Captain Aaron Rosenberg

In early 2003, then-Sergeant Vernon H. Warnke was tasked with forming the Merced County Sheriff's Office’s first Honor Guard. This photo features the founding members of the Honor Guard, which performed its first ceremony shortly after its formation in the summer of 2003.

Pictured here, the Honor Guard is seen preparing to post the Colors at the Merced County Peace Officers’ Memorial, circa 2004.

Front row: Sergeant Vern Warnke (later Sheriff)
Second row: Deputy Ralph Zyskowski (Retired), Deputy Corey Gibson (now Undersheriff), Deputy Kevin Blake (now Sergeant), Deputy Rick Shukri (Retired)
Third row: Correctional Officer Terry Adams (Retired), Deputy Dan Edmonson (Deceased), Deputy Aaron Rosenberg (now Captain)

Today I was honored to receive my 25 Years of Service pin and certificate from the Merced County Sheriff's Office.

It’s hard to believe it’s been a quarter of a century serving the people of Merced County, the State of California, and working alongside some of the finest men and women in law enforcement.

This milestone means a lot to me — not just for the years, but for the experiences, the challenges, the growth, and the incredible people I’ve had the privilege to serve with along the way.

Thank you to everyone who’s been part of this journey — past and present. I’m proud of the work we’ve done and look forward to continuing to serve the people of Merced County.

Please keep a lookout.

Le Grand, CA – The Merced County Sheriff’s Office is currently on scene investigating a fatal train vs. pedestrian incident near Highway 99 and Vista Road in Le Grand.

At this time, we have confirmed that a male pedestrian was struck by a train and succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The incident remains under active investigation; however, preliminary findings indicate that it appears to be accidental.

Anyone with information related to this case is urged to contact the Merced County Sheriff’s Office at (209) 385-7444.

Further details will be provided as they become available.

For media inquiries, please contact Captain Aaron Rosenberg at (209) 564-0023 or via email at [email protected].

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UPDATE: Victim Identified in Suspicious Le Grand RV Fire Investigation

Le Grand, CA – The Merced County Sheriff’s Office, in conjunction with Arson Investigators from Merced County Fire, continues to investigate the cause of a suspicious fire that occurred on March 7, 2025, at approximately 11:27 PM in the 3800 block of Washington in Le Grand.

Through forensic examination and dental records, the Merced County Coroner's Office has positively identified the male victim as 54-year-old Rodney Lefler who was the owner of the RV. Authorities are continuing their efforts to determine the circumstances surrounding the fire, including whether accelerants were used. Additional forensic testing is still in progress.

The investigation remains active, and further updates will be provided as new information becomes available. Anyone with information related to this case is urged to contact Detective Ortiz at (209) 307-7474.

For media inquiries, please contact Captain Aaron Rosenberg at (209)564-0023 or via email at [email protected].
Merced County Sheriff's Office

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Today, I had the honor of attending The City of Atwater's National Day of Remembrance Ceremony at the Atwater Community Center. It is crucial that we continue to honor the victims of September 1, 2001, while recognizing the lasting impacts of that tragic day. Equally important is our commitment to promote vigilance, preparedness, and global cooperation in the ongoing fight against terrorism to help preserve peace.

A special thanks to the Atwater Police Department and Chief Michael Salvador for serving as the Master of Ceremonies.

Photo Credit: Merced County Sheriff's Office

🚓 Congratulations to Deputies Kaelin Davison, Emilio Granado, and Tony Zambrano! 🚓

We are proud to announce that Deputies Davison, Granado, and Zambrano have been honored with an award from Stop Stick for their exceptional efforts in safely terminating multiple high-speed pursuits using the Stop Stick tire deflation device.

Over the last two weeks, these dedicated deputies have successfully halted 5 dangerous pursuits, leading to multiple arrests, the recovery of several stolen vehicles, and the ex*****on of numerous outstanding arrest warrants.

The Stop Stick tire deflation device is just one of many tools our agency employs to ensure the safety of our community by bringing dangerous pursuits to a safe conclusion.

Join us in applauding Deputies Davison, Granado, and Zambrano for their bravery and commitment to protecting and serving our community! 👏👮

Our hearts are heavy as we say goodbye today to our dear friend and colleague Tricia Yerrick. Trish brought so much laughter and joy to our lives with her incredible sense of humor. It was a privilege to work alongside her at the Sheriff's Office, where her dedication and spirit touch us all.

To Marty, Cailyn, Kyle, and the rest of the family, please accept my deepest condolences. May you find comfort in the many beautiful memories you shared with Tricia. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Did you know the Merced County Sheriff's Office is currently recruiting for CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS? Apply Here: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/merced/jobs/4596777/code-enforcement-officer-i-ii-extra-help-code-enforcement-officer-i-ii?pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs

Another year done, at The Merced County Fair! This year’s crowds were fantastic, and I don’t remember seeing a more polite group of people in my 26 years of law enforcement. The Sheriff’s Office had very few incidents this year which has a lot to do with the quality of good people in Merced County.

Congratulations to the Merced County Fair Board, Luis Lara, Mark Erreca, Emily Haden, Vicky Banaga, Lori Gallo, Mark Pazin, Kim Rogina, and Carol Satori-Silva for another successful event. A super-special thank you goes out to Teresa Burrola, Richard Sandoval, Alma Guzman, Nick Rocha, and Terri O’Leary-Collins for putting this year’s fair together.