San Diego County Sheriff's Department: Response To State Audit Of County Jails

Imperial Beach CA

04 February, 2022

9:35 AM

Description

Press release from San Diego County Sheriff's Department: 02/03/2022 10:20 AM The California State Auditor (CSA) has released its report on San Diego County Jails.  The independent review was conducted at the request of the California Joint Legislative Audit Committee (JLAC) after state legislators presented an audit request to JLAC on June 30, 2021. The evaluation reviewed in-custody deaths at San Diego County Sheriff's Department jails over the last 15 years, as well as the protocol and prevention procedures.  State auditors conducted their review of the Sheriff's Department from July 2021 to December 2021. The audit was extensive and included every aspect of Sheriff's Department's record of in-custody deaths, policies, procedures, facility maintenance and staff records.  The department was open and transparent during the audit.  We participated and cooperated throughout the entire process.  We take the findings of the audit seriously and are taking action to implement the recommendations.  Many of JLAC's recommendations are ones that we provided and completely support. They also align with our existing practices, current and future plans, as well as proactive efforts to continuously improve health care services and the safety of our jails.  These recommendations will require substantial investment in the existing jail system. They include, but are not limited to, hiring more personnel and renovations at our detention facilities. The County Board of Supervisors has already approved funding for more healthcare staff and we are actively working to fill these positions. Infrastructure and technology investments to the existing jails are planned and moving forward. The addition of programs such as medication-assisted treatment and mental health evaluations at intake are already in process or in place.  The full text of our response to the audit can be accessed here. Sheriff's Department jail staff and medical personnel are some of the finest, most dedicated, compassionate and committed county employees. We support change and know the recommendations will improve our jail system for the people in our custody and employees.  To learn more about the medical and mental health care we provide to people in custody, click here. Undersheriff Kelly Martinez is available for comment or interviews related to the report on Thursday, February 3 between 3:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. or Friday, February 4 between 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. To schedule an interview, send an email request to [email protected]. This press release was produced by San Diego County Sheriff's Department. The views expressed here are the author's own.