Operations Division

The Operations Division encompasses several specialized units dedicated to addressing quality-of-life concerns, community engagement, and enforcement throughout Santa Ana. These units include the Quality of Life Team (QOLT), Downtown Liaison Unit (DTLU), and AB 109 Team.

Quality Of Life Team (QOLT)

The QOLT focuses on homelessness-related issues, collaborating with city departments, county resources, and community partners to address unauthorized encampments, abandoned property, and the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness. Through the Homeless Evaluation Assessment Response Team (H.E.A.R.T.), the department provides immediate assistance, long-term solutions, and connections to services such as shelters, mental health support, and housing programs.

Proactive policing and engagement

Homelessness requires a multi-faceted approach involving faith-based organizations, nonprofit agencies, volunteers, and other stakeholders. Many individuals face challenges such as mental health issues, substance abuse, and physical limitations. While homelessness is not a crime, the needs of the community must be balanced with those of the homeless population, including the use of public spaces.

The Santa Ana Police Department strives to help individuals transition toward a better quality of life through a balanced approach of services, community support, and compassionate enforcement. Enforcement is coupled with alternatives, offering solutions to reduce negative interactions with law enforcement.

H.E.A.R.T. Program

The H.E.A.R.T. program serves individuals experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness by addressing immediate needs and long-term challenges. Officers trained in Crisis Intervention for Law Enforcement work with public, private, and nonprofit organizations to provide services that promote self-sufficiency, housing, and stability.

Coordinated Entry and Family Reunification

Through Coordinated Entry, individuals are connected to resources such as emergency shelter, transitional housing, and permanent supportive housing based on their vulnerability and needs. The Family Reunification Program helps homeless individuals reconnect with family or friends nationwide, with funding support from private donations.

Maintenance and Enforcement

QOLT collaborates with city agencies and contractors to address abandoned property, maintain public spaces, and enforce ordinances regarding camping and storage of belongings. Surveillance cameras in the Civic Center area aid in monitoring and deterring criminal activity.

Psychological Emergency Response Team (P.E.R.T.)

In partnership with the Orange County Health Care Agency (O.C.H.C.A.), the P.E.R.T. program pairs mental health clinicians with officers to assist individuals with mental health or substance abuse issues. This collaboration ensures access to behavioral health services and reduces repeated negative interactions with law enforcement.

Directed Patrol

The Directed Patrol Unit addresses quality-of-life issues unrelated to homelessness, such as street-level narcotics complaints and neighborhood nuisances, focusing on maintaining community safety and security.

Downtown Liaison Unit (DTLU)

Santa Ana’s downtown area has evolved into a vibrant hub of business, entertainment, and residential developments. The DTLU collaborates with downtown businesses to create a safe and welcoming environment for residents and visitors while addressing any public safety concerns.

AB 109 Team

The AB 109 Team oversees individuals released under the California Public Safety Realignment Act of 2011. Comprising members from the Santa Ana Police Department, Orange County Probation, and the Orange County District Attorney’s Office, the team ensures that offenders comply with probation requirements and successfully reintegrate into the community.