involved in program design and implementation, including monitoring and evaluation of programs. In 2017, I moved to San Diego to work in the human trafficking prevention space where I co-authored a human trafficking prevention curriculum for middle and high school age youth alongside SDCDA. It was through this work that I recognized the alignment of SDCDA’s values and my own and decided to pursue a career here with the DA in 2022.”

What is your favorite part of the job?

“In working for the nonprofit sector for over a decade, I became very familiar with the administrative functions, and organizational needs and limited resources. Local government is entirely different, to say the least. I share this because of my love for learning and there is certainly nothing mundane about what I do. But to add to that I can confidently, and sincerely, say that I have always felt that both my work and perspective are valued here – and that continues to drive me. It may sound trivial, but loving the team you are a part of and feeling valued is of utmost importance to me; it is only then where you don’t lose sight of the bigger picture – and for me that’s to continue centering historically excluded and undervalued communities through my work.”

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

“It is a time to sit in gratitude and appreciate the vibrant cultures that add so much depth and color to this world. It is a time to reflect on the many accomplishments and contributions of Latinos in this country. We’ve been foundational to its growth and prosperity and are often overlooked. Our role in the fight for Civil Rights – from labor (farm workers’ rights, mine workers’ rights) to education (Mendez v. Westminster, Plyler v. Doe) – is not well known. Currently where books that emphasize diversity are banned and Latinos are vilified for existing and, for some, for immigrating to this country, it is even more important to chronicle and elevate the stories of our people and ensure Latinos are integrated in literature and history beyond this month. As Ms. Mendez shared, ‘[…] we are all individuals; […] we are all human beings; […] we all have the same rights, the same freedom.’”

DA Investigator Marcus Macias.

Meet DA Investigator Marcus Macias

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 DA Investigator Marcus Macias.

Marcus was born and raised in National City. He graduated from Southwestern College Police Academy in December 1998. Since September 2019, he has worked with the Gang Prosecution Unit and is currently assigned to Juvenile gangs.  He also works with the San Diego Police Department on a gang prevention program.

During his spare time, he enjoys hanging out with his wife and daughters.

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

“Like most young high school students, I was lost, looking for my calling. I saw a classmate in a National City Police Explorer uniform, and it intrigued me. The thought of helping people, policing, and protecting people I genuinely cared about was a true calling. I joined NCPD Explorer program in June of 1996 and eventually became a cop there.”

What is your favorite part of the job?

“My favorite part of the job is the preventative efforts our office takes. Talking with young people, helping them navigate life and redirect their energy to making positive choices is my favorite part of the job.” 

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

“As a mixed-race Latino, I embrace the heritage I was given (no one gets to pick their heritage). Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to highlight the many similarities Latinos have with all walks of life, such as culture, food, and family. It’s a time to reflect on the contributions of so many but also focus on the bright future of everyone.”