Santa Cruz County Office of Inspector General
Santa Cruz OIG
Summary
Santa Cruz County established its Office of Inspector General under Ord. 5418 (2022), codified at Chapter 2.17 of the County Code, pursuant to AB 1185 (Cal. Gov. § 25303.7). The Board of Supervisors contracted OIR Group, which began work on July 1, 2023. The OIG reviews all deputy-involved shootings and in-custody deaths, reviews Internal Affairs investigations alleging excessive force, audits Sheriff's Office policies and procedures, and accepts community complaints. Subpoena power is exercised with County Counsel approval and is enforceable through Government Code § 25303.7. The OIG does not have supervisory or disciplinary authority over the Sheriff or deputies.
Independence Scorecard
| Appointment | Legislative appointment |
|---|---|
| Term length | Not specified |
| Removal standard | For cause only |
| Budget independence | Legislative line item |
| Subpoena power | Yes |
| Compel testimony | Yes |
| Records access | Case-by-case |
| Public reports required | Yes |
| Pre-publication review | None — reports published directly |
Statute
- Name
- Santa Cruz County Code Ch. 2.17 (Ord. 5418, adopted 2022)
- Citation
- Santa Cruz County Code Ch. 2.17; Ord. 5418 (2022); Cal. Gov. §25303.7 (AB 1185)
- Full text
- Full text of law →
Jurisdiction scope
Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office (law enforcement and jail operations)