Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, a leading candidate for governor of California, is embroiled in controversy following allegations from former jail commander Victoria Flores. Flores, who served nearly 30 years in the department, has filed a lawsuit claiming wrongful termination, retaliation, and civil rights violations. She alleges that Sheriff Bianco hid the causes of numerous jail deaths and created a culture of cover-up and retaliation.
According to the lawsuit, Flores was instructed by Bianco not to cooperate with a civil grand jury investigating jail conditions. She also claims that she was told not to leave a paper trail regarding a detainee’s overdose. The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court, highlights a series of alleged misconduct incidents, including deputies using excessive force without facing discipline.
The lawsuit comes amid an ongoing investigation by the California Attorney General into the department’s practices, following a record 19 detainee deaths in 2022. Flores’ lawsuit provides further evidence of alleged wrongdoing, including falsification of records and lack of accountability within the department.
Bianco’s department has faced scrutiny for its handling of jail conditions, and the lawsuit adds to the mounting pressure as he campaigns for governor. The sheriff’s department has not responded to requests for comment on the lawsuit. As the legal proceedings unfold, the allegations could impact Bianco’s political ambitions and the upcoming gubernatorial race.
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