Payam Javan: After a distinguished career in law enforcement and a brief retirement, Michael Doty has returned to the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office, accepting the role of Undersheriff following the retirement of Dalia Rodriguez in late December. His return underscores a renewed commitment to public service and a shared vision for the future of the agency alongside Sheriff Robert Jonsen.
Doty first joined the Sheriff’s Office in 1994 and has since served in leadership positions across every major division. He concluded his initial tenure in 2023, retiring as Assistant Sheriff after nearly three decades of service. Throughout his career, Doty has played a pivotal role in mentoring and training personnel—many of whom now hold leadership positions within the organization.
His legacy also includes significant contributions to law enforcement training. Doty helped lead the development of key initiatives such as the Justice Training Center, the Richey Training Center, and the Emergency Vehicle Operations Center. These programs continue to serve as foundational pillars of modern law enforcement training in Santa Clara County.
In his new role as Undersheriff, Doty is focused on creating an environment where staff can perform at their best while upholding the high standards expected by the community.
“My primary responsibility is to ensure our daily operations reflect the values of our agency,” Doty said. “That means balancing the evolving needs of our community, providing humane care for those in custody, and supporting our staff so they can serve with compassion and professionalism.”
Doty’s leadership philosophy centers on the belief that people are the organization’s greatest asset and time its most valuable resource. He emphasizes that how leaders choose to spend their time directly shapes outcomes—a principle guiding his commitment to accessibility, fairness, and collaboration.
Looking ahead, Doty envisions a Sheriff’s Office that embraces innovation, teamwork, and adaptability in response to changing public safety challenges. He has expressed confidence in the talent across the organization and encourages staff to contribute ideas that enhance efficiency and strengthen public trust.
“We must remain adaptable and work together to shape the future of this office,” he said.
For residents of Santa Clara County, Doty’s return represents both continuity and progress. His focus on transparency, training, and strong partnerships reflects a broader commitment to public safety rooted in collaboration and trust.
“Public safety is a shared mission,” Doty added. “We will continue to work hand-in-hand with the community to strengthen relationships, improve understanding, and develop solutions that reflect community needs.”
Doty’s return marks more than a new title—it represents a renewed dedication to those who serve and the communities they protect, positioning the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office to meet today’s challenges while building trust for the future.
