Death Investigation at George Bailey Detention Facility 

July 31, 2023 - San Diego County Sheriff’s Department officials report that on July 29, 2023, Sheriff's Homicide investigators were notified 47-year-old Jonathan McDowell, an individual in Sheriff's custody, passed away at Scripps Mercy Hospital around 5:00 p.m. Mr. McDowell was transported to the hospital on July 19, 2023, after deputies located him unresponsive in his cell. Deputies and jail medical staff provided medical aid, including CPR, Naloxone, and an AED device, until relieved by the Fire Department. We extend our sympathies to the McDowell family and those affected by his death. A Sheriff's Family Liaison Officer will support the family as they deal with the loss of a loved one.

On February 20, 2023, Mr. McDowell was arrested by the Sheriff's Department on the following charges: 245(d)(1) PC- Assault on a Peace Officer with Firearm, 664/187(a) PC – Attempted Murder, and 12022.1 PC- Commit Felony while on Bail or Release. He was booked into the Vista Detention Facility. Mr. McDowell resided in the city of Ramona at the time of his arrest.

The Citizen's Law Enforcement Review Board (CLERB) was notified of this incident.

As is the protocol for all in-custody deaths, the Sheriff's Homicide Unit will conduct a thorough investigation. The cause and manner of death will be determined by the Medical Examiner's Office.

Source: San Diego County Sheriff’s Department