Special Operations Division
The Special Operations Division was led during 2008 by Division Chief Richard Monroy and Assistant Chief David Williams. The division investigates complex cases involving misuse of public funds; political corruption; hate crimes; and misconduct of government officials, including police officers. The division reviews all officer-involved shootings and in-custody deaths.
The Office of the District Attorney has conducted reviews of all officer-involved
shootings (OIS) in the line of duty by San Diego County peace officers
since the mid-1970s. The purpose of the District Attorney’s review
is to provide an independent review of all shootings and other use of deadly
force, fatal and non-fatal, to assure the public that peace officers in
San Diego County are performing their duties in a legally-justified manner.
This review does not examine such issues as compliance with the policies and procedures of any law enforcement agency, ways to improve training, or any issues related to civil liability. Upon completion of the District Attorney's review, a letter summarizing the facts and statements of the deputy or officer and other witnesses is written and delivered to the respective police chief or San Diego County Sheriff. During 2008, the division completed reviews of 21 officer-involved shootings and 9 in-custody deaths.
During 2008, the division had more than 135 open investigations. The division continues to employ the criminal grand jury for investigation of public corruption and violations of election laws. On-duty police officer misconduct and corruption cases are also investigated and prosecuted by the Special Operations Division.
The division’s Professional Standards Unit handles all in-house investigations and background checks for potential employees. During 2008, the unit performed 230 such background checks meeting standardized policy and procedure.
In addition, the division has Tribal and International Liaisons, who are called upon to assist with cases in other District Attorney Divisions or branches.
During 2008, 13 criminal cases were filed and prosecuted by the Special
Operations Division, including:
People v. Jesse Macias
Jesse Macias was employed with the San Diego Unified School District as
construction project supervisor. In May of 2008, Mr. Macias was found
guilty of charges related to the theft of funds from recycling school
district property.
