Kern County Sheriff's Office

Our History

Formed in 1866, the Kern County Sheriff's Office is the oldest law enforcement agency in the county. The Sheriff is the county's chief law enforcement officer.

In addition to providing police services to the unincorporated portions of the county, the Sheriff has the responsibility for the jail system, providing bailiff and prisoner transportation service to the courts, search and rescue, coroner services, and civil process (serving lawsuit papers).

The Sheriff's Office has 1,202 sworn and civilian employees. There are 567 authorized deputy sheriff positions deployed in patrol, substations, detectives, courts services, and special investigations units. There are 338 detention deputy positions deployed in the detention facilities, and 297 Sheriff's professional support staff assigned throughout Kern County.

The Sheriff, who also serves as the Coroner, is an elected official. All other ranks are county employees and fall under civil service regulations.

Our Mission
The Kern County Sheriff's Office is committed to work in partnership with our community to enhance the safety, security, and quality of life for the residents and visitors of Kern County through professional public safety services.

Kern County Sheriff’s Office
1350 Norris Rd., Bakersfield CA
661-391-7500

For emergencies, dial 9-1-1
To request a deputy in a non-emergency situation, or to file a report, call 661-861-3110.
Out of area, call 1-800-861-3110
To receive up to the minute updates from the Kern County Sheriff’s Office by email and cell phone text KERNSHERIFF to 888-777 or go to www.nixle.com or www.kernsheriff.com