Gore announces appointment of Assistant Sheriff Kelly Martinez to undersheriff

SAN DIEGO – Assistant Sheriff Kelly Martinez will be replacing Undersheriff Mike Barnett who is retiring after 29 years of service to the San Diego County Sheriff's Department and people of San Diego County. Barnett was thanked for his dedication and work to keep communities safe.

Martinez joined the sheriff's department as a deputy in 1985 and was assigned to the Las Colinas and Descanso Detention Facilities. In 1988, she was assigned to the Fallbrook sheriff's substation where she worked as a patrol deputy. She was later assigned to investigations and worked narcotics, gangs and several intelligence-related assignments.

Her strong leadership skills, hard work and self-motivation were just a few of the qualities that led to her promotion to sergeant in 2007. Over the next several years while serving in a variety of positions with increasing responsibility, Martinez was promoted to the ranks of lieutenant, captain and commander, and eventually she became assistant sheriff in 2017.

"Kelly brings to the position exceptional work ethic and commitment to the mission of the department," Sheriff William Gore said. "I am confident her wealth of experience and passion for community outreach will keep San Diego the safest urban county in the nation."

Submitted by the San Diego County Sheriff's Department.