About Kelly Martinez

Kelly Martinez

Kelly Martinez is the first female to serve as Undersheriff in the history of San Diego County. She is running to be the Department's first female Sheriff. Kelly brings a wealth of experience and common sense law enforcement strategies to the job.

Kelly Martinez speaks with community members.

As second in command at the Sheriff’s Office, Kelly has already implemented major reforms with a strong focus on transparency. She believes the community needs to know how the Sheriff’s Department operates in order to ensure the confidence that everyone is being served fairly. Public safety begins in the community and the Sheriff’s Department is responsible for keeping us safe. Strong relationships are the foundation for success.

Kelly Martinez works at her desk.

Kelly has spent her entire law enforcement career in San Diego County. She knows the communities she serves. Kelly began as a Deputy Sheriff in 1985 and has worked her way through the ranks, serving as Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain, Commander, Assistant Sheriff, and now Undersheriff.

Kelly Martinez walks and talks with community members.

In her current role Kelly oversees the Department’s budget of more than $1 Billion. She supports 4,600 authorized employees, 21 Patrol Stations and Substations, 7 Detention Facilities, 7 Superior Court Facilities and the related Civil Division, a nationally accredited Crime Laboratory, and all the other functions necessary to provide for public safety throughout San Diego County.