Commission recommends permanent inspector general with subpoena power after public raises alarm over six jail deaths

The San Mateo County Independent Civilian Advisory Commission voted to forward final recommendations to the Board of Supervisors urging a clear, public process for replacing the sheriff if the board chooses to do so and calling for a permanent inspector general with subpoena power.

The commission’s action followed extensive public comment and a series of speakers who urged stronger civilian oversight of the sheriff’s office after what multiple speakers described as “six deaths in a year” in county custody. Jim Lawrence, chair of Fixing San Mateo County, asked the commission to “recommend to the board of supervisors to immediately establish a permanent inspector general's office.” Nancy Goodman, a Redwood City resident and Fixing San Mateo County member, said the county “needs secure clinical settings where people in crisis can be diverted” and urged permanent, independent oversight of the sheriff’s office.

Why it matters: Commissioners and dozens of public commenters framed the issue as both a public-safety and accountability problem. Speakers cited a string of recent deaths in county jails, described gaps in mental-health and diversion services, and argued that an independent inspector…