In a tragic turn of events, a 19-year-old man identified as Jesus Gonzales took his own life at the Bexar County Jail, located on the 200 block of North Comal Street in San Antonio. Gonzales, who was in custody following an arrest by the San Antonio Police Department on a family violence warrant, was found dead on Sunday afternoon.

Lapses in Security Protocol

According to Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar, it is standard department policy to conduct strip searches on individuals in custody for felony offenses. However, in this instance, deputies did not utilize a body scanner prior to the strip-search procedure. Sheriff Salazar expressed shock at the breach in security, stating that it was the first instance he could recall where a gun had made its way into the jail.

Salazar revealed that Gonzales was undergoing a strip-search when the tragic incident occurred. Despite being patted down before the search, Gonzales managed to conceal a weapon within his clothing, ultimately using it to take his own life.

Investigation and Response

Following the incident, the deputy involved, who has less than five years of experience with the sheriff’s office, has been placed on administrative leave as per protocol. The Bexar County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) has initiated an internal investigation to review the circumstances leading up to Gonzales’s death.

Additionally, the San Antonio Police Department’s Homicide Unit is conducting its own investigation into the shooting, with the department’s Internal Affairs unit conducting a concurrent inquiry. The SAPD has made its policy regarding the searching of prisoners available for review.

Ensuring Safety and Accountability

The tragic suicide of Jesus Gonzales at the Bexar County Jail underscores the importance of rigorous security protocols and thorough procedures in correctional facilities. As investigations continue into the events leading up to Gonzales’s death, authorities are tasked with not only ensuring the safety of individuals in custody but also maintaining accountability within law enforcement agencies. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges faced in maintaining security in correctional settings.

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