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.