Title
Consider options to address complaints at the Sheriff’s Office
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors provide direction to address complaints at the Sheriff’s Office
SUMMARY/ DISCUSSION:
There have been several reports of allegations of harassment and other wrongdoings at the Sheriff’s Office. These reports have surfaced in the media as well as litigation. The Board of Supervisors sets policies for the County of Monterey but has limited ability to address operations within Sheriff’s Office. These limitations stem from sources such as the California Constitution and California statutes, including the Peace Officer Bill of Rights (POBR). County employees accused of violating County policies are subject to investigation and potential discipline through processes controlled by the Board of Supervisors. POBR, however, limits the ability of non-peace officers to discipline peace officers.
The Board recently commented on the limits of their authority while recognizing that they set overall County policies. Mindful of the Board’s concerns over allegations pertaining to employee transgressions, the Board may wish to consider the following options:
1. Refer recent matters to the California Attorney General.
2. Refer recent matters to the District Attorney.
3. Refer recent matters to the Civil Grand Jury
4. Engage with the ultimate Sheriff-elect after the election on Board concerns for the Office of The Sheriff-Coroner. Work proactively with the newly elected Sheriff to move forward with best practices.
There may be other options for the Board to consider. We are open for direction from the Board to address these issues.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
FINANCING:
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC INITIATIVES:
Mark a check to the related Board of Supervisors Strategic Initiatives
__Economic Development
X Administration
__Health & Human Services
__Infrastructure
__Public Safety
Prepared by: Charles J. McKee, CAO
Approved by: Charles J. McKee, CAO