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RSA History

The Riverside Sheriffs' Association has served sworn personnel and public safety employees across Riverside County for decades, building a legacy of advocacy, support, and community engagement that continues to define who we are today.

RSA office wall displaying the Riverside Sheriff's Association banner and numerous award plaques.

The beginning

The origins of the Riverside Sheriffs' Association are tied to the creation of the Sheriff's Department’s training program and the establishment of the Sheriff's Training Center. RSA began in 1943 as the Riverside County Sheriff's Training Center Corporation. Over time, it evolved into a labor organization representing members—individually and collectively—in matters related to employer-employee relations, including grievances, labor disputes, wages, hours, and working conditions as prescribed by law.

1930s

In the late 1930s, former Sheriff Carl F. Rayburn and Undersheriff Steve Lynch formed a team to professionalize law enforcement in Riverside County, introducing formal classroom and firearms training with support from the FBI.

After the County declined to fund training or provide facilities, Sheriff Rayburn created a non-profit corporation in 1943 to accept donated land for a training center. Off-duty deputies developed the site, constructing buildings, converting surplus Army barracks into classrooms, and building a firing range with supporting facilities.

A Riverside County Sheriff's deputy piloting a patrol boat at high speed on a lake.
Riverside County Sheriff's deputies on horseback lined up in formation on a grassy area near a palm tree.

1950s

By 1953, rising maintenance costs made it difficult for the corporation to sustain operations. Members deeded the facility to the County in exchange for funding to maintain and expand training programs.

The corporation was dissolved in 1954 and replaced by the unincorporated Sheriff's Relief Association.

1960s

The association joined PORAC in 1961 and was re-incorporated on July 31, 1968, as the Riverside Sheriffs' Association.

Two Riverside County Sheriff's deputies in orange drysuits rappelling from a helicopter over a lake during a water rescue training exercise.
Group of Riverside County Sheriff's deputies standing in front of a sheriff helicopter with mountains in the background.

2019 – Today

RSA has continued to evolve alongside the needs of its membership. In 2019, the organization expanded its digital presence, launching an updated website to improve accessibility and usability. The All Points Bulletin magazine transitioned to a digital format, allowing members to access it across devices. RSA also increased its presence on social media to enhance communication with members and the community.

Today, RSA continues to represent its members and provide resources in support of their professional needs.