DA Review of Officer Involved Shootings & In Custody Deaths

The Office of the District Attorney has conducted reviews of all officer involved shootings (OIS) in the line of duty by San Diego County peace officers since the mid- 1970's. In 2006, a revised Protocol for Investigation and Review of Officer Involved Shootings and Other Uses of Force Resulting in Death was signed by District Attorney Bonnie M. Dumanis, the Sheriff, the Warden at Donovan State Prison and the Chiefs of all the local law enforcement agencies in San Diego County, including the Border Division of the CHP.

The purpose of the District Attorney’s review is to provide an independent review of all shootings and other use of deadly force, fatal and non-fatal, to assure the public that peace officers in San Diego County are performing their duties in a legally justified manner. This review does not examine such issues as compliance with the policies and procedures of any law enforcement agency, ways to improve training, or any issues related to civil liability.

Upon completion of the District Attorney's review, a letter summarizing the facts and statements of the deputy or officer and other witnesses is written and delivered to the Chief or Sheriff. Below is a list of letters submitted by the DA, including the name of the individual involved, the law enforcement agencies involved and the date of the incident.

A copy of these letters may be obtained from the law enforcement agency that received the letter. If it is not available from the agency, contact District Attorney Communications Director Paul Levikow by email.