OC Sherriff’s Office honors member contributions

At an awards ceremony on May 5, The Orange County Sheriff’s Office honored the contributions of 25 members for their service in 2025.

Among the awards were the notable categories of Deputy of the Year, Corrections Officer of the Year, and the Roger G. Phillips Award.

The Deputy of the Year award was presented to Deputy John VandenDooren in recognition of his exemplary performance and commitment to public safety. According to the Sheriff’s Office, over the past year, Deputy VandenDooren has distinguished himself through proactive policing, a strong work ethic, and unwavering dedication to serving the residents of Orange County.

Officer Jason Pirela was honored as the Correction Officer of the Year for outstanding professionalism and commitment to maintaining the safety and security of the correctional facility. His approach promotes compliance, reduces tension, and contributes significantly to the facility’s overall stability and safety, the office said.

The prestigious Roger G. Phillips Award, which recognizes exceptional service and commitment to the mission and values of the Sheriff’s Office, was awarded to Captain Larry Cottone, a 35-year member of the Sheriff’s Office. This honor highlights an individual who embodies integrity, leadership, and a deep dedication to the Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff Paul Arteta commended all award recipients, stating, “You earned this moment. You represent the highest standards of this agency, and I am proud of every one of you. Whether you work in corrections, patrol, investigations, civil, or any of our specialized units, each one of you plays a vital role in keeping Orange County safe. The stories we highlight today, acts of bravery, lifesaving interventions, exceptional teamwork, and unwavering dedication are a reminder of the impact you make on real people, real families, and real lives.”