Overview
On October 24, 2023, Deputy Marvin Morales was found unresponsive at the Sacramento County Sheriff's Department, prompting an investigation that revealed intentional narcotics use with evidence seized during a prior call. Internal affairs later determined ongoing substance use; Morales resigned before termination action could be taken.
Incident Discovery and Response
- Deputy Morales was found unresponsive in a restroom by a colleague at approximately 8:00 p.m.
- Deputies attempted life-saving measures, including a sternal rub, and called paramedics.
- Morales was transported to a hospital for further treatment.
Investigation and Evidence Collection
- Deputies learned Morales had collected narcotics earlier that evening during an on-duty call.
- Bodycam footage confirmed Morales seized a foil packet containing narcotics from a suspect at a Shell gas station.
- Morales stored the seized narcotics in a glove inside his cruiser.
- During the investigation, deputies could not originally locate the evidence in his vehicle but later found it in his clothing at the hospital.
- A glass pipe and torch lighter were found in the restroom stall where Morales collapsed.
- Hospital tests revealed at least 90 days of prior narcotics use.
Internal Affairs Findings
- Investigators found Morales had previously cited individuals for possession of paraphernalia but admitted to retaining and using a pipe from these incidents.
- The investigation concluded Morales intentionally used seized narcotics on October 24, 2023.
Outcomes and Personnel Actions
- On January 1, 2024, internal investigators recommended Morales for termination.
- Morales resigned formally on February 2, 2024, before the termination process was completed.
Decisions
- Recommend Deputy Morales for termination due to intentional narcotics use (January 1, 2024).
Action Items
- TBD – Internal Affairs: Complete documentation and case closure following Morales' resignation.