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Bill would split Riverside sheriff and coroner duties, create independent medical examiner
Summary
SB 1379 would separate Riverside County's sheriff and coroner functions and establish an independent medical examiner to strengthen impartial death investigations; family advocates, researchers, and some counties supported the bill while the sheriff's office and state sheriffs opposed singling out Riverside.
Sen. Cervantes presented SB 1379 to separate Riverside County's sheriff and coroner functions and to establish an independent medical examiner. He cited multiple investigations and news reports showing high in‑custody death counts in Riverside and argued the current sheriff‑coroner model creates a conflict of interest.
Lisa Matusz, whose son died in custody, and attorney Denise Gastelum described cases where families sought independent answers and alleged misclassification and record inconsistencies. Dr. Nick Shapiro (UCLA) presented audit findings showing discrepancies in the county's death records and higher misclassification rates in coroner counties; he testified an independent medical examiner model improves public‑health surveillance and trust.
Opposition witnesses, including a Riverside Sheriff's lieutenant and the State Sheriffs' Association, argued the data do not show Riverside is unique, noted existing state legislation and local studies, and warned of preemption and operational disruption. Sen. Cervantes said amendments addressed transition concerns and the committee discussed continuing engagement.
