County mourns passing of Sgt. Grant Ward – Welcome to San Bernardino County

A person in San Bernardino County Sheriff's uniform is smiling. The uniform displays badges and an American flag patch. The background features a U.S. flag. — *Sgt. Grant Ward, longtime president of the Sheriff’s Employees’ Benefit Association.*

San Bernardino County is deeply saddened by the passing of Sheriff’s Sgt. Grant Ward, longtime president of the Sheriff’s Employees’ Benefit Association, SEBA, following a lengthy battle with cancer. Our hearts go out to his wife and two daughters, his SEBA family and the Sheriff’s Department.

“Grant effectively and tirelessly advocated for the safety and well-being of the men and women of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, District Attorney investigators, probation corrections officers, specialized fire officers, probation supervisors, and welfare fraud investigators,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman and Third District Supervisor Dawn Rowe. “His leadership, passion and good nature will be missed by all who were blessed to know him.”

“Grant was a trusted and valuable partner in our efforts to keep San Bernardino County safe for our families and to ensure the success and security of those who serve our communities remains a top priority,” said San Bernardino County CEO Luther Snoke. “I will miss working with Grant, but I will always treasure what we learned and accomplished together.”

Sgt. Ward grew up in Rancho Cucamonga, began his career in law enforcement in 1998, joined the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department in 2004 and became SEBA president in 2017.

Sgt. Ward dedicated his life to law enforcement and service to others. He once said, “I am proud to be a deputy sheriff and a voice for the front lines. I became a police officer to help people; I became a union executive to help police officers. Thank you for allowing me this opportunity.”

As SEBA president, Sgt. Ward focused on protecting and promoting the interests of members through collective bargaining for all five bargaining units, strengthening legal protections for members, and expanding political advocacy at both the county and state levels.

Under his leadership, SEBA restructured its Legal Defense program, resulting in the creation of the SEBA Legal Fund in 2019, providing improved legal services and direct oversight for members. Sgt. Ward also ensured SEBA had a strong presence in Sacramento, working closely with the Board of Supervisors and partnering with organizations including PORAC, CCLEA, SCALE and Protect California to advance the priorities of law enforcement professionals.

Sgt. Ward was deeply committed to member services and community involvement. He supported numerous family-focused events, strengthened the Peace Officers Relief Fund, and helped countless members through financial hardship and personal tragedy. Through SEBA, hundreds of thousands of dollars were donated to charitable causes that directly benefited the communities deputies serve.

Throughout his career, Grant was known as a tireless advocate, respected leader and source of unwavering optimism. Even during his illness, he continued to serve with resilience, strength and grace. He was honored for his leadership, perseverance and steadfast dedication to others.

San Bernardino County is grateful for Sgt. Ward’s service, and we are keeping his loved ones in our thoughts and prayers.

Cards or condolences can be sent to either the SEBA Office at 1998 Orange Tree Lane, Redlands, CA 92374, or the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department at 655 E. Third Street, San Bernardino, CA 92415.

Additional County Update News – February 5, 2026