Sheriff Statement on 2019 Jail Death 

July 2, 2024 – San Diego County Sheriff’s Department officials release a statement from Sheriff Kelly A. Martinez regarding a settlement involving the in-custody death of Elisa Serna:

Elisa Serna died in Sheriff's custody on November 11, 2019.  Elisa Serna deserved better.  My sympathy goes to the Serna family and everyone who has been affected by this case, and I am glad that the County of San Diego and the family have reached a settlement. 

At the time of this incident, I was the Assistant Sheriff of Law Enforcement Services overseeing, among other areas, the Sheriff's Homicide Unit.  It was brought to my attention that the detective assigned to investigate Elisa's death believed some of our own staff and contracted medical providers could be criminally liable in the case.  I am grateful for the investigator's courage in bringing that information forward.  We submitted the investigation to the District Attorney's Office for review and prosecution and the case ultimately went to trial earlier this year. I am grateful to the District Attorney, the court, and the jury for their careful consideration during the criminal trial. 

When I was elected as Sheriff in November 2022, I attempted to meet with the Serna family, and they, perhaps understandably, did not respond to my efforts.  I am glad that part of this settlement will provide me the opportunity to meet with them and I hope that meeting brings them further closure. 

While the actions and decisions of a few individuals has been the focus of this case, our jail system has about 2,000 employees who provide for the safety and security of our jails.  They see to the needs of the incarcerated population, and work tirelessly behind the scenes providing tens of thousands of medical and mental health interactions for the more than 50,000 individuals processed through our jail system each year. 

There have been many changes and an incredible shift in priorities, approach, and processes in our jails since 2019.  As Sheriff I am committed to improving our jail system and ensuring the jails are safe for everyone who is incarcerated and for all our employees. I will continue to provide my staff with the training, tools, and equipment they need to do their jobs at the highest level.

Sheriff Kelly A. Martinez

Source: San Diego County Sheriff’s Department