About The Author
I hold three degrees: an A.A., a B.S., and a J.D. My career has been dedicated to public service, law enforcement, and education.
Legal Practice
After retiring from the Sheriff’s Department, I practiced law as a California attorney for approximately 20 years before retiring from that position.
Academic Contributions
I then transitioned to academia, teaching comprehensive Criminal Justice topics at several colleges in Southern California. My courses covered the entire spectrum of criminality, preparing students for careers as police officers, parole/probation officers, and other related fields.
Current Role
I am currently serving as a member of the Orange County Grand Jury, with my term ending on June 30, 2024.
About the Author
Dale J. Peroutka
Career in Law Enforcement
Los Angeles Deputy Sheriff
I am a retired Los Angeles Deputy Sheriff with over 22 years of active, honorable service. My career in law enforcement encompassed both custody/jail duties and patrol.
Early Assignment:
- Initially assigned to the Los Angeles County Jail in the Hall of Justice.
- Supervised and managed numerous gang members and assorted other felons.
- Notably, I got to know several high-profile inmates, including Charles Manson.
Transfer to Los Angeles County Jail:
- Worked at what was then the largest jail in the free world, housing nearly 8,000 inmates.
- Served as the Acting Legal Sergeant, dealing with numerous court orders involving our inmates.
- Acted as the Central Jail deputies’ liaison with the federal class action case Rutherford vs. Pitchess, which reached the U.S. Supreme Court.
Promotion to Sergeant:
- Assigned to Lakewood Sheriff’s Station, responsible for five different cities.
- Served as both a Patrol Sergeant and a Watch Sergeant, responsible for station operations.