A problem with oversight Santa Clara County sheriffs office lags on internal investigations

A report from Santa Clara County's oversight office reveals significant delays in internal affairs investigations regarding deputy misconduct, with cases frequently completed just before the one-year statute of limitations. The chronic understaffing of the Sheriff’s Internal Affairs Office has resulted in large caseloads, causing slowdowns in opening and assigning investigations. Michael Gennaco, head of the oversight office, emphasized the negative impact of these delays on witness recollection and overall public confidence. Sheriff Bob Jonsen stated that recent structural changes, including the addition of personnel and the formation of a new division, aim to enhance the efficiency of these inquiries. The report also highlighted a backlog of approximately 60 internal affairs cases, which has raised concerns about accountability.

Community leaders, including NAACP President Sean Allen, express skepticism about the improvements and continue to demand accountability, especially following the recent death of Oscar Umulxicay in custody. Recent misconduct cases reported include inappropriate use of deputy leave and failure to conduct timely welfare checks in jails. The oversight office plans to review the circumstances surrounding Umulxicay's death as part of its ongoing monitoring efforts.