The San Diego County Sheriff's Department LGBTQ+ Advisory Council was created in 2013. The LGBTQ+ Advisory Council is a voluntary appointed group of community leaders, organizers, activists, and advocates from LGBTQ+ communities. The LGBTQ+ Advisory Council was created to work with the department on issues of concern, and to share insights and recommendations that could impact relationships between the Sheriff's Department and the community. LGBTQ+ Advisory Council members meet with the Sheriff and his staff to discuss department policies and procedures as well as ways to enhance the department's efforts to improve its services to the County of San Diego, specifically its LGBTQ+ community members. The Advisory Council members are also expected to engage the broader community of local networks, community members, and stakeholders with the information shared by the Sheriff's Department and expand the community's understanding of the policies and procedures of the department.

Mission Statement

The San Diego Sheriff LGBTQ+ Advisory Council's mission is to identify and bring issues of concern from individuals and organizations within the LGBTQ+ communities to the attention of the Sheriff and department staff for preemptive and collaborative resolution. 

Areas of Focus

• Improve public safety for the LGBTQ+ community
• Maintain open communication that builds trust between our communities and the Sheriff's Department
• Meets as needed with the Sheriff or Sheriff personnel on time-sensitive matters of interest to the LGBTQ+ communities
• Provides input, feedback, and guidance to Sheriff on matters of interest to the LGBTQ+ communities
• Promote and encourage deputy training about cultural competencies while expanding the community’s understanding of the policies and procedures of the Sheriff's Department
• Provides representation at meetings and events as requested by the Sheriff

1. Abrams, Bruce
2. Atkinson, Jacquelyn
3. Bedrosian, Ryan
4. Brown, Rickie
5. Dickerson, Thomas
6. Disposti, Max
7. Jester, Susan (Vice Chair)
8. King, Jelecia Nicole
9. Koeshall, Rev. Dan
10. Legaspi, Julia
11. Murray-Ramirez, Nicole
12. Phillips, Mike
13. Ramos, Carolina Alcoser
14. Rowland, Joyce
15. Williams, Darnelle (Chair)

Meet the Sheriff's LGBTQ+ Liaison:
Sergeant Marilú Marcq 

"I have been with the Sheriff's Department for 28 years and currently hold the rank of Sergeant. Being the LGBTQ+ Liaison for the past four years has been an incredible journey. I have met amazing people within the community who have provided the Sheriff's Department with many opportunities to build bridges and better understanding of the community's needs. I enjoy, and look forward to, providing the community needed support with the goal of having better communication and a positive impact on those we serve."