SAN DIEGO-(October 21, 2025) Today, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors took a historic step toward strengthening accountability and transparency within the San Diego County Sheriff's Office (SDSO) by approving a proposal led by Vice Chair Monica Montgomery Steppe to evaluate the creation of an independent Office of Inspector General (OIG).

The Board directed the County’s Chief Administrative Officer and County Counsel to develop a comprehensive feasibility study that will outline how to establish an OIG under California Government Code § 25303.7(c). The proposed OIG would operate independently from the SDSO and report directly to the Board of Supervisors, ensuring a higher standard of ethical and operational accountability.

“At minimum, we must do our due diligence to save lives. This action represents a commitment to rebuild public trust, ensure transparency in our jails and law enforcement operations, and honor the voices of families and advocates who have long demanded justice and reform,” said Vice Chair Monica Montgomery Steppe. “The time for proactive, transformational oversight is now.”

The creation of an OIG is designed to complement the Citizens Law Enforcement Review Board (CLERB) 's role by providing deeper, proactive oversight over SDSO operations, policy enforcement, and service provision—particularly within the County’s detention facilities.

As envisioned, the OIG will be empowered to:

• Monitor SDSO operations, including conditions in jails, medical and mental health services, and staff conduct;
• Review use-of-force patterns and trends, as well as internal audits and disciplinary actions;
• Initiate independent investigations and inquiries with the ability to act at the request of the Board, CLERB, the Sheriff, or on its own;
• Recommend disciplinary actions to the Sheriff when misconduct is identified;
• Develop and propose policy reforms, particularly regarding use-of-force and critical incidents;
• Refer criminal misconduct to outside law enforcement or prosecutors, while continuing parallel investigations when appropriate;
• Issue subpoenas and administer oaths as necessary, when directed by the Board or CLERB;
• Serve as an attorney and special counsel to the Board and CLERB, enhancing legal oversight and reinforcing the office’s independence.

“We can always strengthen the tools we use to ensure our systems serve everyone in our region—and this one plays a key role in advancing accountability,” added Vice Chair Montgomery Steppe. “Oversight isn’t a negative thing. It’s about prevention, transparency, and fostering a culture of excellence in public safety. With appropriate oversight, everyone wins.”

The feasibility study will define the staffing, budget requirements, and legal authority necessary to establish the OIG. This process will ensure that the office is developed with a clear implementation strategy and a solid legal foundation. Within 120 days, the Board will receive an attorney-client privileged report containing a recommended draft ordinance for consideration and further action.