The Honorable William L. Gordon
Presiding Judge, Superior Court
County of Santa Barbara
1100 Anacapa Street, 2nd Floor
Post Office Box 21107
Santa Barbara, California 93121-1107
RE: SANTA BARBARA COUNTY GRAND JURY 1995-96
INTERIM FINAL REPORT -- INMATE DEATH OF MAY 4, 1995
Dear Judge Gordon:
This is the required response to the Grand Jury's Interim Final Report regarding the death of inmate Drew Walsh. We have reviewed the Findings and Recommendations as presented in their report dated April 19, 1996. A claim has been filed by the decedent's family alleging wrongful death. It specifically indicates that it was filed as a result of information learned from the Grand Jury Report. This is a precursor to a lawsuit. At the appropriate time we intend to take issue with some of the findings and recommendations.
We consulted with County Counsel, and, upon their advice, we will not provide a detailed response until this matter is adjudicated.
Sincerely,
Jim Thomas
SHERIFF
JT:JD:jb
cc: Grand Jury Foreman
Chief Deputy County Counsel Steve Underwood