In this episode of Lo and Order, SEBA Executive Director Lolita Harper sits down with renowned labor and defense attorney Michael Schwartz—one of the most respected legal advocates for law enforcement officers across California. Together, they dive deep into due process, legal misconceptions, and the challenges peace officers face in today’s rapidly shifting media landscape.

Schwartz reflects on his early days as a public defender, what led him to defend law enforcement, and how his unwavering commitment to the Constitution drives his work. They also unpack the rise of politically motivated prosecutions, the dangers of rushed statements, and why having the right legal representation can make all the difference when a split-second decision is scrutinized for years to come.

From officer-involved shootings to public perception, this is an unfiltered look at the legal system through the eyes of one of its fiercest defenders.

To learn more about Michael Schwartz, visit: https://www.themichaelschwartzfirm.com/criminal-law/

Topics Covered:

02:30 – From Defender to Defender Schwartz shares his journey from public defender to representing law enforcement.

06:15 – Due Process and Why It Matters He breaks down the difference between defending the guilty vs. the innocent and the importance of forcing the government to prove its case.

11:40 – Today’s Law Enforcement Discussion about media bias, social narratives, and the shift in public trust toward officers.

18:05 – The Realities of Use of Force Schwartz explains the legal and practical differences in use-of-force encounters for officers.

24:00 – The Power of Perception and Misconception A conversation on non-compliance, misinformation, and the expectation that all force can be de-escalated.

31:10 – Legal Advice and Representation Why officers must have representation immediately after a critical incident—and what not to do.

38:25 – Public Safety Statements and Legal Risk Schwartz warns against rushed or informal statements and shares real-world examples where they backfired.

45:00 – DOJ Investigations and Lack of Experience The challenges of newer DOJ protocols and the risk of being scrutinized by inexperienced investigators.

52:00 – The Cost of Not Calling A case where an officer wisely withheld a statement—resulting in acquittal and a new career path.

56:30 – Trust Your Attorney Final advice to law enforcement: representation isn’t a threat—it’s protection.

59:00 – Closing Reflections Lolita Harper and Schwartz discuss the future of the profession and why SEBA exists.

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Learn more about the Sheriff's Employees' Benefit Association (SEBA): https://www.seba.com/

SEBA is the Sheriff's Employees' Benefit Association proudly representing 4,000+ public safety officers in San Bernardino County since 1946.

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In this episode of Lo and Order, SEBA Executive Director Lolita Harper sits down with Riverside County Sheriff—and now California gubernatorial candidate—Chad Bianco for a wide-ranging and deeply personal conversation.

From his early days in undercover narcotics to leading one of California’s largest sheriff’s departments, Bianco shares why he’s trading in a “perfect job” to run for governor. With honesty, grit, and candor, he opens up about leadership, government accountability, and the cost of political apathy—both personal and statewide.

Together, they explore California’s growing exodus, the waste behind the state’s homelessness crisis, and what real reform would look like in Sacramento—from repealing SB 54 to eliminating the state income tax.

Whether you agree with him or not, one thing’s certain: Bianco isn’t in this for the title—he’s in it for the people.

To learn more about the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office, visit: riversidesheriff.org

To learn more about Sheriff Bianco’s gubernatorial campaign, visit: biancoforgovernor.com

Topics Covered:

05:00 – From Sheriff to Candidate Bianco reflects on his career, core values, and why he’s stepping up to run for governor.

14:30 – Accountability in Law Enforcement and Politics How internal affairs shaped his leadership style—and why Sacramento lacks that same accountability.

25:15 – California’s Exodus and Economic Crisis A candid look at rising costs, broken infrastructure, and his bold plan to eliminate the state income tax.

35:50 – Tackling Homelessness and Government Waste Why $24 billion later, the system is worse—and how to fix it with transparency and enforcement.

49:00 – The Role of Leadership Bianco’s philosophy on leading people, not just departments—and what Sacramento needs now.

1:02:00 – Repealing SB 54 and Protecting Communities Why sanctuary policies backfire, and how immigration reform could be both humane and effective.

1:15:00 – Campaigns, Smear Tactics, and Staying Grounded Bianco addresses misinformation, attack ads, and staying true to his values in the spotlight.

1:27:00 – Passion, Grief, and the Law Enforcement Memorial An emotional reflection on leadership during tragedy—and why that moment changed him forever.

1:41:00 – A Message to Voters His final appeal: Why character still matters, and how he hopes to serve all Californians, not just a party.

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Learn more about the Sheriff's Employees' Benefit Association (SEBA): https://www.seba.com/

SEBA is the Sheriff's Employees' Benefit Association proudly representing 4,000+ public safety officers in San Bernardino County since 1946

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In this episode of Lo and Order, SEBA Executive Director Lolita Harper sits down with San Bernardino Police Chief Darren Goodman to unpack the heated debate surrounding education mandates in law enforcement.

From his unique journey through USC, Harvard, and beyond, Chief Goodman shares why a college degree shouldn’t be the golden ticket into policing—and how Sacramento’s top-down policies are missing the mark.

Together, they explore the real-world consequences of a "one-size-fits-all" academic requirement, the dangers of legislating from flawed premises, and how removing life experience from the badge equation could cost communities far more than politicians realize.

Learn More about the San Bernardino Police Department: https://www.sbcity.org/412/Police-Department

Follow Police Chief Darren Goodman: https://x.com/SBPD_CHIEF

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Topics Covered:

07:45 – Education vs. Experience in Policing Why checking the "degree box" isn’t a silver bullet—and how real-world experience often matters more.

11:40 – Sacramento’s Modern Policing Bill A deep dive into the legislation’s origins, its flawed premise post-George Floyd, and the political virtue-signaling behind it.

18:20 – The Problem with One-Size-Fits-All Mandates How requiring a degree could devastate recruitment, especially in underserved communities.

23:50 – Diversity Beyond Skin Color Why life experience, military service, and cultural familiarity matter more than classroom credentials.

28:30 – What Makes a Great Cop Chief Goodman’s must-haves: heart, grit, public service commitment—and why a degree can’t teach those.

33:00 – Political Disconnect in Sacramento How state leaders are legislating in a vacuum, ignoring the people who actually keep streets safe.

38:40 – The Real Cost of Virtue Signaling Personal stories from San Bernardino: what the community loses when good candidates are locked out by mandates.

46:10 – Recruitment, Retention, and California's Exodus Why even military vets and seasoned professionals are leaving the profession—or the state altogether.

52:00 – Human Trafficking Hypocrisy & Misguided Reforms A brutal look at how legislation aimed at "equity" is inadvertently enabling exploitation.

57:30 – Public Involvement and Civic Action Chief Goodman’s call to action: how everyday citizens can stop reckless policymaking before it’s too late.

1:02:00 – Closing Thoughts Why heart will always beat a diploma—and the danger of punishing police instead of empowering them.

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Learn more about the Sheriff's Employees' Benefit Association (SEBA): https://www.seba.com/

SEBA is the Sheriff's Employees' Benefit Association proudly representing 4,000+ public safety officers in San Bernardino County since 1946

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In this powerful discussion, San Bernardino County District Attorney Jason Anderson sits down with SEBA Executive Director Lolita Harper to unpack the complexities of the justice system, the challenges of criminal legislation, and how law enforcement and prosecutors can work together to create safer communities.

From the impact of Prop 36 to the future of crime prevention, this is a must-watch conversation for anyone invested in public safety, justice, and the rule of law.

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Podcast Overview:

[02:30] - What is Prop 36? Prop 36 addresses gaps left by Prop 47, aiming to reduce drug-related crime and homelessness.

[08:15] - How Prop 36 Works Drug offenses can now be charged as felonies, but offenders can avoid jail by completing rehab.

[12:30] - Addressing Theft & Serial Offenders Prop 36 allows repeat theft offenders to face felony charges, helping stop serial shoplifters.

[18:00] - Impact of Prop 47 & 57 Prop 47 & 57 led to rising theft, addiction, and homelessness, frustrating law enforcement.

[24:45] - Past Drug Court Success Before Prop 47, San Bernardino led the nation in drug courts, helping hundreds overcome addiction.

[30:10] - Prop 36 & Retail Theft Retailers like Target & Home Depot supported Prop 36 to combat rising shoplifting crimes.

[35:55] - Legislative Challenges DAs and police were excluded from policy discussions, leading to ineffective crime laws.

[42:20] - Accountability & Rehabilitation Prop 36 ensures rehabilitation is a choice, not a loophole, by requiring personal accountability.

[48:15] - The Death Penalty Debate California voters continue to support the death penalty, but politics undermines enforcement.

[55:40] - Homelessness & Addiction Homelessness is often tied to addiction, not just housing issues. Prop 36 aims to break this cycle.

[1:02:20] - Law Enforcement & Mental Health Many mental health crises stem from drug use. Programs like Laura’s Law help with intervention.

[1:08:45] - Training for Prop 36 New officers don’t remember pre-Prop 47 laws. DA’s office is training them on new enforcement.

[1:15:10] - Measuring Success Success will be tracked by rehab completions, case dismissals, and crime reduction.

[1:22:30] - Community Engagement DA Anderson teaches high school students about their legal rights and law enforcement roles.

[1:30:45] - Final Thoughts Public safety is everyone’s responsibility. Prop 36 must be implemented fairly for real change.

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To learn more about the San Bernardino County District Attorney's Office visit: https://sbcountyda.org/

Learn more about the Sheriff's Employees' Benefit Association (SEBA): https://www.seba.com/

SEBA is the Sheriff's Employees' Benefit Association proudly representing 4,000+ public safety officers in San Bernardino County since 1946

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The Brief: In this Lo & Order, SEBA Executive Director Lolita Harper dives into the ever-shifting political landscape, using Governor Gavin Newsom as a prime example of why politicians can’t always be trusted. Once a vocal supporter of defunding the police, Newsom has now done a complete 180—denouncing the movement he once championed. But was he ever really on board?

Lolita pulls back the curtain on Sacramento politics, exposing how elected officials often say one thing in front of the cameras while admitting something entirely different behind closed doors. As Newsom eyes a bigger national stage, his policy pivots raise a critical question: Are our leaders guided by principles, or just chasing poll numbers?

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Learn more about the Sheriff's Employees' Benefit Association (SEBA): https://www.seba.com/

SEBA is the Sheriff's Employees' Benefit Association proudly representing 4,000+ public safety officers in San Bernardino County since 1946

Follow Show Host Lolita Harper:

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The Brief: Law enforcement has faced years of political weaponization, leaving officers caught in the crossfire of partisan agendas. We're making this message in response to recent press inquiries about preemptive pardons and their impact on law enforcement.

The hypocrisy is exhausting—leaders who once defunded and disrespected police are now pretending to champion law enforcement, using us as a political weapon to attack their opponents. This isn’t about taking sides; it’s about standing up for the men and women who serve with integrity and asking for the respect they deserve. Stop using law enforcement as a political tool—our profession and communities deserve better

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Learn more about the Sheriff's Employees' Benefit Association (SEBA): https://www.seba.com/

SEBA is the Sheriff's Employees' Benefit Association proudly representing 4,000+ public safety officers in San Bernardino County since 1946

Follow Show Host Lolita Harper:

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On this episode of Lo and Order, we talk to Valerie Vaca, the widow of Sergeant Dominic Vaca. She shares her powerful story of love, loss, and resilience after Dominic was killed in the line of duty on May 31, 2021.

In this deeply moving conversation, Valerie opens up about the realities of surviving families—the grief, the struggles, and the unwavering commitment to keeping their loved ones’ legacies alive.

She sheds light on the importance of continuous support beyond the End of Watch date, the role of law enforcement families, and how we can all do better in honoring our fallen heroes by being present for those they left behind.

This is not just a conversation about loss—it’s a testament to strength, advocacy, and the unbreakable bond of the law enforcement community.

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To get involved in the Sergeant Dominic Vaca Memorial Football Tournament, visit their page on Instagram: vacamemorialtournament

To register for the the 2025 3rd Annual Honor Our Fallen and Remember the Families 5K Memorial Run visit: http://getmeregistered.com/sebahonor

Learn more about the Sheriff's Employees' Benefit Association (SEBA): https://www.seba.com/

SEBA is the Sheriff's Employees' Benefit Association proudly representing 4,000+ public safety officers in San Bernardino County since 1946

Follow Show Host Lolita Harper:

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LinkedIn

On this episode of Lo and Order, we sit down with San Bernardino County Sheriff Shannon Dicus to discuss critical topics like recruitment and retention in law enforcement, and what we like to call the "BLTs" - beards, load-bearing vests and tattoos. This is LO AND ORDER.

https://wp.sbcounty.gov/sheriff/

Sheriff Shannon Dicus: https://www.instagram.com/sheriffshannondicus/

08:55 - Recruitment Challenges and Incentives: Recruitment strategies include referral bonuses, hiring bonuses, and targeted outreach to military personnel and local communities. The Sheriff emphasizes innovative approaches like mentorship programs and pre-academy preparation to attract and retain candidates.

13:01 - Load-Bearing Vest Policy: The Sheriff outlines the journey and challenges in implementing load-bearing vests, emphasizing their importance for reducing injuries and ensuring officer safety. He discusses the insurance policy complications and the steps taken to address these issues, such as sourcing approved vests and initiating field testing with 20 units.

19:32 - Tattoo and Beard Policy: The Sheriff explains his stance on tattoos and beards, focusing on maintaining a professional image. He supports exemptions for religious reasons (e.g., Sikh officers) while prioritizing a unified, professional look for the department.

29:09 - Staffing and Retention Issues: The Sheriff addresses the increasing number of deputies leaving due to dissatisfaction with California’s law enforcement climate and economic factors. He discusses the rapid promotion of younger officers due to high turnover and the challenges this creates.

32:27 - Commitment to Listening and Balancing Stakeholder Needs: The Sheriff emphasizes his willingness to listen to both his deputies and the community to make informed decisions. He acknowledges competing priorities and strikes a balance between operational effectiveness and public expectations.

40:15 - Balancing Modern Expectations with Tradition: The Sheriff discusses the generational shift in work-life balance expectations. He acknowledges the importance of adapting policies, like alternative schedules and job-sharing, to attract and retain a younger workforce while maintaining operational effectiveness.

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Learn more about the Sheriff's Employees' Benefit Association (SEBA): https://www.seba.com/

SEBA is the Sheriff's Employees' Benefit Association proudly representing 4,000+ public safety officers in San Bernardino County since 1946

Follow Show Host Lolita Harper:

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LinkedIn