Local News
Investigation underway after an inmate died while incarcerated
Martinez, California – The Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff and the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office are now conducting an investigation into a death that happened while an individual was being held in custody at the Martinez Detention Facility.
Antioch police arrested a man for misdemeanor spousal battery on December 31, 2022. As soon as he arrived at the facility, he tested positive for COVID-19 and was immediately quarantined. Medical and mental health experts at County Health Services determined that he was cleared for incarceration.
During a room check that was performed on the prisoner on Tuesday at around 1:22 p.m., the deputies did not notice any movement from the inmate. After making their way inside, the deputies immediately asked for the assistance of the medical personnel. Sheriff’s deputies, members of the medical staff, and paramedics all made efforts to save the inmate’s life.
He was later pronounced dead at the scene, and officials said there were no signs of trauma. An investigation into the incident is currently underway.