Santa Barbara County Faces Millions in Sheriff's Office Overtime Costs

Residents raise concerns over budget overruns as other county services face cuts

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

As Santa Barbara County faces a $66 million budget hole, residents are voicing concerns over the millions of dollars in overtime spending at the Sheriff's Office. The overtime costs, which are expected to reach over $20 million this year, come as the county is forced to cut back on parks maintenance, infrastructure repairs, and health and human services. Some county supervisors have called for a full audit and increased accountability for the Sheriff's department.

Why it matters

The high overtime costs at the Sheriff's Office are putting a strain on the county's overall budget, forcing cuts to other critical public services that residents rely on. This raises questions about the department's staffing and management practices, as well as the need for greater fiscal responsibility and transparency.

The details

According to reports, 29 Sheriff's Office employees are earning more in overtime pay than in their base salaries. The department claims it is understaffed, but county data shows it is less understaffed than many other agencies. The Sheriff has been authorized to hire additional officers, but says they are "not ready for the field" without explanation. County Supervisors Capps and Hartmann have called for a full audit of the Sheriff's Office to address the budget overruns.

  • The Sheriff's Office overtime costs are expected to reach over $20 million this fiscal year.
  • The county is currently facing a $66 million budget hole.

The players

Sheriff Brown

The Sheriff of Santa Barbara County whose department is facing scrutiny over its high overtime spending.

Supervisor Capps

A Santa Barbara County Supervisor who has called for a full audit of the Sheriff's Office.

Supervisor Hartmann

A Santa Barbara County Supervisor who has called for increased accountability for the Sheriff's department's budget overruns.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Why isn't the Sheriff being asked to tighten his department? Instead, using the mantra of 'inadequate staffing' he is asking for overtime costs this year that are expected to reach over $20 million.”

— Beryl Kreisel, Santa Barbara County Resident (independent.com)

What’s next

County Supervisors Capps and Hartmann have called for a full audit of the Sheriff's Office to address the budget overruns and determine if the department's staffing and management practices are appropriate.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for greater fiscal responsibility and transparency in local government, as well as the importance of aligning public safety spending with the overall community's needs and available resources. As Santa Barbara County faces difficult budget decisions, residents are rightfully concerned about the disproportionate costs of the Sheriff's Office overtime and the impact on other vital public services.