Deputy Arcadio Rodriguez Arrested For Allegedly Sexually Assaulting Two Female Inmates At The Theo Lacy Facility
ORANGE, CALIFORNIA (August 14, 2022) – An Orange County Sheriff’s deputy identified as Arcadio Rodriguez was arrested on suspicion of sexually assaulting female inmates at the Theo Lacy Facility.
Orange County police officials are saying that the deputy was arrested on Friday, August 12. Deputy Arcadio Rodriguez is accused of having inappropriate relationships with two female inmates going back to May.
The police officer is accused of touching both of the women over their clothes and showing them pornography. Officers booked Arcadio Rodriguez into the Santa Ana Jail.
The deputy has been with the sheriff’s department since September 2021. A full investigation remains ongoing at this time.
Liability For Orange County Inmate Sexual Assaults
Inmate sexual assault is far more common than many people may realize. According to one 2012 Justice Department report, there are more than 20,000 instances of inmate sexual assault that occur every year. Female inmates are 30 times more likely to be sexually assaulted in custody than women who are not incarcerated. Pursuant to California Penal Code 289.6, it is illegal for parole officers to have sex with inmates. There are a number of steps that correctional facilities can take in order to reduce instances of sexual assault.
- Correctional officers should be properly trained.
- Jails should be adequately staffed.
- Correctional officers should be adequately monitored.
Depending on the facts of any case, a jail could be liable if an inmate is sexually assaulted in their care. The Eighth Amendment imposes a duty upon prison staff to protect prisoners from sexual abuse. Jails can be liable for correctional officers that sexually assault inmates. Jails must adequately supervise correctional officers and may be liable for reasonably foreseeable sources of harm that result from inadequate supervision. There are a number of steps that should be taken after any instance of sexual assault.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- Medical records should be sought.
- Eyewitnesses should be interviewed.
- A thorough, independent investigation should be conducted.
Any person that is sexually assaulted by a correctional officer while incarcerated may have legal recourse through a civil claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills, and pain and suffering. Sadly, though, jails will do everything in their power to deny liability for the criminal actions of their officers. An Orange County sexual assault attorney can examine the unique facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Sexual Assault At The Theo Lacy Facility
We at TorkLaw extend our best wishes to the women who may have been harmed by the actions of deputy Arcadio Rodriguez. Any person that may have more information about what happened should reach out to investigators. The allegations that have been made are deeply disturbing. There needs to be a thorough investigation for the sake of all of the victims.
Have you or someone that you care about been sexually abused while incarcerated? There are a number of laws designed to protect your rights. Our team of sexual assault attorneys are here to help with whatever you need. We care deeply that victims of sexual assault are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need any type of help we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (888) 441-4991.
