Death Investigation
March 1, 2026 – San Diego County Sheriff's Office officials report that they are releasing the cause and 
manner of death of 44-year-old Brandon Pleffner, who was in custody at the San Diego Central Jail (SDCJ). On Sunday, November 16, 2025, Sheriff's Homicide investigators were notified of Mr. Pleffner's passing while he was in custody at SDCJ.
On November 16, 2025, at approximately 7:05 a.m., Sheriff's Deputies at SDCJ were performing their routine duties when they discovered Mr. Pleffner unresponsive inside his assigned cell. Upon observing the situation, the deputies immediately activated 9-1-1, requested additional assistance from the facility's medical staff, and began lifesaving measures.
Paramedics and the San Diego Fire Department continued lifesaving measures upon their arrival. Despite their efforts, Mr. Pleffner was pronounced deceased at the facility at approximately 7:35 a.m.
The Medical Examiner’s Office has completed an autopsy and determined that Mr. Pleffner’s cause of death was the toxic effects of fentanyl and methamphetamine. Mild cardiomegaly was identified as a contributing factor. The manner of death was ruled accidental.
The Medical Examiner’s findings are consistent with chronic, long‑term physiological changes associated with repeated substance exposure. These types of changes have been documented in individuals with a history of chronic drug use. Based on the death investigation and the Medical Examiner’s report, there is no indication of substance consumption following Mr. Pleffner’s arrest.
Mr. Pleffner had been in Sheriff's custody since November 8, 2025, and was facing charges related to shoplifting with priors.
The San Diego Sheriff's Office extends our sympathies to the Pleffner family and all those affected by his passing. A Sheriff's Family Liaison Officer will continue to support the family as they navigate through this difficult time.
The Citizens' Law Enforcement Review Board (CLERB) was notified regarding the incident. As is the protocol for all in-custody deaths, the Sheriff's Homicide Unit responded and is conducting a thorough investigation to ensure all aspects of this incident are examined.
Source: San Diego County Sheriff's Office
