April 1, 2023 - San Bernardino County Sheriff Department officials report that on Thursday, March 30, 2023, at 4:48 p.m., deputies at the West Valley Detention Center were alerted to an inmate, identified as Francisco Velez, who was experiencing a medical emergency.  Deputies, along with jail nursing staff, treated Velez until medical aid arrived.  Velez was transported to a hospital where he was pronounced deceased.  

Detectives from the Specialized Investigations Division responded and assumed the investigation.  The investigation is ongoing, and the cause and manner of death are pending.

Velez was arrested on May 5, 2022, in Apple Valley for assault with a deadly weapon.  He was booked in at the High Desert Detention Center and later transferred to the West Valley Detention Center where he remained until his death.    

Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact the Specialized Investigations Division at 909-890-4904.  Callers wishing to remain anonymous should contact the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or go to www.wetip.com.

DATE/TIME:   March 30, 2023 / 4:48 p.m.

INCIDENT:   In-Custody Death Investigation

LOCATION:  West Valley Detention Center, 9500 Etiwanda Avenue, Rancho Cucamonga

SUSPECT(S):   N/A

VICTIM(S): Francisco Velez, 46-years-old, Resident of Apple Valley

Refer:  Detective M. Roth 

Station:   Specialized Investigations Division

Phone No.   909-890-4904

Case No.   DR# 602300031  H# 2023-36

Source: San Bernardino County Sheriff Department