Condition of Orange County Jails*

Both the OCSD and CEO Risk Management perform risk management activities related to jail claims and lawsuits. Response: Disagrees partially with the finding. Orange County Sheriff's Department Risk Management (OCSD RM) is utilized by County Executive Office Risk Management (CEO RM) to gather information for evaluation of liability exposure concerning claims and lawsuits filed against the County relative to jail operations. The role of OCSD RM is to obtain copies of reports, documents, photographs, video/audiotapes and provide the raw materials to CEO RM to be reviewed in determining the validity of a claim that has been filed against the OCSD or the County. OCSD RM is not tasked with conducting independent investigations into claims that have been filed. They do not establish claim reserves, negotiate settlements or manage outside contracted legal counsel. They have no role in the claims adjusting process. OCSD RM is utilized by CEO RM to gather information as needed to respond to discovery requests during the course of litigation. OCSD RM is the central point established by the Sheriff's Department for CEO RM to obtain information concerning policies, procedures, and other materials to assist in defending lawsuits. CEO RM personnel are trained to handle claims and litigation. While OCSD RM personnel are very experienced and provide valuable input relative to law enforcement issues, their role is not focused on dealing with claims and lawsuits filed against the department.

The Board of Supervisors has not authorized the Musick expansion project and there is no alternative proposal. Video visitations and arraignment were features of the expansion project. Response: Agrees with the finding. While video arraignment was part of the expansion plan, modifications have already been made to the existing Musick Facility to incorporate video arraignment. ¥

The only location for jail expansion in Orange County is the Musick facility. Response: Agrees with the finding. Currently, the only location under consideration for jail expansion in Orange County is the Musick facility. While the County has researched other options, the Musick facility is the most viable option.

When inmates are interviewed at the IRC medical screening area there is no privacy provided and this could result in reluctance to reveal relevant personal information. Response: Agrees with the finding. HCA will work with the Orange County Sheriff's Department to determine the best way to address this situation within current budget constraints.

An inmate is identified by wristband or module card. Other than color, the only information on the card or wristband is first and last name and booking number. This is grossly deficient and can lead to significant medical, safety or legal problems. Response: Agrees with the finding. HCA agrees that improved wrist bands, including bar coding, would be helpful in reducing the risk of errors related to medical needs and treatment.

The OIR reports to the Board of Supervisors. It was created to provide independent oversight regarding incidents and allegations of law enforcement misconduct. The overall effectiveness of this additional oversight organization has yet to be determined. Response: Agrees with the finding. The Board of Supervisors continues to monitor the OIR for overall effectiveness. Responses to Recommendations: R.2, R.3, R.4, R.6, R.11, R.14 and R.15 A detailed study should be conducted to determine whether risk management