Death Investigation 

October 9, 2026 – San Diego County Sheriff’s Office officials report that on Thursday, October 8, 2026, the San Diego County Sheriff’s Homicide Unit was notified of the death of a 34‑year‑old male in Sheriff’s custody at the George Bailey Detention Facility. The individual was found deceased following an apparent self‑inflicted hanging.

At approximately 3:20 p.m. on October 8, 2026, a Sheriff's Deputy conducting a security check discovered an incarcerated person hanging inside his assigned cell. The individual was housed alone. Deputies immediately activated 9‑1‑1, requested assistance from on‑site medical staff, and began life‑saving measures.

CAL FIRE and paramedics continued resuscitation efforts upon arrival. Despite these efforts, the individual was pronounced deceased at approximately 4:05 p.m.

The individual had been arrested by the San Diego Police Department on May 13, 2026, on several sexual assault-related charges, including assault with intent to commit rape, sexual penetration with a foreign object, preventing a person from reporting a crime by force, and resisting arrest. He was scheduled to appear in court on October 19, 2026.

The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office extends its sympathies to the decedent’s family and all those affected by this loss. A Sheriff's Family Liaison Officer has been assigned to support the family during this difficult time.

The Citizens’ Law Enforcement Review Board (CLERB) has been notified. In accordance with protocol for all in‑custody deaths, the Sheriff’s Homicide Unit is conducting a thorough investigation to ensure all aspects of this incident are fully examined. The Medical Examiner’s Office will determine the cause and manner of death.

Source: San Diego County Sheriff’s Office