November 8, 2024 – Monterey County Sheriff’s Office officials report that a Deputy has been arrested for concealing a handmade weapon and committing criminal conspiracy while working inside the jail facility.

Deputy Gaspar Estevez was arrested and will be booked into the San Benito County Jail for multiple felonies.

The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office received a tip that a deputy had concealed a sharp-edged handmade weapon - commonly known as a shank - that was provided to him by an incarcerated person. Through the course of the investigation, Monterey County Sheriff’s Detectives developed probable cause to believe that a crime occurred, and that the deputy and the incarcerated person were both involved in the crime. Detectives were able to recover the weapon as part of their investigation.

"This behavior is a betrayal of public trust and breaks my heart. It jeopardizes the safety of both our employees and our incarcerated population whom we are entrusted to keep safe. Unfortunately, we sometimes have to police our own," said Monterey County Sheriff Tina Nieto. "This action of one individual is not a reflection of the values of the hard-working and dedicated men and women who have committed their lives to public safety. Our agency believes in our motto – Keeping the peace and earning your trust."

Deputy Estevez has been relieved of his duties and placed on administrative leave while the investigation continues, as per the protocol of this office.

Source: Monterey County Sheriff’s Office