In a move to shore up its correctional operations, the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office has announced the appointment of a new Assistant Sheriff for its Custody Bureau. The appointment acknowledges the intensifying complexities of managing jail facilities and conveys the department's commitment to reform and efficiency.

With over 700 correctional deputies spread across the Main Jail Complex and Elmwood Correctional Facility, the bureau has faced a multitude of challenges. These are compounded by a 2018 federal consent decree and ADA mandates, which have spurred a reshaping of operational policies, particularly concerning prisoner care and out-of-cell time. To address such growing needs, the Sheriff's Office rolled out two new divisions last year, aiming to boost educational and vocational programs and to ensure adherence with legal obligations, as the Sheriff’s office reported.

The newly-minted Assistant Sheriff, Michelle Asban, was promoted to usher in this wave of innovation and supervision. Asban, a first-generation Filipino American with a career inception dating back to 1999, has been instrumental in pushing for staff efficiency and wellness. Holding an advanced degree in public administration, she led significant initiatives as a Captain, including the augmentation of an inmate tracking system. "My role is about building a well-functioning organization where staff have the resources and training to do their jobs effectively," Assistant Sheriff Asban told the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office. "When we prioritize accountability, clear communication, and strong partnerships, we create a system that isn’t just compliant but built for long-term efficiency and stability."

Assistant Sheriff Asban's new jurisdiction involves further enhancement of operational efficiency and the promotion of the well-being of those in custody. It's a strategy that intertwines security with rehabilitative care to foster an atmosphere that respects human dignity while maintaining strict accountability. "We are committed to creating a safe and restorative environment where staff feel supported and those in our custody are treated with respect," said Asban via the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office.