Human Trafficking in Santa Cruz County Voices Unheard, Signs Unseen

Chief Deputy, Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office

August 12, 2024 • 34 pages • 21 responses • Score: 0 (+0, 21, 0) View Details ▾

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21 responses to findings and recommendations

F2

The potential passage of AB 379 may provide grants for the District Attorney’s Office for the prosecution of traffickers and grants for community-based organizations for direct services and victim outreach. This could provide the resources necessary to ultimately reduce human trafficking and reduce the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The failure of Wellpath to implement a comprehensive discharge plan causes inmates to be released without community connection to medical treatment and medication. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff's Office disagrees with this finding for the following reasons: - A "comprehensive discharge plan" is the responsibility of more than the contracted medical provider (Wellpath or NaphCare). This plan would involve Probation, Courts, community partners, the Sheriff's Office, and the contracted medical provider to ...

R2

The Program Manager of Family & Child Services should coordinate with Monterey and San Benito County peers for the purpose of reconvening the tri-county Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children steering committee. This team would meet regularly to review and track intercounty human trafficking cases and activity in our region and participate in regional prevention activities. This should be completed by December 31, 2025. (F3)

Response: Implemented

Due: December 31, 2025 Scheduled: within 90 days Score: 0

. By the end of calendar year 2024, the Grand Jury recommends the Sheriff instruct Wellpath to improve the medical discharge processes for better continuity of care. (F1, F2) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) X_ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: The Sheriff's Office disagreed with the supporting findings for this recommend...

F3

The tri-county CSEC steering committee for the prevention of human trafficking has not met for a full year as of the publication of this report. Therefore, there is no active body that could potentially monitor trafficking cases across the tri-county area.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The failure of the Sheriff's jail staff to properly address inmates' mental illness crises has caused mentally disabled inmates to be held in Safety Cells for excessively long periods. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff's Office disagrees with this finding for the following reasons: - Dr. Lee's recent 2024 Title 15 inspection notes that we were in compliance with the use of Safety Cells, meaning we were utilizing them appropriately. - The Sheriff's Office works with our contracted Medical and Mental Health ...

R3

The Program Manager of County Family & Child Services should resume and maintain monthly multidisciplinary team meetings, required as a condition of receiving Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children funding, to review ongoing human trafficking cases and discuss other potential cases involving high-risk youth. This should commence by August 31, 2025. (F4)

Response: Implemented

Due: August 31, 2025 Scheduled: within 90 days Score: 0

. By the end of calendar year 2024, the Grand Jury recommends the Sheriff retrain staff about the proper use of Safety Cells according to Title 15 section 1055 and the Sheriff's policy and procedures manual. (F3, F4, F5) _X HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: The Sheriff's Office disagreed w...

F4

The County Family & Child Services CSEC-required monthly multidisciplinary team meetings have not been held since November 2023, despite biennial reporting otherwise to the State Department of Social Services. Therefore, known cases of human trafficking have not been properly overseen.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The improper use of Safety Cells by the Sheriff's jail staff to isolate inmates who are greatly in need of mental health care and/or have made suicidal statements causes a violation of required procedure. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff's Office disagrees with this finding for the following reasons: - The Sheriff's Office does not improperly use Safety Cells. - Safety Cells are used for individuals that are at risk for self-harm, a risk of harm to others, or damaging property to the point they could be a ...

R4

Each law enforcement agency in Santa Cruz County, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should require law enforcement officers to receive an annual human trafficking awareness training, preferably led by human trafficking survivors. This should commence by December 31, 2025. (F12)

Response: Implemented

Due: December 31, 2025 Scheduled: within 90 days Score: 0

. By the end of calendar year 2024, the Grand Jury recommends the Sheriff retrain staff with the proper use of a 5150 hold and the transfer of inmates to a mental health facility according to Title 15 and the Sheriff's policy and procedures manual. (F6) _X HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe:...

F5

Staff and administration of the County Office of Education report they are not adequately trained and do not receive regular training regarding human trafficking as required by AB 1227. This is in spite of the fact that free training is available from local providers that could bring COE into compliance if enforced. This deficiency can lead to a failure in the staff’s ability to identify cases of trafficking.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The use of Safety Cells for punishment has resulted in violations of Title 15 section 1055 and the Sheriff's Policy and Procedures Manual policy 516.2. This may expose the Sheriff's department to lawsuits. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff's Office disagrees with this finding for the following reasons: - Dr. Lee's recent 2024 Title 15 Inspection specifically noted in the comments "Safety Cell is not used for punishment" and we were found to be in compliance with Safety Cell use. - The Sheriff's Office is u...

R5

The County Office of Education should come into compliance with AB 1227, providing human trafficking-related training, led by survivors, to students and staff as required. This should be completed by February 28, 2026. (F5)

Response: Implemented

Due: February 28, 2026 Scheduled: within 90 days Score: 0

. By the end of the calendar year 2024, the Grand Jury recommends the Sheriff train staff on how to transfer suicidal inmates to an LPS facility for mental health care. (F7) _X HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: The Sheriff's Office disagreed with the supporting finding for this recommendat...

F6

Very few businesses in Santa Cruz County are in compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. This results in the reduction of community awareness of the problem and the likelihood that trafficking victims will be able to reach out for help.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The practice of excluding mentally ill patients from 5150 hold and transfer until discharge results in a violation of both Title 15 and Sheriff's Policies and Procedures manual policy 516.2. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff's Office disagrees with this finding for the following reasons: - Dr. Lee's recent 2024 Title 15 inspection notes that we were in compliance with all regulations related to this topic. Furthermore, we passed all Title 15 inspections by the BSCC. - To release an individual to an LPS fac...

R6

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6)

Response: Implemented

Due: June 30, 2026 Scheduled: within 90 days Score: 0

. By the end of calendar year 2024, the Grand Jury recommends the Sheriff direct the CIT team to not withhold a 5150 hold and make a transfer until release because this is not proper or best practice for inmates in need of mental health care. (F8) _X HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: The S...

F7

Existing human trafficking signs at farm worker contractor sites are not readily accessible to farm workers and are in poor condition. This can result in farm workers being unaware of available resources and an inability to reach out for help.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The failure of Jail administrators to transfer inmates with suicidal ideation or in a mental health crisis to an out-of-county LPS facility adversely impacts inmate mental health care. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff's Office disagrees with this finding for the following reasons: - Dr. Lee's recent 2024 Title 15 inspection noted that we were in compliant with all regulations related to this topic. - Incarcerated persons with suicidal ideation are placed in safety cells where the ability to harm themselve...

R7

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should require that county-specific human trafficking awareness and support signs include at least one 24/7 local hotline number, and staff should collaborate with local non-profits providing support to human trafficking victims to develop an effective sign for countywide posting and distribution. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F10, F11)

Response: Implemented

Due: June 30, 2026 Scheduled: within 90 days Score: 0

. By the end of calendar year 2024, the Grand Jury recommends the Sheriff develop a plan to transfer all inmates in mental health crises to LPS facilities and budget the extra cost of transferring patients out of the county. (F9, F10) _X HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: The Sheriff's Offi...

F8

The mix of County and local municipal ordinances regarding the licensing and inspection of massage businesses varies, possibly causing confusion and inconsistent enforcement of existing regulations.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The failure of the Crisis Intervention Team to issue a 5150 hold and transfer before an inmate is discharged adversely impacts inmate mental health care. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff's Office disagrees with this finding for the following reasons: - Dr. Lee's recent 2024 Title 15 inspection noted that we were compliant with all regulations related to this topic. - The Sheriff's Office does work with the Courts and our community partners to coordinate care of individuals in crisis and transfer them to an...

R8

The Santa Cruz County Agricultural Commissioner should come into compliance with SB 1193 by ensuring that existing human trafficking signs are refreshed annually. In addition, it should require all farm labor contractors to include the SB 1193 sign in employee handbooks for easy accessibility. A review for compliance should be done on an annual basis. This should commence by September 30, 2025. (F7)

Response: Implemented

Due: September 30, 2025 Scheduled: within 90 days Score: 0

. By the end of calendar year 2024, the Grand Jury recommends the Sheriff reopen closed units and move all qualified inmates to Rountree Medium Security and the Minimum Security Rehabilitation and Reentry unit. (F11) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - _X summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: The Sheriff's Office disagreed with ...

F9

Annual inspections are required of massage businesses in jurisdictions with massage business ordinances, but inspections are generally not being conducted. This can result in undetected human trafficking activity.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The practice of placement in Administrative Separation (solitary confinement) causes inmates to suffer mental health problems including, but not limited to, anxiety, insomnia, paranoia, aggression, and depression. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff's Office disagrees with this finding for the following reasons: - The Sheriff's Office understands that Administrative Separation can have a negative impact on incarcerated persons. - Placing some of these individuals that are in Administrative Separation around o...

R9

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt a countywide ordinance regulating the licensing, employee certification, and inspection requirements for massage businesses consistent with California Massage Therapy Council certification and licensing requirements. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F8)

Response: Implemented

Due: June 30, 2026 Scheduled: within 90 days Score: 0

. By the end of calendar year 2024, the Grand Jury recommends the Sheriff develop a comprehensive plan to increase the number of programs that steer inmates towards reentry into the community with new job skills development, education, work release and transitional programs. (F12) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) _X WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanat...

F10

Calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline on existing signs have unacceptably long wait times and can result in a lost opportunity to assist human trafficking victims.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The failure of Jail administrators to transfer Inmates who are suffering from mental health crises symptoms to an LPS Facility adversely impacts inmate mental health care. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff's Office disagrees with this finding for the following reasons: - Dr. Lee's recent 2024 Title 15 inspection noted that we were compliant with all regulations related to this topic. - The Sheriff's Office routinely transfers incarcerated individuals that are in acute crisis to an LPS facility. - Despite a ...

R10

Local law enforcement agencies, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should enforce massage business licensing, certification, and inspection requirements. This should include compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. Enforcement of existing ordinances should commence by September 30, 2025. However, if/when the Board of Supervisors agrees to the Jury’s recommendation to ad...

Response: Implemented

Due: September 30, 2025 Scheduled: within 90 days Score: 0

. By the end of fiscal year 2024-2025, the Grand Jury recommends the Sheriff develop a plan to implement more Jail diversion programs (like Stepping Up) that steer the Mentally Ill away from jail and to the help they need. (F13) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) _X WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: The Sheriff's Office sup...

F11

Local nonprofit organizations have 24/7 hotline numbers that are staffed, and calls can be answered immediately or within minutes, greatly increasing the likelihood of contacting victims and providing assistance in real time.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. Opening the closed unit at Rountree and increasing the number of re-entry programs would result in better conditions for inmates and less stress for the correctional officers. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff's Office disagrees with this finding for the following reasons: - The Sheriff's Office intends to reopen the closed unit at Rountree when staffing improves. - Sheriff's Office Correctional Officers have been on Mandatory Overtime (MOT) for over 7 years now. - If the Sheriff's Office opened the closed ...

F12

There has been a lack of human trafficking presentations to law enforcement. Local law enforcement jurisdictions could request the no-cost training that is available from local human trafficking service providers. This can lead to officers learning to identify human trafficking victims and reduce further victim trauma.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. Increasing the number of programs that focus on rehabilitation, education, and restorative justice to prepare for reentry would show positive improvement to public safety and a reduction in recidivism for reentering inmates. _X AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff's Office is committed to programming for our incarcerated population. Our Programs division was recently recognized as a "mentor site" by the Bureau of Justice Administration (BJA) for its work in this field. This recognition resulted in our Programs st...

F13

Law enforcement task forces focused solely on human trafficking are very effective methods of detecting and preventing human trafficking activities. Such task forces could increase the rate of interdiction and the successful prosecution of human trafficking cases.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. Jail programs like "Stepping Up" steers the mentally ill to community-based mental health care, reducing the number of mentally ill inmates in jail. __ AGREE _X PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff's Office is supportive of programs that reduce the number of mentally ill individuals incarcerated. Further research of the Stepping Up program would be required to fully agree with this statement. We Can Do Better with Our Jails! Due by August 12, 2024 Page 16 of 33 F14. The current practice of reviewing inmate classification...

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors

September 10, 2024 • 30 pages • 20 responses • Score: 0 (+0, 20, 0) View Details ▾

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20 responses to findings and recommendations

F2

The potential passage of AB 379 may provide grants for the District Attorney’s Office for the prosecution of traffickers and grants for community-based organizations for direct services and victim outreach. This could provide the resources necessary to ultimately reduce human trafficking and reduce the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The Personnel Department recruiter training does not provide recruiter skills to the hiring managers necessary in today's job market. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): A recruitment is a collaborative process between Personnel Department recruiters and department hiring managers. Personnel Department recruiters handle key tasks, while hiring managers provide operational expertise and specialized outreach based on their networks and industry connections. Together, Personnel recruiters and departmental hiring managers a...

R2

The Program Manager of Family & Child Services should coordinate with Monterey and San Benito County peers for the purpose of reconvening the tri-county Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children steering committee. This team would meet regularly to review and track intercounty human trafficking cases and activity in our region and participate in regional prevention activities. This should be completed by December 31, 2025. (F3)

Response: Implemented

Score: 0

. The Grand Jury recommends that by December 31, 2024, the Personnel Department update recruitment and hiring procedures. For example, requiring the updating of job postings on a regular basis in order to improve search engine visibility. (F3, F6, F7) _X_ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: ...

F3

The tri-county CSEC steering committee for the prevention of human trafficking has not met for a full year as of the publication of this report. Therefore, there is no active body that could potentially monitor trafficking cases across the tri-county area.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. Outdated personnel "candidate pool" rules and Civil Service recruiting policies inadvertently force long term vacancies for supervisory and credentialed positions. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): In June 2023, Personnel implemented a significant Civil Service change, shifting from the "rule of 10" to the "rule of the list," allowing all candidates to be forwarded to hiring managers in rank order for interviews. This improvement is designed to reduce delays and ensure a more flexible and responsive hiring process. Ne...

R3

The Program Manager of County Family & Child Services should resume and maintain monthly multidisciplinary team meetings, required as a condition of receiving Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children funding, to review ongoing human trafficking cases and discuss other potential cases involving high-risk youth. This should commence by August 31, 2025. (F4)

Response: Implemented

Score: 0

. The Grand Jury recommends that by December 31, 2024, the Personnel Department begin publishing per-position candidate pool policies and hiring results on a semi-annual basis. (F3, F6, F7) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) _X_ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: The Personnel Department currently provides hiring activity an...

F4

The County Family & Child Services CSEC-required monthly multidisciplinary team meetings have not been held since November 2023, despite biennial reporting otherwise to the State Department of Social Services. Therefore, known cases of human trafficking have not been properly overseen.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. By not sending candidates for difficult to fill positions directly to hiring managers the chances of hiring well qualified candidates are reduced. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): For many difficult-to-recruit positions, such as Licensed Clinic Physicians and Psychiatrists, systems are already in place for rapid processing. Qualified applicants are forwarded to hiring managers within 24 hours of receipt, allowing immediate screening and expedited interviews. The implementation of Workday will further support this pro...

R4

Each law enforcement agency in Santa Cruz County, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should require law enforcement officers to receive an annual human trafficking awareness training, preferably led by human trafficking survivors. This should commence by December 31, 2025. (F12)

Response: Implemented

Score: 0

. The Grand Jury recommends that by December 31, 2024, the Personnel Department, in collaboration with HSA, HSD and Public Works, embrace continuous improvement and publish a skills and advancement plan to accelerate promotion from within, including budget requirements and goals. (F8, F9) _X_ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response...

F5

Staff and administration of the County Office of Education report they are not adequately trained and do not receive regular training regarding human trafficking as required by AB 1227. This is in spite of the fact that free training is available from local providers that could bring COE into compliance if enforced. This deficiency can lead to a failure in the staff’s ability to identify cases of trafficking.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. Most county departments lack dedicated hiring managers leading to overloaded administrators. __ AGREE _X_ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): All departments have hiring managers, supported by administrative staff. Major departments such as the Health Services Agency (HSA), Human Services Department (HSD), Sheriff's Office, and Community Development and Infrastructure Division of Public Works (DPW) have dedicated recruiting analysts and personnel technicians. The implementation of Workday will further alleviate administrative burden...

R5

The County Office of Education should come into compliance with AB 1227, providing human trafficking-related training, led by survivors, to students and staff as required. This should be completed by February 28, 2026. (F5)

Response: Implemented

Score: 0

. The Grand Jury recommends that by December 31, 2024, the Personnel Department publish a cost/benefit analysis comparing their current approach with that offered by integrated HR solutions. (F10, F11) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) _X_ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: The Personnel Department already utilizes integrat...

F6

Very few businesses in Santa Cruz County are in compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. This results in the reduction of community awareness of the problem and the likelihood that trafficking victims will be able to reach out for help.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The Personnel Department has not changed policies and procedures in the face of fewer candidates applying for County positions resulting in additional vacancies and slower recruitment and hiring processes. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Recent updates include changing Civil Service Rules from a "rule of 10" to a "rule of the list" and reducing the interview contact notice period from 5 days to 3 days. Additionally, difficult-to-fill positions are now expedited. As soon as they are received, applications are forward...

R6

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6)

Response: Implemented

Score: 0

. The Grand Jury recommends that by December 31, 2024, the Personnel Department develop a plan detailing how they will solicit and evaluate employee recommendations that could help reduce the backlog of difficult to fill positions. (F6, F12) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) X__ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: Employees ...

F7

Existing human trafficking signs at farm worker contractor sites are not readily accessible to farm workers and are in poor condition. This can result in farm workers being unaware of available resources and an inability to reach out for help.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The Personnel Department's website advertising continuous open positions without regular updates makes it very difficult for candidates to find opportunities on search engines because the information is stale and not up to date. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Continuous recruitments, which do not have final filing dates, are updated regularly. For difficult-to-fill positions, updates include changes to salary information and adding final filing dates as a marketing strategy to encourage candidates to apply sooner. ...

R7

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should require that county-specific human trafficking awareness and support signs include at least one 24/7 local hotline number, and staff should collaborate with local non-profits providing support to human trafficking victims to develop an effective sign for countywide posting and distribution. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F10, F11)

Response: Implemented

Score: 0

. The Grand Jury recommends that by December 31, 2024, the Personnel Department publicly document how they have engaged external expertise which would likely improve hiring and promoting processes. (F6, F12) _X_ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: In 2019, the Personnel Department engaged wi...

F8

The mix of County and local municipal ordinances regarding the licensing and inspection of massage businesses varies, possibly causing confusion and inconsistent enforcement of existing regulations.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. Continuous improvement for promoting existing employees in departments with difficult to fill positions can help to maintain effective staffing levels. __ AGREE _X_ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Departments are encouraged to promote internally when a qualified candidate is available. However, to ensure a fair and equitable recruitment process, the focus remains on selecting the best-qualified candidate based on the entire hiring process, including the application, examination, interview, and reference checks. Hiring managers h...

R8

The Santa Cruz County Agricultural Commissioner should come into compliance with SB 1193 by ensuring that existing human trafficking signs are refreshed annually. In addition, it should require all farm labor contractors to include the SB 1193 sign in employee handbooks for easy accessibility. A review for compliance should be done on an annual basis. This should commence by September 30, 2025. (F7)

Response: Implemented

Score: 0

. The Grand Jury recommends that by December 31, 2024, and annually thereafter, the Personnel Department conduct a salary comparison study based on nearby counties. It is recommended that this study include counties which have routinely recruited Santa Cruz County employees and residents. (F6, F13, F14) _X_ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Re...

F9

Annual inspections are required of massage businesses in jurisdictions with massage business ordinances, but inspections are generally not being conducted. This can result in undetected human trafficking activity.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. Promoting employees within departments with many difficult to fill positions can limit the damage caused by attrition, especially at more senior levels. __ AGREE _X_ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Departments have the flexibility to open recruitments to both non-County employees and internal candidates. Even when recruitments are open to external candidates, departments can request promotional-only lists if they prefer to prioritize internal candidates. We agree that recruitment tools to cultivate a promotional environment is i...

R9

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt a countywide ordinance regulating the licensing, employee certification, and inspection requirements for massage businesses consistent with California Massage Therapy Council certification and licensing requirements. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F8)

Response: Implemented

Score: 0

. The Grand Jury recommends that by December 31, 2024, the Personnel Department post a public dashboard, based on real time data, to include timeto-hire and vacancy rates for difficult to fill positions in County departments. (F15, F16, F17) _X_ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) _X_ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: The Perso...

F10

Calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline on existing signs have unacceptably long wait times and can result in a lost opportunity to assist human trafficking victims.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): In June 2023, Personnel implemented a significant Civil Service change, shifting from the "rule of 10" to the "rule of the list," allowing all candidates to be forwarded to hiring managers in rank order for interviews.

F11

Local nonprofit organizations have 24/7 hotline numbers that are staffed, and calls can be answered immediately or within minutes, greatly increasing the likelihood of contacting victims and providing assistance in real time.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The time required for complex paper processes steals time from creative recruitment and ongoing contact with candidates. __ AGREE X PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Personnel Department continuously seeks ways to streamline and improve processes, including reducing the reliance on paper-based workflows. While there are ongoing opportunities for improvement, some departments already have effective systems in place that allow them to make quick hires despite the existing processes. The transition to Workday will eliminate much ...

F12

There has been a lack of human trafficking presentations to law enforcement. Local law enforcement jurisdictions could request the no-cost training that is available from local human trafficking service providers. This can lead to officers learning to identify human trafficking victims and reduce further victim trauma.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. Despite the finding in F9, having leadership in Personnel Department positions filled by long-time employees that have spent most of their career in the department has led to limited acceptance of ideas that have worked elsewhere in hiring for difficult to fill positions. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Leadership consistently promotes and implements innovative recruitment strategies for difficult-to-fill positions, such as hosting information sessions, organizing annual career fairs, offering new hiring and retenti...

F13

Law enforcement task forces focused solely on human trafficking are very effective methods of detecting and preventing human trafficking activities. Such task forces could increase the rate of interdiction and the successful prosecution of human trafficking cases.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The 8-county salary comparison in place since 2002 is no longer a useful benchmark for wages and salaries given the high cost of living in Santa Cruz County resulting in many vacancies. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The 8-county salary comparison remains a valuable tool as it considers total compensation, including county retirement contributions, base salary, FICA, cash compensation, and contributions for health, dental, life, vision, and long-term disability benefits. These comprehensive comparisons provide a we...

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors

September 10, 2024 • 17 pages • 23 responses • Score: 0 (+0, 9, 0) View Details ▾

PDF

23 responses to findings and recommendations

F1

There is currently no consolidated data being collected on Santa Cruz County human trafficking cases. This causes an understatement of the problem and makes it difficult for stakeholders to obtain additional funding.

Response: Unknown Score: 0

R1

The Department of Human Services should designate a qualified staff member to take the lead in forming a countywide human trafficking coalition, including the District Attorney and the Sheriff’s Office. Members should include stakeholders discussed in this report who are involved in the prevention and interdiction of human trafficking. The focus should include the consolidation of human trafficking data and the procurement of additional funds, potentially to fund law enforcement task forces. Thi...

Response: Unknown

Score: 0

F2

The potential passage of AB 379 may provide grants for the District Attorney’s Office for the prosecution of traffickers and grants for community-based organizations for direct services and victim outreach. This could provide the resources necessary to ultimately reduce human trafficking and reduce the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The lack of readily available CPS data metrics accessible on the Santa Cruz County website can lead to perceptions based on individual experiences. Perception becomes reality if data is not provided which can lead to public distrust of the system. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): HSD disagrees with this assertion. The California Child Welfare Indicators Project "CCWIP" is a joint website and trusted and reliable source from the UC Berkeley School of Social Welfare and the California Department of Social Services (CDS...

R2

The Program Manager of Family & Child Services should coordinate with Monterey and San Benito County peers for the purpose of reconvening the tri-county Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children steering committee. This team would meet regularly to review and track intercounty human trafficking cases and activity in our region and participate in regional prevention activities. This should be completed by December 31, 2025. (F3)

Response: Implemented

Score: 0

. The Grand Jury recommends that CPS publish outcome based metrics, such as number of children moved to Resource Families, number of Resource Families available in the County, number of successful and failed reunifications, and identify success metrics for children under care, on an annual basis on their website to improve transparency by December 31, 2024. (F2, F3, F6) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (no...

F3

The tri-county CSEC steering committee for the prevention of human trafficking has not met for a full year as of the publication of this report. Therefore, there is no active body that could potentially monitor trafficking cases across the tri-county area.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. Lots of data is available on the California Welfare Indicators Project maintained by University of California for the whole state of California for each county. It is hard to sift through and find relevant data for Santa Cruz County. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): HSD disagrees with this assertion. The data on the UC Berkeley website is as comprehensive as it needs to be, given the utility of the site by multiple stakeholders. Technical assistance is available to the public for navigation through the website, to as...

R3

The Program Manager of County Family & Child Services should resume and maintain monthly multidisciplinary team meetings, required as a condition of receiving Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children funding, to review ongoing human trafficking cases and discuss other potential cases involving high-risk youth. This should commence by August 31, 2025. (F4)

Response: Implemented

Score: 0

. The Grand Jury recommends that CPS create and publish the complaint process. This published process should include a supervisor not vested in the outcome who can review the complaints. This process and the accompanying metrics like number of complaints and resolution times should be made available to the public by December 31, 2024. (F4) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe _X_ (not to exceed six months) __ WIL...

F4

The County Family & Child Services CSEC-required monthly multidisciplinary team meetings have not been held since November 2023, despite biennial reporting otherwise to the State Department of Social Services. Therefore, known cases of human trafficking have not been properly overseen.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. There is no formal complaint process. You can lodge a complaint only with your social worker. When the complainant is not happy with the resolution, complaints are lodged with the Grand Jury. This is ineffective and results in a lack of accountability or follow up on the complaint. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): HSD disagrees with this assertion but understands that the child welfare system is complex, so it is not always clear as to what avenue is available to express concerns about a situation formally. FCS Divis...

R4

Each law enforcement agency in Santa Cruz County, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should require law enforcement officers to receive an annual human trafficking awareness training, preferably led by human trafficking survivors. This should commence by December 31, 2025. (F12)

Response: Implemented

Score: 0

. The Grand Jury recommends that the County Board of Supervisors establish a Child Welfare Oversight board and an Inspector General similar to what the 2002-2003 Grand Jury recommended. This could help resolve bias, impropriety and undue influence complaints and will help provide transparency and increase trust in the CPS process. The Grand Jury recommends that the planning for this should start by December 31, 2024, with the board fully implemented six months after the planning is finished. (F4, F5) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL B...

F5

Staff and administration of the County Office of Education report they are not adequately trained and do not receive regular training regarding human trafficking as required by AB 1227. This is in spite of the fact that free training is available from local providers that could bring COE into compliance if enforced. This deficiency can lead to a failure in the staff’s ability to identify cases of trafficking.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. Child Family Team members often dispute the accuracy of "official" meeting notes taken by the attending CPS Social Workers, leading to lack of trust between team members. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _x_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): HSD disagrees with this assertion. Child and Family Team (CFT) meetings are facilitated by professional staff who are trained and skilled in using inclusive and strength-based approaches to identify the needs and services to support a child and/or family. The assigned Child Protective Services (CPS) social workers ar...

R5

The County Office of Education should come into compliance with AB 1227, providing human trafficking-related training, led by survivors, to students and staff as required. This should be completed by February 28, 2026. (F5)

Response: Implemented

Score: 0

. The Grand Jury recommends that the CPS department begin to record the Child Family Team meetings by the end of December 31, 2024. (F5) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) _X_ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: This recommendation will not be implemented, as doing so would constitute a violation of several laws. Under Califo...

F6

Very few businesses in Santa Cruz County are in compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. This results in the reduction of community awareness of the problem and the likelihood that trafficking victims will be able to reach out for help.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The lack of data makes it difficult to determine whether bias is present either to Resource Families or Birth Families to the detriment of the child. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): HSD disagrees with this assertion, as it is unclear what data is believed to be definitive in determining whether bias is present to either Resource Families or to Birth Families to the detriment of any child. There are many complicating factors related to a child's experience in foster care and a child's return to their home of origin. ...

R6

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6)

Response: Unknown

Score: 0

F7

Existing human trafficking signs at farm worker contractor sites are not readily accessible to farm workers and are in poor condition. This can result in farm workers being unaware of available resources and an inability to reach out for help.

Response: Unknown Score: 0

R7

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should require that county-specific human trafficking awareness and support signs include at least one 24/7 local hotline number, and staff should collaborate with local non-profits providing support to human trafficking victims to develop an effective sign for countywide posting and distribution. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F10, F11)

Response: Unknown

Score: 0

F8

The mix of County and local municipal ordinances regarding the licensing and inspection of massage businesses varies, possibly causing confusion and inconsistent enforcement of existing regulations.

Response: Unknown Score: 0

R8

The Santa Cruz County Agricultural Commissioner should come into compliance with SB 1193 by ensuring that existing human trafficking signs are refreshed annually. In addition, it should require all farm labor contractors to include the SB 1193 sign in employee handbooks for easy accessibility. A review for compliance should be done on an annual basis. This should commence by September 30, 2025. (F7)

Response: Unknown

Score: 0

F9

Annual inspections are required of massage businesses in jurisdictions with massage business ordinances, but inspections are generally not being conducted. This can result in undetected human trafficking activity.

Response: Unknown Score: 0

R9

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt a countywide ordinance regulating the licensing, employee certification, and inspection requirements for massage businesses consistent with California Massage Therapy Council certification and licensing requirements. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F8)

Response: Unknown

Score: 0

F10

Calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline on existing signs have unacceptably long wait times and can result in a lost opportunity to assist human trafficking victims.

Response: Unknown Score: 0

R10

Local law enforcement agencies, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should enforce massage business licensing, certification, and inspection requirements. This should include compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. Enforcement of existing ordinances should commence by September 30, 2025. However, if/when the Board of Supervisors agrees to the Jury’s recommendation to ad...

Response: Unknown

Score: 0

F11

Local nonprofit organizations have 24/7 hotline numbers that are staffed, and calls can be answered immediately or within minutes, greatly increasing the likelihood of contacting victims and providing assistance in real time.

Response: Unknown Score: 0

F12

There has been a lack of human trafficking presentations to law enforcement. Local law enforcement jurisdictions could request the no-cost training that is available from local human trafficking service providers. This can lead to officers learning to identify human trafficking victims and reduce further victim trauma.

Response: Unknown Score: 0

F13

Law enforcement task forces focused solely on human trafficking are very effective methods of detecting and preventing human trafficking activities. Such task forces could increase the rate of interdiction and the successful prosecution of human trafficking cases.

Response: Unknown Score: 0

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors

September 10, 2024 • 14 pages • 23 responses • Score: 0 (+0, 8, 0) View Details ▾

PDF

23 responses to findings and recommendations

F1

There is currently no consolidated data being collected on Santa Cruz County human trafficking cases. This causes an understatement of the problem and makes it difficult for stakeholders to obtain additional funding.

Response: Unknown Score: 0

R1

The Department of Human Services should designate a qualified staff member to take the lead in forming a countywide human trafficking coalition, including the District Attorney and the Sheriff’s Office. Members should include stakeholders discussed in this report who are involved in the prevention and interdiction of human trafficking. The focus should include the consolidation of human trafficking data and the procurement of additional funds, potentially to fund law enforcement task forces. Thi...

Response: Unknown

Score: 0

F2

The potential passage of AB 379 may provide grants for the District Attorney’s Office for the prosecution of traffickers and grants for community-based organizations for direct services and victim outreach. This could provide the resources necessary to ultimately reduce human trafficking and reduce the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The Long-term Recovery Group which assisted CZU fire and other disaster victims with case management and food and housing support serves as a model for the future. _X_ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The County, and Office of Response, Recovery, and Resilience (OR3) see the value in a strong, well organized and resourced VOAD (Volunteer Organizations Assisting in Disaster) and a Long-Term Recovery Group (LTRG) is supporting all phases of disaster from preparedness to response, short term recovery and long-term recovery....

R2

The Program Manager of Family & Child Services should coordinate with Monterey and San Benito County peers for the purpose of reconvening the tri-county Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children steering committee. This team would meet regularly to review and track intercounty human trafficking cases and activity in our region and participate in regional prevention activities. This should be completed by December 31, 2025. (F3)

Response: Implemented

Score: 0

. The Santa Cruz County Civil Grand Jury recommends that OR3, CDI, and Santa Cruz County Environmental Health collaborate in developing a plan for an expedited rebuild process for future disaster victims. This should be done by December 31, 2024. (F5, F6) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) _X_ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timefra...

F3

The tri-county CSEC steering committee for the prevention of human trafficking has not met for a full year as of the publication of this report. Therefore, there is no active body that could potentially monitor trafficking cases across the tri-county area.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. Because many CZU fire victims were unaware of LTRG disaster services, fire victims, to their detriment, did not make use of the services and/or available financial assistance. __ AGREE _X_ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Communications to fire victim families included regular newsletters from the OR3, community meetings and in-person resource sharing events, outreach from the Board of Supervisor offices whose districts were affected, and digital surveys to learn more about victims' experiences and share resource information. Mor...

R3

The Program Manager of County Family & Child Services should resume and maintain monthly multidisciplinary team meetings, required as a condition of receiving Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children funding, to review ongoing human trafficking cases and discuss other potential cases involving high-risk youth. This should commence by August 31, 2025. (F4)

Response: Implemented

Score: 0

. The Santa Cruz County Civil Grand Jury recommends that OR3 provide a list of all victims of the CZU Lighting Complex Fire, as well as lists of victims of any future disasters, to the LTRG to simplify outreach to victims. This should be done by September 1, 2024. (F2, F3) _X_ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, su...

F4

The County Family & Child Services CSEC-required monthly multidisciplinary team meetings have not been held since November 2023, despite biennial reporting otherwise to the State Department of Social Services. Therefore, known cases of human trafficking have not been properly overseen.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The failure of County agencies to have an effective disaster response plan in place prior to the CZU Fire caused many fire victims to incur unnecessary expense in the rebuilding process. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The rebuild plan and procedures were established well in advance of the completion of the state's debris removal process, which is the essential first step. The county finalized its contract with 4 Leaf in November 2020, ahead of the debris removal effort's conclusion. Within two weeks of signing the ...

R4

Each law enforcement agency in Santa Cruz County, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should require law enforcement officers to receive an annual human trafficking awareness training, preferably led by human trafficking survivors. This should commence by December 31, 2025. (F12)

Response: Implemented

Score: 0

. The Santa Cruz County Civil Grand Jury further recommends that the Board of Supervisors work with CAL FIRE to develop clear collaboration between local firefighting agencies and CAL FIRE. The community at large should then be advised as to this line of command. This should be done by December 31, 2024. (F1, F4) _X_ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - expl...

F5

Staff and administration of the County Office of Education report they are not adequately trained and do not receive regular training regarding human trafficking as required by AB 1227. This is in spite of the fact that free training is available from local providers that could bring COE into compliance if enforced. This deficiency can lead to a failure in the staff’s ability to identify cases of trafficking.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The failure of CDI and Environmental Health to provide timely guidance with respect to applying for and obtaining required permits after the CZU Fire caused many fire victims to expend unnecessary time and expense in the rebuild permitting process. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The rebuild plan and procedures were established well in advance of the completion of the state's debris removal process, the essential first step before any site investigations or permitting activity could take place. The county finalized ...

R5

The County Office of Education should come into compliance with AB 1227, providing human trafficking-related training, led by survivors, to students and staff as required. This should be completed by February 28, 2026. (F5)

Response: Unknown

Score: 0

F6

Very few businesses in Santa Cruz County are in compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. This results in the reduction of community awareness of the problem and the likelihood that trafficking victims will be able to reach out for help.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The failure of the County Environmental Health department to fully inform CZU fire victims about new state septic system regulations (LAMP) resulted in many fire victims abandoning their plans to rebuild after realizing how high the cost of meeting the new standards would be. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The expedited re-build permit process was built on the first step of obtaining "preclearances" to ensure rebuilders were able to fully understand the scope of work and financial impact of meeting state-approved r...

R6

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6)

Response: Unknown

Score: 0

F7

Existing human trafficking signs at farm worker contractor sites are not readily accessible to farm workers and are in poor condition. This can result in farm workers being unaware of available resources and an inability to reach out for help.

Response: Unknown Score: 0

R7

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should require that county-specific human trafficking awareness and support signs include at least one 24/7 local hotline number, and staff should collaborate with local non-profits providing support to human trafficking victims to develop an effective sign for countywide posting and distribution. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F10, F11)

Response: Unknown

Score: 0

F8

The mix of County and local municipal ordinances regarding the licensing and inspection of massage businesses varies, possibly causing confusion and inconsistent enforcement of existing regulations.

Response: Unknown Score: 0

R8

The Santa Cruz County Agricultural Commissioner should come into compliance with SB 1193 by ensuring that existing human trafficking signs are refreshed annually. In addition, it should require all farm labor contractors to include the SB 1193 sign in employee handbooks for easy accessibility. A review for compliance should be done on an annual basis. This should commence by September 30, 2025. (F7)

Response: Unknown

Score: 0

F9

Annual inspections are required of massage businesses in jurisdictions with massage business ordinances, but inspections are generally not being conducted. This can result in undetected human trafficking activity.

Response: Unknown Score: 0

R9

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt a countywide ordinance regulating the licensing, employee certification, and inspection requirements for massage businesses consistent with California Massage Therapy Council certification and licensing requirements. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F8)

Response: Unknown

Score: 0

F10

Calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline on existing signs have unacceptably long wait times and can result in a lost opportunity to assist human trafficking victims.

Response: Unknown Score: 0

R10

Local law enforcement agencies, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should enforce massage business licensing, certification, and inspection requirements. This should include compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. Enforcement of existing ordinances should commence by September 30, 2025. However, if/when the Board of Supervisors agrees to the Jury’s recommendation to ad...

Response: Unknown

Score: 0

F11

Local nonprofit organizations have 24/7 hotline numbers that are staffed, and calls can be answered immediately or within minutes, greatly increasing the likelihood of contacting victims and providing assistance in real time.

Response: Unknown Score: 0

F12

There has been a lack of human trafficking presentations to law enforcement. Local law enforcement jurisdictions could request the no-cost training that is available from local human trafficking service providers. This can lead to officers learning to identify human trafficking victims and reduce further victim trauma.

Response: Unknown Score: 0

F13

Law enforcement task forces focused solely on human trafficking are very effective methods of detecting and preventing human trafficking activities. Such task forces could increase the rate of interdiction and the successful prosecution of human trafficking cases.

Response: Unknown Score: 0

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors

September 10, 2024 • 17 pages • 22 responses • Score: 0 (+0, 10, 0) View Details ▾

PDF

22 responses to findings and recommendations

R1

The Department of Human Services should designate a qualified staff member to take the lead in forming a countywide human trafficking coalition, including the District Attorney and the Sheriff’s Office. Members should include stakeholders discussed in this report who are involved in the prevention and interdiction of human trafficking. The focus should include the consolidation of human trafficking data and the procurement of additional funds, potentially to fund law enforcement task forces. Thi...

Response: Implemented

Score: 0

. The Grand Jury recommends that the Office of the Agricultural Commissioner makes known to City of Watsonville officials and various governmental agencies information about advances in agricultural pest control, including less toxic pesticides and alternative methods of pest eradication. This information should be shared by September 30, 2024. (F4, F5) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six m...

F2

The potential passage of AB 379 may provide grants for the District Attorney’s Office for the prosecution of traffickers and grants for community-based organizations for direct services and victim outreach. This could provide the resources necessary to ultimately reduce human trafficking and reduce the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

the public of pesticide application information in a timely manner. _X_ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Honoring Commitments to the Public Due by September 16, 2024 Page 3 of 15 F2.

R2

The Program Manager of Family & Child Services should coordinate with Monterey and San Benito County peers for the purpose of reconvening the tri-county Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children steering committee. This team would meet regularly to review and track intercounty human trafficking cases and activity in our region and participate in regional prevention activities. This should be completed by December 31, 2025. (F3)

Response: Implemented

Score: 0

. The Grand Jury recommends that the Office of the Agricultural Commissioner inform the public about advances in agricultural pest control, particularly to residents in areas commonly exposed to pesticide applications. This should be completed by October 15, 2024. (F4, F5) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) _X_ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, su...

F3

The tri-county CSEC steering committee for the prevention of human trafficking has not met for a full year as of the publication of this report. Therefore, there is no active body that could potentially monitor trafficking cases across the tri-county area.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

the option to choose the method with which they are most comfortable. _X_ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Honoring Commitments to the Public Due by September 16, 2024 Page 4 of 15 F3.

R3

The Program Manager of County Family & Child Services should resume and maintain monthly multidisciplinary team meetings, required as a condition of receiving Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children funding, to review ongoing human trafficking cases and discuss other potential cases involving high-risk youth. This should commence by August 31, 2025. (F4)

Response: Implemented

Score: 0

. The Grand Jury recommends that the Office of the Agricultural Commissioner makes known to City of Watsonville officials and various governmental agencies, information about the "Spray Days Now" notification system being developed by the state DPR. Information should be shared by September 30, 2024. (F1, F2, F3, F5) _X_ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - ...

F4

The County Family & Child Services CSEC-required monthly multidisciplinary team meetings have not been held since November 2023, despite biennial reporting otherwise to the State Department of Social Services. Therefore, known cases of human trafficking have not been properly overseen.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. As science progresses, less toxic pesticides are being developed and released regularly, and growers are finding acceptable alternatives to many pesticides. Less toxic pesticide use in Santa Cruz county is leading to lower risks to human and environmental health. _X_ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Honoring Commitments to the Public Due by September 16, 2024 Page 6 of 15 F5. Communication between the Agricultural Commissioner's Office and other south county officials concerning pesticide management is not adequate, lea...

R4

Each law enforcement agency in Santa Cruz County, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should require law enforcement officers to receive an annual human trafficking awareness training, preferably led by human trafficking survivors. This should commence by December 31, 2025. (F12)

Response: Implemented

Score: 0

. The Grand Jury recommends that the Office of the Agricultural Commissioner communicate information to the public about the "Spray Days Now" notification system being developed by the state DPR, especially in areas impacted by pesticide use. This should be completed by October 15, 2024. (F1, F2, F3, F5) _X_ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why R...

F5

Staff and administration of the County Office of Education report they are not adequately trained and do not receive regular training regarding human trafficking as required by AB 1227. This is in spite of the fact that free training is available from local providers that could bring COE into compliance if enforced. This deficiency can lead to a failure in the staff’s ability to identify cases of trafficking.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Honoring Commitments to the Public Due by September 16, 2024 Page 6 of 15 F5.

R5

The County Office of Education should come into compliance with AB 1227, providing human trafficking-related training, led by survivors, to students and staff as required. This should be completed by February 28, 2026. (F5)

Response: Unknown

Score: 0

F6

Very few businesses in Santa Cruz County are in compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. This results in the reduction of community awareness of the problem and the likelihood that trafficking victims will be able to reach out for help.

Response: Unknown Score: 0

R6

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6)

Response: Unknown

Score: 0

F7

Existing human trafficking signs at farm worker contractor sites are not readily accessible to farm workers and are in poor condition. This can result in farm workers being unaware of available resources and an inability to reach out for help.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The joint effort between CAL Fire and OR3, as well as many other partners listed in the report, to improve preparedness for future wildfires is welldocumented in the above-mentioned After-Action Report and Improvement Plan. Furthermore, the Grand Jury's recommendation that this undertaking commence within 6 months of the Grand Jury report publication did take place in the allotted time period. However, the Grand Jury did not find the original report or any published updates to the initial report that included progress towards the report's stated objectives. Such publications would reassure t...

R7

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should require that county-specific human trafficking awareness and support signs include at least one 24/7 local hotline number, and staff should collaborate with local non-profits providing support to human trafficking victims to develop an effective sign for countywide posting and distribution. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F10, F11)

Response: Implemented

Score: 0

. The Grand Jury requests an update as to the progress to date of the objectives outlined in the December 2021 After-Action Report in Appendix A: CORE CAPABILITIES / IMPROVEMENT PLAN and further requests that the OR3 publish this update on its website. (F7) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe _X_ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timef...

F8

The mix of County and local municipal ordinances regarding the licensing and inspection of massage businesses varies, possibly causing confusion and inconsistent enforcement of existing regulations.

Response: Unknown Score: 0

R8

The Santa Cruz County Agricultural Commissioner should come into compliance with SB 1193 by ensuring that existing human trafficking signs are refreshed annually. In addition, it should require all farm labor contractors to include the SB 1193 sign in employee handbooks for easy accessibility. A review for compliance should be done on an annual basis. This should commence by September 30, 2025. (F7)

Response: Unknown

Score: 0

F9

Annual inspections are required of massage businesses in jurisdictions with massage business ordinances, but inspections are generally not being conducted. This can result in undetected human trafficking activity.

Response: Unknown Score: 0

R9

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt a countywide ordinance regulating the licensing, employee certification, and inspection requirements for massage businesses consistent with California Massage Therapy Council certification and licensing requirements. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F8)

Response: Unknown

Score: 0

F10

Calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline on existing signs have unacceptably long wait times and can result in a lost opportunity to assist human trafficking victims.

Response: Unknown Score: 0

R10

Local law enforcement agencies, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should enforce massage business licensing, certification, and inspection requirements. This should include compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. Enforcement of existing ordinances should commence by September 30, 2025. However, if/when the Board of Supervisors agrees to the Jury’s recommendation to ad...

Response: Unknown

Score: 0

F11

Local nonprofit organizations have 24/7 hotline numbers that are staffed, and calls can be answered immediately or within minutes, greatly increasing the likelihood of contacting victims and providing assistance in real time.

Response: Unknown Score: 0

F12

There has been a lack of human trafficking presentations to law enforcement. Local law enforcement jurisdictions could request the no-cost training that is available from local human trafficking service providers. This can lead to officers learning to identify human trafficking victims and reduce further victim trauma.

Response: Unknown Score: 0

F13

Law enforcement task forces focused solely on human trafficking are very effective methods of detecting and preventing human trafficking activities. Such task forces could increase the rate of interdiction and the successful prosecution of human trafficking cases.

Response: Unknown Score: 0

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors

August 27, 2024 • 23 pages • 16 responses • Score: 0 (+0, 16, 0) View Details ▾

PDF

16 responses to findings and recommendations

F2

The potential passage of AB 379 may provide grants for the District Attorney’s Office for the prosecution of traffickers and grants for community-based organizations for direct services and victim outreach. This could provide the resources necessary to ultimately reduce human trafficking and reduce the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. Due to the large shortfall in funding, Santa Cruz County Department of Public Works adheres to the accepted practice promoted by the Federal Highway Administration and RTC of prioritizing pavement preservation over pavement restoration. Much of the public lacks awareness of this practice in the absence of a formally documented policy which impacts voter choices. __ AGREE _X_ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The County Department of Public Works uses industry-wide pavement management practices that results in the most efficient us...

R2

The Program Manager of Family & Child Services should coordinate with Monterey and San Benito County peers for the purpose of reconvening the tri-county Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children steering committee. This team would meet regularly to review and track intercounty human trafficking cases and activity in our region and participate in regional prevention activities. This should be completed by December 31, 2025. (F3)

Response: Implemented

Due: December 31, 2025 Scheduled: Fiscal Year 2024-25 Score: 0

. The Grand Jury recommends that the Board of Supervisors increase annual funding to the DPW to improve at least one local road segment with a PCI of less than 40 as listed in the Pavement Management report, in each Supervisorial district starting December 31, 2024. (F1, F2, F7, F8, F9) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) _X_ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response e...

F3

The tri-county CSEC steering committee for the prevention of human trafficking has not met for a full year as of the publication of this report. Therefore, there is no active body that could potentially monitor trafficking cases across the tri-county area.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The County road maintenance strategy differs by Supervisorial District leading to inconsistent road repair expectations among districts. This lack of a coordinated strategy leaves residents frustrated and with a sense of unfair treatment. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): General road maintenance consisting of vegetation management, surface patching, ditch cleaning and drainage maintenance is prescribed independent of political boundaries. County-wide pavement management funding is programed based on the percentage of...

R3

The Program Manager of County Family & Child Services should resume and maintain monthly multidisciplinary team meetings, required as a condition of receiving Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children funding, to review ongoing human trafficking cases and discuss other potential cases involving high-risk youth. This should commence by August 31, 2025. (F4)

Response: Implemented

Due: August 31, 2025 Scheduled: Fiscal Year 2024-25 Score: 0

. The Grand Jury recommends that the DPW supply information to LAFCO detailing expenditures in each of the three zones of CSA 9D for the years 2020-2023 by October 31, 2024. (F6, F10) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - _X_ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: This information resides in the Public Works cost accounting managem...

F4

The County Family & Child Services CSEC-required monthly multidisciplinary team meetings have not been held since November 2023, despite biennial reporting otherwise to the State Department of Social Services. Therefore, known cases of human trafficking have not been properly overseen.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. Storms of 2017 and 2023 caused significant road failures. Contributing factors were inadequate culvert, drainage ditch, and road surface maintenance which led to culvert failures and full road washouts leaving residents stranded or incurring significant delay. __ AGREE _X_ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): While it is agreed that the condition of county transportation infrastructure was a contributing factor to the damage caused by the storms of 2017 and 2023, this report has failed to adequately attribute factors such as age and ...

F5

Staff and administration of the County Office of Education report they are not adequately trained and do not receive regular training regarding human trafficking as required by AB 1227. This is in spite of the fact that free training is available from local providers that could bring COE into compliance if enforced. This deficiency can lead to a failure in the staff’s ability to identify cases of trafficking.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The County of Santa Cruz has failed to ask unincorporated County voters to increase the funding of the Special District 9D (1-3) road assessment fee since its inception in 1998, which has resulted in a drastic loss of revenue for maintaining County roads. __ AGREE _X_ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The County has explored the possibility of asking voters for a Special District CSA 9D several times in the past and is currently making a more serious inquiry into to voters' appetite for a proposed increase. Santa Cruz County Local...

R5

The County Office of Education should come into compliance with AB 1227, providing human trafficking-related training, led by survivors, to students and staff as required. This should be completed by February 28, 2026. (F5)

Response: Implemented

Due: February 28, 2026 Scheduled: Fiscal Year 2024-25 Score: 0

. The Grand Jury recommends that the County Board of Supervisors should begin the process necessary to increase the funding in CSA 9D to an amount in line with what is needed to reduce the backlog of very poor and failed road repairs by December 31, 2024. (F6) _X_ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and ti...

F6

Very few businesses in Santa Cruz County are in compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. This results in the reduction of community awareness of the problem and the likelihood that trafficking victims will be able to reach out for help.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The County of Santa Cruz has failed to perform resurfacing maintenance on many of the smaller unincorporated local roads, resulting in higher failure rates and at least a 10 times increased maintenance cost when and if those roads are resurfaced. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The County utilizes an industry-wide best management practice that results in the most cost-effective method of maintaining the County road network within existing resources. As illustrated in this Completed County Resurfacing Projects report...

R6

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6)

Response: Implemented

Due: June 30, 2026 Scheduled: Fiscal Year 2024-25 Score: 0

. The Grand Jury recommends that the County Board of Supervisors take steps necessary to add a consumer price index increase to CSA 9D, as allowed by law, by December 31, 2024. (F6) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - _X_ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: This will be considered in the process described in recommendation 5. ...

F7

Existing human trafficking signs at farm worker contractor sites are not readily accessible to farm workers and are in poor condition. This can result in farm workers being unaware of available resources and an inability to reach out for help.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. Santa Cruz County's neglect of unincorporated local roads for many decades has led to an average Pavement Condition Index of less than 48 (as of 2019) which is 17 points below the statewide average. With the current funding level, it is projected to be 38 in 2024, and it is further projected to drop to 33 by 2028 which will leave the County in a position to experience higher catastrophic road failures. __ AGREE _X_ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The County has not neglected unincorporated local roads, as evidenced by $350 milli...

R7

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should require that county-specific human trafficking awareness and support signs include at least one 24/7 local hotline number, and staff should collaborate with local non-profits providing support to human trafficking victims to develop an effective sign for countywide posting and distribution. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F10, F11)

Response: Implemented

Due: June 30, 2026 Scheduled: Fiscal Year 2024-25 Score: 0

. The Grand Jury recommends that the County Board of Supervisors continue to prioritize a minimum of 10% of Measure K funds to repair roads in the County with a PCI of 25 or less by December 31, 2024. (F10, F11) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) _X_ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: The Board evaluates and sets County prio...

F8

The mix of County and local municipal ordinances regarding the licensing and inspection of massage businesses varies, possibly causing confusion and inconsistent enforcement of existing regulations.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The County prioritizes preventive maintenance of roads in fair to good condition over road repair and reconstruction due to limited discretionary funds. As a result, many residents in local road areas will have to contend with very poor/failed roads into the foreseeable future. __ AGREE _X_ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Santa Cruz County Community Development & Infrastructure uses a pavement management industry-wide best management practice that results in the most efficient use of scarce resources to address road treatment. A...

R8

The Santa Cruz County Agricultural Commissioner should come into compliance with SB 1193 by ensuring that existing human trafficking signs are refreshed annually. In addition, it should require all farm labor contractors to include the SB 1193 sign in employee handbooks for easy accessibility. A review for compliance should be done on an annual basis. This should commence by September 30, 2025. (F7)

Response: Implemented

Score: 0

. The Grand Jury recommends that the DPW formalize its policy of abandoning pavement restoration on very poor and failed Local roads into a publicly available document in order to inform affected property owners and prospective buyers by December 31, 2024. (F2, F3, F4, F7, F9) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) _X_ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation...

F9

Annual inspections are required of massage businesses in jurisdictions with massage business ordinances, but inspections are generally not being conducted. This can result in undetected human trafficking activity.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The most recent LAFCO and County reports fail to provide detailed accounting of how 9D funds are being spent. The result is that taxpayers lack the information to ensure that generated funds are being used appropriately. __ AGREE _X_ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The accounting information regarding the use of CSA 9D funds are appropriate and in compliance with Government Accounting Standards Board (GASB). However, more programmatic information could be provided such as specific services and areas funds are being utilized for....

F10

Calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline on existing signs have unacceptably long wait times and can result in a lost opportunity to assist human trafficking victims.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. Minor progress has been made in seeking and securing additional funding sources. The additional funding is far short of what is needed to maintain and repair the road network. __ AGREE _X_ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Measure D (local half-cent sales tax) and Senate Bill (SB) 1 (State funding from vehicle registration fees/fuel taxes) are relatively new, having passed in 2016 and 2017, respectively. Measure K half-cent sales tax approved by voters on March 5, 2024, will provide a new source of funding for roads projects. As p...

F11

Local nonprofit organizations have 24/7 hotline numbers that are staffed, and calls can be answered immediately or within minutes, greatly increasing the likelihood of contacting victims and providing assistance in real time.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. Measure K funds go directly into the General Fund and road maintenance funding expenditures are only recommended. This may allow the funding to go to other needs. __ AGREE _X_ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): As part of placing the measure on the ballot, the Board adopted a resolution supporting budget priorities for Measure K that includes $1 million for road repair and critical infrastructure. The Board could choose to revisit these priorities and adjust budget allocations depending on needs and interests. Santa Cruz County Loc...

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors

August 27, 2024 • 16 pages • 10 responses • Score: 0 (+0, 10, 0) View Details ▾

PDF

10 responses to findings and recommendations

F2

The potential passage of AB 379 may provide grants for the District Attorney’s Office for the prosecution of traffickers and grants for community-based organizations for direct services and victim outreach. This could provide the resources necessary to ultimately reduce human trafficking and reduce the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The County has limited staff to analyze the data for identifying trends which would allow focusing resources more effectively. __ AGREE _X_ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The County has Analysts and other qualified staff with skills and tools necessary to analyze data, trends, and form recommendations to effectively allocate limited resources. Not all data is accessible to the County, but data sharing initiatives are advancing within County departments, which have the potential to improve resource allocation efficiencies, as we...

R2

The Program Manager of Family & Child Services should coordinate with Monterey and San Benito County peers for the purpose of reconvening the tri-county Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children steering committee. This team would meet regularly to review and track intercounty human trafficking cases and activity in our region and participate in regional prevention activities. This should be completed by December 31, 2025. (F3)

Response: Implemented

Score: 0

. The Grand Jury recommends that the Board of Supervisors direct the CAO to implement performance budgeting of Behavioral Health Services over the next two-year budget cycle. This was also recommended by the 2017-2018 Grand Jury. The BoS should take this action by December 31, 2024. (F1) _X_ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response ...

F3

The tri-county CSEC steering committee for the prevention of human trafficking has not met for a full year as of the publication of this report. Therefore, there is no active body that could potentially monitor trafficking cases across the tri-county area.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. Zip code data can pinpoint areas of "High Need," which can direct datadriven funding for better health outcomes and give a better "Return on Investment." __ AGREE _X_ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Zip code data can pinpoint areas of "High Need," which can direct data-driven funding for better health outcomes and give a better "Return on Investment", The BHD is responsible for the administration of the Specialty Mental Health and Drug Medi-Cal Health Plans and the provision of care to Medi-Cal beneficiaries who meet health crit...

R3

The Program Manager of County Family & Child Services should resume and maintain monthly multidisciplinary team meetings, required as a condition of receiving Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children funding, to review ongoing human trafficking cases and discuss other potential cases involving high-risk youth. This should commence by August 31, 2025. (F4)

Response: Implemented

Score: 0

. The Grand Jury recommends that because the 95076 zip code is the area of most need, Behavioral Health Division's Enhanced Care Management programs should focus efforts on identifying and case managing clients in this area by December 31, 2024. (F3, F4, F5, F6, F7) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - _X_ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, ...

F4

The County Family & Child Services CSEC-required monthly multidisciplinary team meetings have not been held since November 2023, despite biennial reporting otherwise to the State Department of Social Services. Therefore, known cases of human trafficking have not been properly overseen.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The 95076 zip code has an extraordinarily high number of patient transfers to outside the county compared to other zip codes of Santa Cruz county. This indicates a major lack of healthcare facilities and services to serve the community. __ AGREE _X_ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The County is committed to retaining the existing health care facilities and services that support all County residents, including 95076 zip code residents, and has committed to expanding the availability of facilities and services. The County has made...

R4

Each law enforcement agency in Santa Cruz County, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should require law enforcement officers to receive an annual human trafficking awareness training, preferably led by human trafficking survivors. This should commence by December 31, 2025. (F12)

Response: Implemented

Score: 0

. The Grand Jury recommends that Behavioral Health Services, County Office of Education, and the Board of Supervisors develop and publish a plan, with measurable outcomes, that focuses on improving socioeconomic indicators in the 95076 zip code by December 31, 2024. (F3, F4, F5) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) _X_ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanati...

F5

Staff and administration of the County Office of Education report they are not adequately trained and do not receive regular training regarding human trafficking as required by AB 1227. This is in spite of the fact that free training is available from local providers that could bring COE into compliance if enforced. This deficiency can lead to a failure in the staff’s ability to identify cases of trafficking.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. A study of socioeconomic indicators of the 95076 zip code, compared to other zip codes of Santa Cruz county, reveal a dire need to improve the following: Homelessness Low Preschool Enrollment Poor Health Care Access Unemployment Support for Single Parent Households _X_ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Santa Cruz County's DataShareSCC provides dozens of indicators related to community health and well-being. https://www.datasharescc.org/ The data shows similar findings. The Public Health Division-led Community Health Asses...

R5

The County Office of Education should come into compliance with AB 1227, providing human trafficking-related training, led by survivors, to students and staff as required. This should be completed by February 28, 2026. (F5)

Response: Implemented

Score: 0

. The Grand Jury recommends that Behavioral Health Services and the Board of Supervisors include an outcome-based evaluation of contracted services through a summary report that is publicly available. This should be done for all new and renewed contracts by December 31, 2024. (F1, F2, F4, F5, F7) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) _X_ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required ...

F6

Very few businesses in Santa Cruz County are in compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. This results in the reduction of community awareness of the problem and the likelihood that trafficking victims will be able to reach out for help.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The ECM programs are currently at capacity and have waiting lists. More providers are needed to expand the program further to transition more residents to independent living. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The County does not have data on waiting lists or patient need for the Enhanced Care Management (ECM) program. The Enhanced Care Management is a Medi-Cal entitlement that is the responsibility of the Medi-Cal Managed Care Plans (MCPs) and administered through the MCPs. In Santa Cruz County, there are two Medi-Cal...

F7

Existing human trafficking signs at farm worker contractor sites are not readily accessible to farm workers and are in poor condition. This can result in farm workers being unaware of available resources and an inability to reach out for help.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. Though there is evidence that managed care programs like ECM are effective, lack of data leaves doubt in the public's mind. Data supporting the success rate of ECM programs would ensure stronger public support. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The County does not have data on the effectiveness of the Enhanced Care Management (ECM) program at this time. The Enhanced Care Management is a Medi-Cal entitlement that is the responsibility of the Medi-Cal Managed Care Plans (MCPs) and administered through the MCPs. In Santa...

Santa Cruz County Sheriff

August 12, 2024 • 34 pages • 21 responses • Score: 0 (+0, 21, 0) View Details ▾

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21 responses to findings and recommendations

F2

The potential passage of AB 379 may provide grants for the District Attorney’s Office for the prosecution of traffickers and grants for community-based organizations for direct services and victim outreach. This could provide the resources necessary to ultimately reduce human trafficking and reduce the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The failure of Wellpath to implement a comprehensive discharge plan causes inmates to be released without community connection to medical treatment and medication. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff's Office disagrees with this finding for the following reasons: - A "comprehensive discharge plan" is the responsibility of more than the contracted medical provider (Wellpath or NaphCare). This plan would involve Probation, Courts, community partners, the Sheriff's Office, and the contracted medical provider to ...

R2

The Program Manager of Family & Child Services should coordinate with Monterey and San Benito County peers for the purpose of reconvening the tri-county Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children steering committee. This team would meet regularly to review and track intercounty human trafficking cases and activity in our region and participate in regional prevention activities. This should be completed by December 31, 2025. (F3)

Response: Implemented

Due: December 31, 2025 Scheduled: within 90 days Score: 0

. By the end of calendar year 2024, the Grand Jury recommends the Sheriff instruct Wellpath to improve the medical discharge processes for better continuity of care. (F1, F2) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) X_ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: The Sheriff's Office disagreed with the supporting findings for this recommend...

F3

The tri-county CSEC steering committee for the prevention of human trafficking has not met for a full year as of the publication of this report. Therefore, there is no active body that could potentially monitor trafficking cases across the tri-county area.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The failure of the Sheriff's jail staff to properly address inmates' mental illness crises has caused mentally disabled inmates to be held in Safety Cells for excessively long periods. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff's Office disagrees with this finding for the following reasons: - Dr. Lee's recent 2024 Title 15 inspection notes that we were in compliance with the use of Safety Cells, meaning we were utilizing them appropriately. - The Sheriff's Office works with our contracted Medical and Mental Health ...

R3

The Program Manager of County Family & Child Services should resume and maintain monthly multidisciplinary team meetings, required as a condition of receiving Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children funding, to review ongoing human trafficking cases and discuss other potential cases involving high-risk youth. This should commence by August 31, 2025. (F4)

Response: Implemented

Due: August 31, 2025 Scheduled: within 90 days Score: 0

. By the end of calendar year 2024, the Grand Jury recommends the Sheriff retrain staff about the proper use of Safety Cells according to Title 15 section 1055 and the Sheriff's policy and procedures manual. (F3, F4, F5) _X HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: The Sheriff's Office disagreed w...

F4

The County Family & Child Services CSEC-required monthly multidisciplinary team meetings have not been held since November 2023, despite biennial reporting otherwise to the State Department of Social Services. Therefore, known cases of human trafficking have not been properly overseen.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The improper use of Safety Cells by the Sheriff's jail staff to isolate inmates who are greatly in need of mental health care and/or have made suicidal statements causes a violation of required procedure. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff's Office disagrees with this finding for the following reasons: - The Sheriff's Office does not improperly use Safety Cells. - Safety Cells are used for individuals that are at risk for self-harm, a risk of harm to others, or damaging property to the point they could be a ...

R4

Each law enforcement agency in Santa Cruz County, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should require law enforcement officers to receive an annual human trafficking awareness training, preferably led by human trafficking survivors. This should commence by December 31, 2025. (F12)

Response: Implemented

Due: December 31, 2025 Scheduled: within 90 days Score: 0

. By the end of calendar year 2024, the Grand Jury recommends the Sheriff retrain staff with the proper use of a 5150 hold and the transfer of inmates to a mental health facility according to Title 15 and the Sheriff's policy and procedures manual. (F6) _X HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe:...

F5

Staff and administration of the County Office of Education report they are not adequately trained and do not receive regular training regarding human trafficking as required by AB 1227. This is in spite of the fact that free training is available from local providers that could bring COE into compliance if enforced. This deficiency can lead to a failure in the staff’s ability to identify cases of trafficking.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The use of Safety Cells for punishment has resulted in violations of Title 15 section 1055 and the Sheriff's Policy and Procedures Manual policy 516.2. This may expose the Sheriff's department to lawsuits. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff's Office disagrees with this finding for the following reasons: - Dr. Lee's recent 2024 Title 15 Inspection specifically noted in the comments "Safety Cell is not used for punishment" and we were found to be in compliance with Safety Cell use. - The Sheriff's Office is u...

R5

The County Office of Education should come into compliance with AB 1227, providing human trafficking-related training, led by survivors, to students and staff as required. This should be completed by February 28, 2026. (F5)

Response: Implemented

Due: February 28, 2026 Scheduled: within 90 days Score: 0

. By the end of the calendar year 2024, the Grand Jury recommends the Sheriff train staff on how to transfer suicidal inmates to an LPS facility for mental health care. (F7) _X HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: The Sheriff's Office disagreed with the supporting finding for this recommendat...

F6

Very few businesses in Santa Cruz County are in compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. This results in the reduction of community awareness of the problem and the likelihood that trafficking victims will be able to reach out for help.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The practice of excluding mentally ill patients from 5150 hold and transfer until discharge results in a violation of both Title 15 and Sheriff's Policies and Procedures manual policy 516.2. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff's Office disagrees with this finding for the following reasons: - Dr. Lee's recent 2024 Title 15 inspection notes that we were in compliance with all regulations related to this topic. Furthermore, we passed all Title 15 inspections by the BSCC. - To release an individual to an LPS fac...

R6

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6)

Response: Implemented

Due: June 30, 2026 Scheduled: within 90 days Score: 0

. By the end of calendar year 2024, the Grand Jury recommends the Sheriff direct the CIT team to not withhold a 5150 hold and make a transfer until release because this is not proper or best practice for inmates in need of mental health care. (F8) _X HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: The S...

F7

Existing human trafficking signs at farm worker contractor sites are not readily accessible to farm workers and are in poor condition. This can result in farm workers being unaware of available resources and an inability to reach out for help.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The failure of Jail administrators to transfer inmates with suicidal ideation or in a mental health crisis to an out-of-county LPS facility adversely impacts inmate mental health care. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff's Office disagrees with this finding for the following reasons: - Dr. Lee's recent 2024 Title 15 inspection noted that we were in compliant with all regulations related to this topic. - Incarcerated persons with suicidal ideation are placed in safety cells where the ability to harm themselve...

R7

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should require that county-specific human trafficking awareness and support signs include at least one 24/7 local hotline number, and staff should collaborate with local non-profits providing support to human trafficking victims to develop an effective sign for countywide posting and distribution. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F10, F11)

Response: Implemented

Due: June 30, 2026 Scheduled: within 90 days Score: 0

. By the end of calendar year 2024, the Grand Jury recommends the Sheriff develop a plan to transfer all inmates in mental health crises to LPS facilities and budget the extra cost of transferring patients out of the county. (F9, F10) _X HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: The Sheriff's Offi...

F8

The mix of County and local municipal ordinances regarding the licensing and inspection of massage businesses varies, possibly causing confusion and inconsistent enforcement of existing regulations.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The failure of the Crisis Intervention Team to issue a 5150 hold and transfer before an inmate is discharged adversely impacts inmate mental health care. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff's Office disagrees with this finding for the following reasons: - Dr. Lee's recent 2024 Title 15 inspection noted that we were compliant with all regulations related to this topic. - The Sheriff's Office does work with the Courts and our community partners to coordinate care of individuals in crisis and transfer them to an...

R8

The Santa Cruz County Agricultural Commissioner should come into compliance with SB 1193 by ensuring that existing human trafficking signs are refreshed annually. In addition, it should require all farm labor contractors to include the SB 1193 sign in employee handbooks for easy accessibility. A review for compliance should be done on an annual basis. This should commence by September 30, 2025. (F7)

Response: Implemented

Due: September 30, 2025 Scheduled: within 90 days Score: 0

. By the end of calendar year 2024, the Grand Jury recommends the Sheriff reopen closed units and move all qualified inmates to Rountree Medium Security and the Minimum Security Rehabilitation and Reentry unit. (F11) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - _X summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: The Sheriff's Office disagreed with ...

F9

Annual inspections are required of massage businesses in jurisdictions with massage business ordinances, but inspections are generally not being conducted. This can result in undetected human trafficking activity.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The practice of placement in Administrative Separation (solitary confinement) causes inmates to suffer mental health problems including, but not limited to, anxiety, insomnia, paranoia, aggression, and depression. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff's Office disagrees with this finding for the following reasons: - The Sheriff's Office understands that Administrative Separation can have a negative impact on incarcerated persons. - Placing some of these individuals that are in Administrative Separation around o...

R9

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt a countywide ordinance regulating the licensing, employee certification, and inspection requirements for massage businesses consistent with California Massage Therapy Council certification and licensing requirements. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F8)

Response: Implemented

Due: June 30, 2026 Scheduled: within 90 days Score: 0

. By the end of calendar year 2024, the Grand Jury recommends the Sheriff develop a comprehensive plan to increase the number of programs that steer inmates towards reentry into the community with new job skills development, education, work release and transitional programs. (F12) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) _X WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanat...

F10

Calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline on existing signs have unacceptably long wait times and can result in a lost opportunity to assist human trafficking victims.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. The failure of Jail administrators to transfer Inmates who are suffering from mental health crises symptoms to an LPS Facility adversely impacts inmate mental health care. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff's Office disagrees with this finding for the following reasons: - Dr. Lee's recent 2024 Title 15 inspection noted that we were compliant with all regulations related to this topic. - The Sheriff's Office routinely transfers incarcerated individuals that are in acute crisis to an LPS facility. - Despite a ...

R10

Local law enforcement agencies, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should enforce massage business licensing, certification, and inspection requirements. This should include compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. Enforcement of existing ordinances should commence by September 30, 2025. However, if/when the Board of Supervisors agrees to the Jury’s recommendation to ad...

Response: Implemented

Due: September 30, 2025 Scheduled: within 90 days Score: 0

. By the end of fiscal year 2024-2025, the Grand Jury recommends the Sheriff develop a plan to implement more Jail diversion programs (like Stepping Up) that steer the Mentally Ill away from jail and to the help they need. (F13) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) _X WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: The Sheriff's Office sup...

F11

Local nonprofit organizations have 24/7 hotline numbers that are staffed, and calls can be answered immediately or within minutes, greatly increasing the likelihood of contacting victims and providing assistance in real time.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. Opening the closed unit at Rountree and increasing the number of re-entry programs would result in better conditions for inmates and less stress for the correctional officers. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff's Office disagrees with this finding for the following reasons: - The Sheriff's Office intends to reopen the closed unit at Rountree when staffing improves. - Sheriff's Office Correctional Officers have been on Mandatory Overtime (MOT) for over 7 years now. - If the Sheriff's Office opened the closed ...

F12

There has been a lack of human trafficking presentations to law enforcement. Local law enforcement jurisdictions could request the no-cost training that is available from local human trafficking service providers. This can lead to officers learning to identify human trafficking victims and reduce further victim trauma.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. Increasing the number of programs that focus on rehabilitation, education, and restorative justice to prepare for reentry would show positive improvement to public safety and a reduction in recidivism for reentering inmates. _X AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff's Office is committed to programming for our incarcerated population. Our Programs division was recently recognized as a "mentor site" by the Bureau of Justice Administration (BJA) for its work in this field. This recognition resulted in our Programs st...

F13

Law enforcement task forces focused solely on human trafficking are very effective methods of detecting and preventing human trafficking activities. Such task forces could increase the rate of interdiction and the successful prosecution of human trafficking cases.

Response: Disagree Partially Score: 0

. Jail programs like "Stepping Up" steers the mentally ill to community-based mental health care, reducing the number of mentally ill inmates in jail. __ AGREE _X PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff's Office is supportive of programs that reduce the number of mentally ill individuals incarcerated. Further research of the Stepping Up program would be required to fully agree with this statement. We Can Do Better with Our Jails! Due by August 12, 2024 Page 16 of 33 F14. The current practice of reviewing inmate classification...

Human Trafficking in Santa Cruz County Voices Unheard, Signs Unseen

Findings 13 findings

Recommendations 10

Agency Responses 8