Riverside County residents demand accountability from Sheriff Bianco amid rising jail deaths and scandals

The Riverside County Board of Supervisors held a regular meeting on October 22, 2024, addressing critical issues concerning law enforcement practices and animal services in the community. The meeting featured several public comments that highlighted ongoing concerns about the treatment of inmates and the management of stray animals.

The session began with a poignant testimony from a speaker who detailed the tragic circumstances surrounding the death of Richard Matus Jr. at the Coipurge Detention Center in August 2022. The speaker recounted how Matus faced hostility from deputies, leading to a series of grievances that went unaddressed. This individual emphasized the need for accountability and transparency within the sheriff's department, urging the board to request video evidence of incidents involving excessive force and civil rights violations. The speaker expressed a strong belief that had the issues been brought to light sooner, Matus's death—and potentially others—could have been prevented.

Following this, Georgia Licaretsos addressed the board regarding the contract with Outcome for Pets Consulting and the ongoing crisis of stray and abandoned animals in Riverside County. Licaretsos criticized current policies that she claimed exacerbate the problem, leading to the suffering and mass destruction of companion animals. She urged the board to terminate the contract with the consulting firm and redirect funds towards spay and neuter programs, advocating for a more humane and effective approach to animal control.

Candace Cortez, sister of Richard Matus Jr., also spoke, highlighting a series of troubling incidents involving Riverside County law enforcement, including record jail deaths and allegations of misconduct. She criticized Sheriff Chad Bianco's leadership, calling for an audit of his office due to a perceived lack of accountability and transparency. Cortez's comments underscored a growing frustration among residents regarding the sheriff's handling of serious allegations and the overall welfare of inmates.

The meeting concluded with a call for the board to take decisive action in addressing these pressing issues, reflecting a community eager for change and improved governance. The discussions underscored the urgent need for reform in both law enforcement practices and animal services, as residents seek assurance that their concerns are being heard and addressed.