A significant discussion at the recent Senate Public Safety Committee meeting focused on Assembly Bill 1108, aimed at reforming how deaths in custody are investigated in California. The bill proposes that independent medical doctors, rather than sheriffs who also serve as coroners, should determine the circumstances, cause, and manner of death for individuals who die while incarcerated.

Currently, California is one of only three states allowing sheriffs to hold dual roles as coroners, which raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest. In 48 counties, elected sheriffs are responsible for investigating suspicious and unattended deaths, including those occurring in jails. This dual responsibility has been criticized, particularly following a 2024 Santa Barbara County Grand Jury Report that highlighted both real and perceived conflicts arising from this arrangement.

Supporters of AB 1108, including representatives from the California Public Defenders Association, argue that the bill is a necessary step to ensure that medical investigations are conducted objectively and without influence from the law enforcement agencies responsible for the individuals' custody. Margo George, speaking on behalf of the association, emphasized the importance of public trust in the investigative process, stating that the independence of medical professionals is crucial for accurate determinations of cause and manner of death.

The bill is designed to allow flexibility for counties, accommodating both large urban areas and smaller jurisdictions by permitting inter-county referrals or contracts with independent forensic pathologists. This approach aims to safeguard the integrity of forensic medical work and ensure that all Californians receive fair and unbiased investigations into deaths that occur in custody.

As the committee continues to deliberate on this important legislation, the outcomes could significantly impact how deaths in custody are handled across the state, addressing community concerns about transparency and accountability in the justice system.