Santa Barbara, Calif. – One Sheriff’s Deputy, two Custody Deputies and two inmates have tested positive for COVID-19. The Sheriff’s Deputy last worked on December 16, 2020, began experiencing symptoms December 18, 2020, was tested on December 19, 2020 and found to be positive for COVID-19 December 21, 2020. The deputy did not have contact with the public.

The first Custody Deputy last worked on December 17, 2020, became symptomatic on December 18, 2020, and was tested and found to be COVID-19 positive today. The second Custody Deputy last worked on December 18, 2020, became symptomatic on December 19, 2020, and was tested and found to be positive for COVID-19 today. Both Custody Deputies consistently wore a mask while at work. This brings the total number of Sheriff’s Office employees who have tested positive for COVID-19 to 69, with 50 having recovered and returned to work.

Two inmates were found to be positive for COVID-19 during the intake screening process. One of the inmates came into custody last night and the other was received today. Both inmates are being housed in negative-air pressure housing areas, separate from the general population.