In a recent Riverside County Board of Supervisors meeting, Sheriff Chad Bianco defended the transparency and operations of the Riverside County Sheriff's Office amid ongoing scrutiny regarding inmate deaths and law enforcement practices. Sheriff Bianco asserted that the agency is the most transparent in the nation, emphasizing that all requests for information from the Board have been met without hesitation.

Bianco addressed concerns raised by activists regarding the rising number of inmate deaths, particularly those attributed to suicides and fentanyl overdoses. He highlighted that in 2022, nine out of eighteen inmate deaths were linked to these issues, while also noting that the Sheriff's Office has implemented significant measures to combat drug smuggling and provide mental health care to inmates. He stated that despite the challenges, the agency has saved many lives, citing that they successfully intervened in 108 suicide attempts.

The Sheriff criticized what he described as politically motivated investigations and claims from activist groups, arguing that these narratives do not reflect the reality of the situation. He pointed out that Riverside County has had the lowest number of inmate deaths in Southern California over the past three years, a fact he believes has been overlooked by the media and activists.

During the meeting, Bianco also acknowledged the importance of oversight and collaboration with various state and federal agencies, asserting that the Sheriff's Office has consistently cooperated with investigations. He expressed pride in the partnership with Riverside University Health Systems, which provides medical and mental health care to inmates, and called for a balanced discussion about law enforcement practices.

The meeting underscored the ongoing tension between law enforcement and community activists, with Bianco urging for a focus on facts rather than emotions in discussions about public safety and inmate care. As Riverside County continues to navigate these complex issues, the Sheriff's Office remains committed to transparency and improving the conditions within its facilities.