A season of change: Meet the new Undersheriff
The Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office is entering a new season of transformation, guided by the leadership of passionate, community-focused people like Dalia Rodriguez, who has been promoted to Undersheriff.
With a career spanning 27 years, Undersheriff Rodriguez’s promotion comes at a time when the Sheriff's Office is navigating complex challenges, adopting new technologies, and strengthening relationships within the community.
“My vision is to build a law enforcement team that is well-trained, empathetic, and equipped to address the needs of our diverse communities,” Rodriguez said. “We must protect the vulnerable, hold those who break the law accountable, and wear the badge with respect, integrity, and honor.”
Rodriguez’s career reflects perseverance and purpose. Originally from El Salvador, she emigrated to the United States in the early 1980s, earned a degree in Political Science from San Jose State University, and later graduated from the FBI National Academy. These formative experiences shaped her path in law enforcement, where she has dedicated her career to making a positive impact.
“I clearly remember the day I walked into the Sheriff's Office to take the written exam for deputy sheriff; I was excited when I saw women in uniform,” Rodriguez said. “I was even more thrilled to learn that other deputies were of different nationalities and spoke other languages.”
Her career with the Sheriff’s Office began in 1997 as a deputy, and over the years, Rodriguez has steadily advanced through the ranks, serving in a variety of leadership roles. She was the director of the Justice Training Center, commander of the Crisis Negotiation Team, and the Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team. Additionally, she played an instrumental role in organizing the first Women in Law Enforcement Symposium.
Rodriguez vividly recalls an early moment that deepened her commitment to the work of the Sheriff's Office.
“During my first ride-along with a Spanish-speaking deputy in East San Jose, I observed his interactions with the community. I watched as he engaged with young people and made arrests to protect those who were being victimized,” she said. “These experiences made a lasting impression on me. They demonstrated that the Sheriff’s Office prioritized hiring individuals who reflect the communities they serve.”
Her promotion to Undersheriff marks a pivotal moment in her career.
“Law enforcement was not something I dreamed of as a child, but I knew I wanted to help people and be part of something bigger (literally),” Rodriguez said. “I was motivated by the challenge.”
Her story is one of breaking barriers and setting an example of what is possible when people are empowered with the tools, training, and opportunities to succeed.
As Undersheriff, Rodriguez remains dedicated to fostering an agency grounded in respect, collaboration, and strong community partnerships, ensuring the Sheriff’s Office moves forward with purpose and a focus on service to all.