Deputy Sheriff Laura O’Reilly
San Francisco Sheriff’s Office
San Francisco, CA
Q: Why did you become a Deputy Sheriff?
I went to college for Criminal Justice and wanted to work within a jail facility of some sorts. Whether that was at the Adult or Juvenile level.
Q: What motivates you to succeed?
My wife and children. My wife and I want to be examples of where hard work can get you. I want my daughter to look up to her moms and see she can overcome boundaries to be who she wants and do what she wants.
Q: What is your most memorable moment on the job?
Meeting my wife of course! Also, the pride parade is always such a fun day.
Q: What challenges have you faced?
Learning new assignments, being able to communicate well with other deputies, being able to control a pod in a jail sometimes by myself. Working in a jail always has days that are challenging but you have to learn how to control your environment.
Q: What advice do you have for women considering a profession in policing?
Don’t be discouraged by the lack of females in policing. We are just as capable as any man to do this job.
How we’re changing policing
The 30×30 Initiative is a coalition of police leaders, researchers, and professional organizations committed to advancing and supporting the representation, experiences, and well-being of women at all levels of law enforcement, both in the U.S. and beyond.
Research shows that women play a crucial role in building community trust, de-escalating conflict, and improving public safety outcomes, with evidence linked to reduced use of force and enhanced relationships with the communities they serve. However, women represent less than 14% of sworn officers and 20% of recruits in state and local law enforcement agencies. Additionally, about 40% of the approximately 18,000 law enforcement agencies in the U.S. have no full-time women officers (Source: Bureau of Justice Statistics).
We are collaborating with hundreds of agencies to make law enforcement a profession where qualified women who are drawn to it feel welcomed and supported while ensuring agencies address their unique needs and foster their success.