Humboldt County 2023-2024 - California Grand Jury Reports

F1: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: The Humboldt County Animal Shelter manual is comprehensive, clear, and defines roles and tasks for staff and volunteers. The manual makes it easier for staff and volunteers to understand their job duties.

Related Recommendations (1)

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F2: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: The number of euthanasia’s in 1998 of over 4,000 animals was reduced to 78 cats and dogs in 2021. This reduction saves money, reduces stress, and is appreciated by the public. HCCGJ Report: https://humboldtgov.org/Archive.aspx?ADID=1536 4 Sheriff’s response: https://humboldtgov.org/DocumentCenter/View/122794/Custody-and-Corrections---Sheriffs- Office-Response 5 Ibid.

Related Recommendations (1)

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F3: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: The Humboldt County Animal Shelter roof has been leaking for several years, causing damage to the building. The leaking roof could result in further damage. (R1)

Related Recommendations (2)

R1: The Humboldt County Sheriff repair the roof. The repair is to be completed by October 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #2. (F3)

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F4: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: Outdoor parking lot entry lights are dysfunctional or absent. This lack of lighting leads to safety concerns for staff and clients. (R2)

Related Recommendations (2)

R2: The Humboldt County Sheriff repair or replace inoperable outside parking, exterior, and visitation lights. This is to be completed by October 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #2. (F4, F5) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff fund the expenses listed in R1 and R2 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS AND REHABILITATION, EEL RIVER CONSERVATION CAMP #31 The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), Eel River Conservation Camp #31 (ERCC) is a hundred-acre State of California minimum security facility located in Redway, California. It has a capacity of 120 inmates and currently houses 65, as well as 8 correctional staff. Staffing The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury confined our investigation to the health and safety of the inmates incarcerated at this camp. This firefighting camp consists of three California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) firefighting crews and one CDCR work crew. The staff enjoys the work at ERCC and are dedicated. At the time of our tour, three State of California Correctional Officers were on medical leave. Prisoners The prisoners at this camp learn skills including food service, facilities maintenance, vegetable and herb farming, small farm animal care, woodworking, construction, and firefighting. All inmates are screened by the Sierra Conservation Center for assignment to the various State of California camps. Inmates must be physically able to perform tasks required for firefighting and other duties. The inmates can earn $2.50 per day in wages and $5.00 per day when engaged in firefighting. Based on their behavior, inmates may be sent from a traditional prison to a camp or vice versa. They may get two weeks off their sentence for every three months spent in a correctional camp. After serving their sentence at a correctional camp, firefighting inmates may qualify to be hired by CAL FIRE. According to staff, three previously incarcerated ERCC inmates were hired by CAL FIRE in the last four years. On the day of our visit, the HCCGJ observed well-disciplined inmates playing basketball and other sports in the outdoor recreation area. In an indoor recreational activity area, they were playing pool, watching movies, and reading one of the many books available to them. Inmates have dorms and private lockers. Accounting for inmates is done by taking head counts every day. Each Correctional Officer is assigned a certain number of prisoners and must conduct three searches for contraband per shift. Outbuildings There is a large warehouse located on the grounds. In addition to CAL FIRE firefighting gear, the warehouse stores supplies including clothing, food staples, cleaning supplies, towels, toilet paper, and bedding. An emergency fire hose cabinet is on the back wall of the warehouse. The water supply pipe to this cabinet is repaired with what appeared to be duct tape. It is questionable whether this repair would be sufficient in the event of an emergency, and it may be in violation of federal Occupational Safety and Health Act requirements. However, staff told us that the facility passed a fire marshal’s inspection on November 20, 2023. We noted that the fire extinguisher located on the front door walkway side wall of the warehouse had a tag indicating it had last been inspected in October of 2022. The Conservation Camp is adjacent to the privately owned Redway Transfer Station, a publicly available waste transfer site operated by Recology, with no fence separating the two spaces. Staff informed us that this area is commonly used by inmates to obtain contraband from non- incarcerated accomplices. Cell phones and illegal drugs are the most common contraband. A fence that surrounded the waste transfer site, and that was secured during non-operating hours, would discourage the easy transfer of contraband. Because the waste transfer site is privately owned and operated, CDCR would need to collaborate with Recology to secure the site.

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F5: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: Outdoor yard area lighting is dysfunctional or absent. This lack of lighting may lead to fewer evening adoptions. (R2)

Related Recommendations (2)

R2: The Humboldt County Sheriff repair or replace inoperable outside parking, exterior, and visitation lights. This is to be completed by October 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #2. (F4, F5) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff fund the expenses listed in R1 and R2 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS AND REHABILITATION, EEL RIVER CONSERVATION CAMP #31 The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), Eel River Conservation Camp #31 (ERCC) is a hundred-acre State of California minimum security facility located in Redway, California. It has a capacity of 120 inmates and currently houses 65, as well as 8 correctional staff. Staffing The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury confined our investigation to the health and safety of the inmates incarcerated at this camp. This firefighting camp consists of three California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) firefighting crews and one CDCR work crew. The staff enjoys the work at ERCC and are dedicated. At the time of our tour, three State of California Correctional Officers were on medical leave. Prisoners The prisoners at this camp learn skills including food service, facilities maintenance, vegetable and herb farming, small farm animal care, woodworking, construction, and firefighting. All inmates are screened by the Sierra Conservation Center for assignment to the various State of California camps. Inmates must be physically able to perform tasks required for firefighting and other duties. The inmates can earn $2.50 per day in wages and $5.00 per day when engaged in firefighting. Based on their behavior, inmates may be sent from a traditional prison to a camp or vice versa. They may get two weeks off their sentence for every three months spent in a correctional camp. After serving their sentence at a correctional camp, firefighting inmates may qualify to be hired by CAL FIRE. According to staff, three previously incarcerated ERCC inmates were hired by CAL FIRE in the last four years. On the day of our visit, the HCCGJ observed well-disciplined inmates playing basketball and other sports in the outdoor recreation area. In an indoor recreational activity area, they were playing pool, watching movies, and reading one of the many books available to them. Inmates have dorms and private lockers. Accounting for inmates is done by taking head counts every day. Each Correctional Officer is assigned a certain number of prisoners and must conduct three searches for contraband per shift. Outbuildings There is a large warehouse located on the grounds. In addition to CAL FIRE firefighting gear, the warehouse stores supplies including clothing, food staples, cleaning supplies, towels, toilet paper, and bedding. An emergency fire hose cabinet is on the back wall of the warehouse. The water supply pipe to this cabinet is repaired with what appeared to be duct tape. It is questionable whether this repair would be sufficient in the event of an emergency, and it may be in violation of federal Occupational Safety and Health Act requirements. However, staff told us that the facility passed a fire marshal’s inspection on November 20, 2023. We noted that the fire extinguisher located on the front door walkway side wall of the warehouse had a tag indicating it had last been inspected in October of 2022. The Conservation Camp is adjacent to the privately owned Redway Transfer Station, a publicly available waste transfer site operated by Recology, with no fence separating the two spaces. Staff informed us that this area is commonly used by inmates to obtain contraband from non- incarcerated accomplices. Cell phones and illegal drugs are the most common contraband. A fence that surrounded the waste transfer site, and that was secured during non-operating hours, would discourage the easy transfer of contraband. Because the waste transfer site is privately owned and operated, CDCR would need to collaborate with Recology to secure the site.

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F6: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Eel River Conservation Camp #31 provides inmates with firefighting skills, which can result in future employment with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. These skills can help formerly incarcerated people obtain steady employment that may help prevent recidivism.

Related Recommendations (1)

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F7: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Eel River Conservation Camp #31 provides inmates with training in areas including culinary arts, gardening, and construction. This training can help formerly incarcerated people obtain steady employment that may help prevent recidivism.

Related Recommendations (1)

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F8: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Eel River Conservation Camp #31, warehouse emergency fire safety equipment is not adequately maintained or inspected recently. This can result in danger to employees, inmates, and property during a fire. (R3)

Related Recommendations (2)

R3: The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection ensure that all fire safety equipment and facilities at the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Eel River Conservation Camp #31 are in working condition. This is to be completed by November 30, 2024. (F8) Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. HUMBOLDT COUNTY JUVENILE DETENTION CENTER The Humboldt County Juvenile Detention Center (HCJDC) is a facility that offers an open and active setting to serve troubled youths who have been accused or convicted of criminal offenses. The youths housed here are referred to as “wards.” It is managed by the Humboldt County Probation Department. Educational programs, behavior modification, and social interactions within an empathetic environment are designed to help instead of to punish. The HCJDC is a new facility and experienced staff members were engaged in the planning and design phases. Staff Currently, the HCJDC has nine Juvenile Correctional Officers (JCO) with a starting pay of $19.10 per hour. During our investigation, the budgeted staff level was reported to us as 24 JCO positions. This staffing shortage results in mandatory overtime of one or two shifts per week. The HCJDC has an allocated Probation Officer, but the position is currently frozen. There is difficulty in recruiting and retaining staff due to low pay and better opportunities. Often, a JCO applicant passes all background checks and tests to be qualified only to find higher paying opportunities elsewhere within County government. Despite similar duties, Juvenile Correctional Officers earn $3.50 per hour less than the entry level pay for Correctional Officers at the Humboldt County Correctional Facility. Juvenile Correctional Officers undergo 40 hours of on-the-job training and within one year are required to have an additional 160 hours of training. Based on our interactions with juvenile hall employees and wards, staff appeared to be very dedicated and open to our questions. Staff performs required security duties such as periodic ward counts, silverware verification, and contraband searches. Wards are visually supervised by staff and are always accompanied by a staff member when not in the group areas. We observed that the staff is very positive about the work they do. Wards The HCJDC currently houses nine male and three female wards in one unit. Two of the male wards are over 18 years of age. The older juvenile hall facility, once it is refurbished, will house the older wards during daytime hours. It will also provide programs suitable for these older wards. The HCJDC houses wards accused or convicted of serious crimes. When a ward is sent to the HCJDC, the goal is to rehabilitate the individual rather than incarcerate. Wards are initially evaluated by staff, a probation officer, and a mental health worker or Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. A treatment plan is reviewed every six months for progress and modified if necessary. Wards are given an orientation packet immediately after being admitted into juvenile hall. This packet details behavior requirements and services available to the detainee. Wards are afforded multiple programs such as Anger Management, Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, and individual counseling. Treating wards with respect and offering them every opportunity to correct poor life choices is the philosophy at the HCJDC. Probation seeks to divert rather than incarcerate juveniles whenever possible. Visiting with parents is allowed in the multipurpose room, which is monitored by staff. Visiting siblings use a non-contact area to connect with wards via telephone or Facetime. If a ward is unruly or aggressive, the staff’s first response is to deescalate the situation. If the ward remains unruly, they are required to go to their room to cool down. Physical restraint is available but used as a last resort only. Wards have access to psychological counseling, with ongoing appointments available on an as-needed basis. Wards attend school and have access to Project Rebound, post-secondary education, and can earn a high school General Education Degree. They also have an option through virtual reality headsets to gain occupational training based on the ward’s interest. Prior to release, wards are provided with a plan that offers certain goals for parents, wards, and probation personnel. A “separation program” is used by the staff to ease reentry of the ward back into the community. Part of the pre-release program is to provide the wards with community service programs for support. Facility The new Humboldt County Juvenile Detention Center has been in operation for 3 years. It can house up to 24 wards and at the time of our visit there were 12 wards. It is designed with clear sight lines for unobstructed observation. The furniture is either designed so that it cannot be picked up or it is bolted down. All surfaces are curved for safety. Within the control station at the facility, staff monitor cameras that are located throughout the facility, including the exterior of each ward’s room, for the safety of everyone at the Center. The HCJDC also houses wards from Del Norte County. Given the cost of the facility and its current fifty-percent occupancy, we were told by staff that the HCJDC may become a regional facility serving nearby counties. We noted that the door from the covered basketball court leading to a grassy outdoor recreation area has no rain gutter. Staff and wards get soaked when exiting to the grassy recreation area during rainfall.

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F9: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: The current staff is dedicated to helping wards make a positive transition into the community after time spent in the Humboldt County Juvenile Detention Center. This positive transition can help prevent recidivism.

Related Recommendations (1)

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F10: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: Several educational and trade programs are offered to the wards, which can help prevent recidivism.

Related Recommendations (1)

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F11: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: Due to a lack of personnel, staff is required to put in mandatory overtime. This lack of personnel can cause burnout and low retention of staff. (R4)

Related Recommendations (2)

R4: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors adjust the Juvenile Correctional Officers pay scale to be more competitive with that of Correctional Deputies. This is to take place by July 1, 2025. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #5. (F11, F12)

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F12: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: Juvenile Correctional Officers are paid $3.50 per hour less than Correctional Deputies but with similar responsibilities and training. This lower wage makes it difficult to attract qualified staff. (R4)

Related Recommendations (2)

R4: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors adjust the Juvenile Correctional Officers pay scale to be more competitive with that of Correctional Deputies. This is to take place by July 1, 2025. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #5. (F11, F12)

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F13: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: There is no rain gutter in the area leading from the basketball court to the grass area. The lack of a rain gutter can cause staff and wards to get wet, leading to the potential for slip-and-fall accidents and repeatedly soaked clothing. (R5)

Related Recommendations (2)

R5: The Humboldt County Probation Department coordinate with Humboldt County Public Works to install a rain gutter above the walkway to the grass area by October 1, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #5. (F13) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the County Board of Supervisors fund the expenses listed in R4 and R5 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Probation Department and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. NOTE: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. HUMBOLDT COUNTY CORRECTIONAL FACILITY The Custody Services Division, which operates the Humboldt County Correctional Facility (HCCF), is the largest division in the Sheriff’s Office, with 109 Correctional Deputies (CD) and health workers. The facility’s primary function is the care and custody of sentenced and non- sentenced inmates. Located at 901 Fifth Street in Eureka and adjacent to the County courthouse, the HCCF spans approximately 155,000 square feet on six floors and has a capacity of 417 beds. The facility’s kitchen serves over 40,000 meals per year and the commercially sized laundry operates 24 hours per day. Inmate Processing All persons under arrest for a crime are processed identically. Upon entry to the facility, they are thoroughly searched and asked a standardized series of questions by a Correctional Deputy. These questions assist in determining where the arrestee will be housed. They are also asked a set of standardized physical health and behavioral health questions by a Registered Nurse. If the arrestee has any medical issues that pose an immediate danger they are “refused” by the facility. They must then be transported by the agency that arrested the person to a local hospital for medical clearance before returning to the facility. If, during intake, the Registered Nurse recognizes that an inmate is off their medication, appropriate medical decisions will be made. Senate Bill 132, The Transgender Respect, Agency and Dignity Act, became effective on January 1, 2021.6 It allows incarcerated transgender, non-binary and intersex people to request to be housed and searched in a manner consistent with their gender identity. Incoming arrestees are asked which gender they identify as and are also asked which gender they feel most comfortable being searched by. This inquiry also affects where the inmate is housed. Once the above has been completed the Classification Officer, who is a Correctional Deputy with additional training, determines where the inmate will be housed. Inmate Behavioral & Physical Health Services While in the facility, inmates have access to behavioral health clinicians Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Outside those hours, if necessary, there is an on-call clinician that can respond. However, the clinician’s availability is not guaranteed. In these situations, the intake staff makes a best judgement call until a clinician is available. For medical care, there are Registered Nurses and Licensed Vocational Nurses on-duty twenty-four-hours-a-day, seven- days-a-week. Nurse Practitioners and Physicians Assistants are also available if needed. California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation: https://www.cdcr.ca.gov/prea/sb-132- faqs/#:~:text=CDCR%20does%20not%20determine%20an,%2C%20non%2Dbinary%20or%20intersex Staffing The Humboldt County Correctional Facility has a complicated staffing schedule and hiring procedure. Correctional Deputies work twelve-and-a-half-hour shifts for three days, and then get four days off. The following week they work four twelve-and-a-half-hour shifts, followed by three days off. There is a 30-minute briefing between the oncoming shift and the outgoing shift to pass on necessary information. The HCCF has many unfilled positions. To provide 24-hour staffing, overtime is regularly assigned. Overtime is usually a full twelve-and-a-half-hour shift. The CDs are often exhausted on their days off due to the required overtime. At least one female CD is always assigned to the female dormitory, so there must be always one female CD on duty. Male CDs can work all housing sections of the jail, including the female side. Female CDs may be pulled from the male side to work the female side. A problem becomes particularly evident when the work shift only has one female assigned to that team. If there are two females assigned to the team, they can rotate with the male side. The HCCF is a good place to work for young people just starting a law enforcement career. Here, a correctional deputy can start at nineteen years of age and a Peace Officers Standards and Training basic certificate, which takes six months of training, is not required. It is not unusual for the process of hiring a new Correctional Deputy to take from four to six months. The Sheriff’s Office has made steps towards shortening this hiring period. For deputies recruited from another law enforcement agency, the hiring time to become a correctional deputy can be shortened because a background check was already done by their previous agency. The lag-time in hiring is discouraging to potential candidates searching for immediate work because they tend to take other jobs instead of waiting to get hired as a Correctional Deputy by Humboldt County. Additionally, the County’s time, money, and resources are wasted when the position is offered and not accepted. Once hired, CDs that are at least 21-years old can go through firearms training per California Penal Code §832. Carrying a firearm is required for transporting inmates outside of the facility. CDs also receive a limited amount of Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) when first hired and in the police academy. However, CDs do not get ongoing CIT training. Building Maintenance The Humboldt County Correctional Facility is 28 years old. It was constructed on ground affected by seismic activity and heavy truck traffic from Highway 101. As a result, the building’s structure is subject to damage over time. One issue is that the building is concrete and does not flex to absorb vibration. Another drawback of its concrete construction is that it takes hours or days for the air conditioning or heating to reach an appropriate temperature in the inmates’ living spaces and staff areas. We were told by staff that the correctional facility’s roof has been problematic since the building was constructed. They reported that in rainy weather the roof always has and still leaks badly, filling walls with moisture and leaking into lower levels. The County is reroofing the courthouse roof, but this does not include the correctional facility. Maintenance of the building is a near daily activity. The age of the building and the rough treatment it gets by inmates take a toll. Many Maintenance Request Forms have been filled out and recorded and building maintenance workers are dispatched during the day to make fixes. When maintenance is required at night, an on-call worker may come in to address the issue. If the on-call worker is not readily available, correctional deputies and inmates do what they can to handle the repair themselves. If plumbing cannot be corrected, the fixture’s water supply is turned off while awaiting repair. The Grand Jury visited the inmates exercise area, which has two pieces of equipment: a basketball hoop with no net and a wall-mounted parallel bar piece of exercise equipment. The basketball hoop was observed to be in good condition. The parallel bar equipment has padded sections where the covering is badly torn, and the stuffing is coming out. The torn padding makes it difficult to use for exercise and provides a place to hide contraband. The padding should be repaired, or the Humboldt County Correctional Facility has the option of replacing the exercise equipment. For example, exercise equipment such as that made by SuperMax Systems is made for prison use.7 The Department of Public Works has maintenance staff dedicated to the correctional facility. The Sheriff’s Department’s budget includes money for maintenance crews to keep up with repairs. Public Works schedules major projects such as reroofing a public building..

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F14: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: The Humboldt County Correctional Facility roof leaks. This leaking results in more maintenance and upkeep and could negatively impact living and working conditions for inmates and staff, as well as incur additional expenses to the County. (R6)

Related Recommendations (2)

R6: The Humboldt County Sheriff repair the leaks in the Humboldt County Correctional Facility roof. This repair is to be completed by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #7. (F14) 7 SuperMax Systems: https://www.supermaxsystems.com

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F15: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: The wall-mounted parallel bar exercise equipment at the Humboldt County Correctional Facility needs repair. The torn padded section provides a location to hide contraband and may limit some exercise options. (R7)

Related Recommendations (2)

R7: The Humboldt County Sheriff repair the padded parts of the wall-mounted parallel bar exercise equipment, or replace it with new equipment, by no later than October 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #7. (F15) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff fund the expenses listed in R6 and R7 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. NOTE: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. HUMBOLDT COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE CORONER-PUBLIC ADMINISTRATOR The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Coroner-Public Administrator operates under the authority of the State of California per Penal Code section §830.35. In 2015, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors merged the office of Coroner-Public Administrator with the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office. The Coroner-Public Administrator’s offices, facilities, and storage rooms are located on the ground floor of the Clark Complex at 321 I Street in Eureka. The building is in part of a former hospital addition built about seventy years ago. The hospital moved out in the late 1970’s. Staff The Coroner’s Office staff includes the Chief Coroner, three Deputy Coroner-Public Administrators, volunteer religious clergy, and other volunteers. Community volunteers contribute significant number of hours working at the coroner’s office. Members of the clergy counsel and console families, survivors, and individuals who are faced with death and its uncomfortable circumstances, and who may need to use the services of the Coroner-Public Administrator. Responsibilities California State Law empowers a coroner to investigate the circumstances, manner, and cause of all sudden, violent, or unexpected deaths. California Government Code Section §27491 and following subsections instruct each Sheriff-Coroner to inquire into and determine the circumstances, manner, and cause of death, including but not limited to: • All sudden, violent, or unusual deaths • Unattended deaths (no physician in attendance, no medical history) • Deaths where the deceased has not been seen by a physician for 20 days or more The Public Administrators Office has the legal authority to administer the estate of a deceased person. While an heir or legally designated person can do this, the Public Administrator performs this task when there is no person willing and available to do so. There are published fees and conditions for these services, and for a deceased person with extensive holdings, the Public Administrator will hire lawyers to do the work. There are publicly available County brochures, which explain the Public Administrator’s job, functions, legal responsibilities, fees, and services. For Deputy Coroner-Public Administrators there is a comprehensive policy and procedures manual for the Public Administrator portion of the job. For the Deputy Coroner portion of the job, there is no policy and procedures manual explaining job descriptions and duties. New hires are dependent upon on-the-job training to learn how the Humboldt County Coroner’s Office handles deceased people and their property. While the Coroner’s Office personnel follow published California State and Federal Guidelines, having a policy and procedures manual unique to Humboldt County would be a valuable learning tool for new hires and for established employees to use for continued reference. There are no practicing pathologists in Humboldt County, so Humboldt County hires pathologists from out of the area. These pathologists travel to Eureka when the Coroner’s Office staff determine that the staff need a medical doctor’s expertise. Building and Equipment Besides the reception and office area, there is an autopsy room, clergy office space, evidence storage rooms, and climate-controlled areas for storing human remains. Laboratory equipment includes a fingerprint scanner, which staff use to help identify unidentified bodies. The Grand Jury found that the Coroner’s Office has no meeting or conference space, and the clergy are in a small office. Three deputy Coroners-Public Administrators share a single counter which serves as a desk. The autopsy room is substandard and not in compliance with the current National Association of Medical Examiners Inspection and Accreditation Checklist, section C3n.8 It has one bare plywood counter half-covered with contact paper and has other counters consisting of plastic laminate. In the evidence room we saw a wall partially cut open, revealing exposed wires and electrical junction boxes. Property had been pushed aside to access the area but there was no indication that electrical wall repair work was ongoing. The 2015-2016 Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury found that “the physical conditions of the Coroner-Public Administrator Office are deplorable and represent substandard working conditions for dedicated professionals.” These conditions do not appear to have changed since 2016. NAME Checklist: https://name.memberclicks.net/assets/docs/NAME%20Accreditation%20Checklist%202024%20- %202029.pdf Evidence Storage The Coroner must determine the cause of death. Because some deaths are drug-related, any unidentified substances are stored in a locked room and then later sent out for identification. In addition, the Coroner’s Office takes possession of firearms, and these must be stored securely before they and other crime-scene items are sent to investigators for evidence in criminal cases. Some evidence storage is in a locked room with a single keypad code. Everyone in the Coroner’s Office uses the same key code. As a result, there is no way to track or log who enters. There appear to be two categories of items stored in the Coroner’s Office: crime scene evidence and personal property not involved in a crime scene. For crime scene evidence, staff use an electronic record-keeping system and transfer it to the Sheriff’s evidence facility. For personal property not from a crime scene, staff use a hand-written booklet that resembles a receipt book to log the items in and out. The locks on doors and windows are old and outdated. Coroner staff report a recent break-in. There was some damage to the doorways.

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F16: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: When attending deaths where other people are also present, the Coroner’s Office staff is accompanied by volunteer clergy, who counsel and console traumatized people. This counselling may assist survivors of the deceased during a difficult time.

Related Recommendations (1)

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F17: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: Student interns and community volunteers contribute many hours to the Coroner’s Office, allowing paid staff to focus on other necessary duties. This results in interns obtaining valuable clinical experience, and Humboldt County paying less money from its budget for the Coroner’s office.

Related Recommendations (1)

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F18: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: The Humboldt County Coroner-Public Administrator does not have a Policy and Procedures Manual for the coroner portion of the job that clearly defines job duties, relying instead on on-the-job training practices. These practices can lead to different interpretations of duties, tasks, and responsibilities. (R8)

Related Recommendations (2)

R8: The Humboldt County Sheriff create a policy and procedures manual for the coroner portion of the Coroner-Public Administrator position. This manual is to be written and distributed by December 31, 2024. (F18)

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F19: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: In the autopsy room, there is one bare plywood counter partially covered with contact paper and another with plastic laminate. This can result in contamination of evidence and unsanitary working conditions. (R12)

Related Recommendations (2)

R12: The Humboldt County Sheriff replace all work surfaces in the autopsy room with stainless steel or a similar non-permeable material. This recommendation is to take place by June 30, 2025. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #12. (F19) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R9, R10, R11, and R12 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. SEMPERVIRENS PSYCHIATRIC HEALTH FACILITY The Sempervirens Psychiatric Health Facility (SV), established in 1967, is housed in part of a former hospital built about seventy years ago. Many remodels and repairs have kept it functioning, but senior County staff agree that a new structure is needed. SV is a Medi-Cal and Medicare certified sixteen-bed inpatient facility. which operates twenty-four-hours-a-day, seven- days-a-week. It is part of the Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services, Behavioral Health Branch. Staffing The governing board for Sempervirens is the Joint Conference Committee for Sempervirens (JCC). This board includes two members of the Board of Supervisors. Agendas for meetings include audits, quality of care and contracts, and the need for new facilities.9 Among other duties the JCC provides for the control and use of appropriate physical and financial resources and personnel required to meet the needs of Sempervirens’ patients. As of autumn of 2023, sixteen staff positions out of fifty-nine are vacant: a 27% vacancy rate. At times, the vacant positions are filled by contract workers, who are more expensive than County employees. Hiring professional mental health and nursing positions is a constant challenge. Private behavioral health facilities that offer faster hiring practices, higher wages, and signing bonuses have an advantage. This problem is nationwide. One resource for encouraging placement and retention at Sempervirens is the Health Resources and Services Administration program. Graduates with a Masters of Social Work degree at the California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt can participate in this program to have their student loans partly repaid by working at Sempervirens for a specified time-period.10 No information was available about the success of this program at mental health professional retention. Sempervirens JCC Meeting Documents: https://humboldtgov.org/3517/Sempervirens-JCC-Meeting-Documents 10 National Health Services Corp.: https://nhsc.hrsa.gov/loan-repayment A recent mental health staffing review lists six nursing positions filled by contract nurses and one vacant nursing position. Two clinician positions and five mental health worker positions are vacant. There are no psychiatrists living in Humboldt County who treat patients housed at Sempervirens. Contracted psychiatrists travel to and from Humboldt County, providing twenty- four-hour-a-day, seven-day-a-week coverage. Contracted medical professionals including physicians and psychiatrists are more expensive than those hired directly as SV staff. Patient Care Those in need may voluntarily be admitted to receive inpatient care at Sempervirens. Law enforcement may also transport patients who are detained under the California Welfare and Institutions Code §5150 hold to a local hospital for medical evaluation. Depending on the evaluation, patients may later be transported to Sempervirens for admission. About half of the patients in Sempervirens are placed under temporary or long-term conservatorship. The California court system explains that “Mental health conservatorships are for people with serious mental illness or who need special care. Typically, treatment staff providing care can start the process. A conservatorship must be the least restrictive type of assistance needed to help a person with a developmental disability.”11 The Nursing Scheduling Policy describes and strictly defines minimum requirements for staffing, types of patient evaluations, and decisions pertaining to each patient’s condition. These evaluations are made daily, sometimes more often. During our tour of the facility in the fall of 2023, the five patients we met were young adults. Patients are free to roam about the facility including cafeteria, recreation room, and a secure outside patio area. Daily enrichment activities and times are posted. During our visit, one patient was in crisis. SV staff used crisis intervention skills to manage the situation and prevent escalation. Intake And Discharge Sempervirens’ Admission and Intake Policies and Procedures are specific, covering physical and mental health conditions. These policies and procedures are used to evaluate the physical and psychological condition of patients to be admitted, and the manner of intake. For example, the severity of a patient’s condition is evaluated. The more serious a patient’s condition, the more nursing resources are needed to provide safe care. Patients are assessed frequently to evaluate their needs. Presently about half the patients under treatment require temporary or long-term holds, which leads to extended treatment time for a patient.12 11 San Francisco County Superior Court: https://sf.courts.ca.gov/divisions/probate-court/mental-health- conservatorship 12 Disability Rights California: https://www.disabilityrightsca.org/publications/understanding-the-lanterman-petris- short-lps-act As a last resort to assisting patients experiencing extreme crisis and exhibiting potentially violent behavior, crisis rooms are available. These rooms are designed for patient safety with padded walls and furnishings, including a chair and bed both equipped with soft restraints. Use of these rooms has declined. The practice of crisis intervention skills, such as different voice techniques, music, and medications, is more common now. Beginning in 2022, a new policy called “Level of Observation” requires that all patients be visually observed every 15 minutes. The Behavioral Health Department provides each client with a copy of the Beneficiary Handbook for Mental Health Services. This handbook explains services, patient rights, and how to access services. The handbook was updated in March 2023. Written Evaluations and Discharge Policies are very detailed and complete. Specific forms are used for the various steps including referral to follow up and outpatient programs. Facility On the second floor, across from the cafeteria area, there is a nurses’ station that includes security monitors. There is seating for several staff members, but the station is cramped. During our tour there were nurses and mental health professionals working in this space. We observed that, at times, the security monitors were not being watched because personnel had to attend to other duties. Most of the walls reflect years of a challenging work environment, with faded or damaged paint. Safety improvements and renovations have been completed to help prevent suicides. During our visit we observed that Sempervirens appears to be well-kept. Inspection of Sempervirens Federal and State agencies require that this facility undergo rigorous checks of patient well- being. There is extensive oversight of Sempervirens’ operations and facilities by several monitoring organizations. These include the Sempervirens Governing Board, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), and the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), which administers Medi-Cal. In September 2023, CDPH, on behalf of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), conducted a three day on-site visit and issued a three-year recertification. Some issues regarding data collection and reporting were noted in the inspection, resulting in a Plan of Correction (POC) to remediate these deficiencies.13 In October 2023, again on behalf of the CMS, the CDPH conducted a two-day on-site Life and Safety Code Survey. This survey also resulted in a Plan of Correction (POC). POC’s provide constructive guidance to the facility staff.14 13 CMS Recertification Survey: https://humboldtgov.org/DocumentCenter/View/121717/H--CMS-Three-Year- Recertification-Survey-summary-PDF 14 CMS Life and Safety Code Survey: https://humboldtgov.org/documentcenter/view/121718 The CDHS conducts unannounced on-site triennial reviews. The last one at Sempervirens was conducted over one week in September 2021. A formal letter noting compliance and findings was submitted to the Director of Behavioral Health in January 2022.15

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F20: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: All Humboldt County Coroner-Public Administrators use one shared code to enter the locked evidence and property storage area, leaving no way to track and identify who has entered these areas. This use of only one shared code can lead to questions about a clear chain of custody, potentially compromising investigations. (R9)

Related Recommendations (2)

R9: The Humboldt County Sheriff install a keypad lock to all areas in the Coroner-Public Administrator’s Office that store property or evidence. This keypad lock must track and store the information on all people who access these areas by person, time, and date. This recommendation is to be completed by December 31. 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #12. (F20)

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F21: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: In one evidence room the Grand Jury observed a bare wall with exposed electrical wires and components. These exposed electrical components are at risk of damage and may pose a danger to stored property and human safety. (R11)

Related Recommendations (2)

R11: The Humboldt County Sheriff repair walls in the evidence room to protect exposed electrical components by December 30, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #12. (F21)

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F22: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: The Humboldt County Coroner’s Office does not have a central computerized data system listing personal property. This could lead to a lack of accountability for lost or misplaced property. (R10)

Related Recommendations (2)

R10: The Humboldt County Sheriff develop or purchase a computer software system to inventory and track deceased people’s personal property that is not criminal evidence. This recommendation is to be completed by July 1, 2025. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #12. (F22)

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F23: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: The Sempervirens Psychiatric Health Facility provides a caring behavioral health staff and programs, resulting in a better quality of life for patients in crisis.

Related Recommendations (1)

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F24: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: Sempervirens Psychiatric Health Facility has a serious shortage of staff, resulting in additional stress on existing staff that may affect patient care. (R13)

Related Recommendations (2)

R13: The Department of Health and Human Services fill at least half of the vacant positions at Sempervirens no later than January 1, 2025. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #13. (F24) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors fund the expenses listed in R13 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at its next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. CDHS Triennial Review: https://humboldtgov.org/documentcenter/view/107834 SHERIFF’S WORK ALTERNATIVE PROGRAM The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury visited several locations of the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office including its correctional facilities. Under Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, beginning July 2005, California reorganized the youth and adult correctional agencies, adopting more progressive attitudes when treating people in county jails. Over time, Humboldt County made improvements to the physical environment for inmates and in programs designed to promote skill building, emotional and mental health, and rehabilitation prior to returning to the community. Even prior to this, Humboldt County instituted several programs with the same purpose. One such program is the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program (SWAP). The Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program operates under the Custody Services Division of the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office. It permits selected inmates with fewer than six months of time remaining on their sentence to work off some of that sentence and be physically released from the Humboldt County Correctional Facility in Eureka. This program is an excellent example of how incarceration can become rehabilitation. Facility One SWAP worksite reviewed by the Grand Jury is the Sheriff’s Farm located at 2300 Airport Road in Fortuna. The Farm was established in 1991 and produces beef, pork, and vegetables used to prepare meals for inmates in the Humboldt County Correctional Facility. In 2020, the jail’s kitchen received 11,000 lbs. of vegetables, 4,400 lbs. of meat, and 4,500 eggs. An additional 2,200 lbs. of food was donated to local food banks. Humboldt County’s SWAP program has been in place for 68 years. It is a successful and desirable program for inmates and the County. Inmates and staff at The Farm find the work to be enjoyable and productive. The Farm is open to visitors and holds special events to which the public is invited. SWAP participants must qualify and work at least eight hours a week. Requirements include having 180 days or less of county jail time remaining, having no pending cases, being physically fit to perform manual labor, having reliable transportation, and having a physical address. Inmates convicted of sex-related crimes and some felonies are not eligible. Inmate Benefits SWAP participants work all year taking care of livestock, making repairs, cleaning, maintaining the grounds, preparing the soil, planting, and harvesting. One skilled inmate constructed a large hay barn, partially with donated materials. This donation and others such as animal feed, locally grown fruit, and other items, are examples of how well the farm and SWAP members are appreciated. Under minimal supervision, up to 200 men and women may be in the SWAP program at one time. They benefit from participating because the physical labor to produce food is good exercise. Moreover, instead of returning to jail each night, people can live at home and hold jobs in addition to their farm work. A shift is eight hours. Each eight-hour day worked at the SWAP facility reduces their sentence by one day. Staff Eight deputy positions are allotted to rotate throughout the week with preferably two deputies on duty for eight work hours. However, at present, only four of the positions are filled. Two positions are frozen and two are vacant because of budget constraints. Maintenance The facility is well maintained. SWAP participants are guided and directed by staff and provide all the labor with one exception. Grass is mowed and the hay is baled by an adjacent property owner as a donation. Tools are kept in assigned locations. Each building has a specific purpose. A large building houses pigs in a spacious and well laid-out series of stalls. The facility and operation meet current California animal care laws as per Proposition 12. Some pigs are made available to local 4-H projects. Pigs and cattle at the Farm are regularly checked by veterinarians to assure that the pork and beef will qualify for human consumption. Cattle are pastured on the property. Livestock is not killed or butchered on site. There are two drainage ponds on the premises. One is surrounded by a four-foot-high wooden fence. The other has an unsupported wire surrounding it. This does not provide adequate protection to prevent a visitor or SWAP worker falling into the pond.

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F25: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program grounds are orderly and generally well-maintained with minimal inmate supervision needed. This results in a good work environment where skills learned by inmates can translate into life skills including farming and construction.

Related Recommendations (1)

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F26: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program produces meat and vegetables for jail meals thus reducing food costs for the Humboldt County Correctional Facility.

Related Recommendations (1)

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F27: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program’s Farm invites volunteers to assist. This helps save money and allows the facility to be accepted by neighborhood residents.

Related Recommendations (1)

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F28: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program has a drainage pond several feet below the walking area with minimal fencing between the two. Without adequate fencing to secure this drainage pond, a visitor, officer, or inmate could fall into the pond. (R14)

Related Recommendations (2)

R14: The Humboldt County Sheriff install a secure fence with a locked gate around the drainage pond by no later than July 30, 2025. For funding recommendations see the wording below

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.

F29: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that: The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program is short-staffed, requiring overtime for deputies. There are times when only one deputy is on duty. This can cause exhaustion and stress. (R15)

Related Recommendations (1)

R15: The Humboldt County Sheriff ensure that a minimum of six filled Sheriff’s Deputy positions are assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program Farm by December 31, 2024. For funding recommendations see the wording below Recommendation #15. (F29) Funding Recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff coordinate with the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the expenses listed in R14 and R15 from existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Sheriff and the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, at their next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies. Note: Specific requirements for responding to findings and recommendations, as well as who is to respond, are listed at the end of this report. RESPONSES Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, each entity or individual named below must respond to the enumerated Findings and Recommendations within specific statutory guidelines. Responses to findings shall be either: • The respondent agrees with the finding, or; • The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to recommendations shall be either: • The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action, or; • The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation, or; • The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency where appliable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of the publication of the Grand Jury report, or; • The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation, therefor. REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 90 DAYS The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors: (Findings 1-5, 9-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 4-15) REQUIRED RESPONSES WITHIN 60 DAYS The Humboldt County Sheriff (Findings 1-5, 1-22, 25-29) (Recommendations 1-2, 6-12, 14-15) INVITED RESPONSES The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (Findings 23-24) (Recommendation 13) The Humboldt County Probation Department (Findings 9-13) (Recommendations 4-5) California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (Findings 6-8) (Recommendation 3) Responses are to be sent to: The Honorable Judge Kelly L. Neel Humboldt County Superior Court 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.