NewsFox 5 San Diego & KUSI — Local NewsAugust 11, 2026San Diego
San Diego County health officials report on Otay Mesa Detention Center conditions
San Diego County health officials released an inspection report for the Otay Mesa Detention Center, identifying concerns regarding delayed medical care and unreported cases of tuberculosis. The report follows a legal battle to gain access to the facility's health records.
Read the full story at Fox 5 San Diego & KUSI — Local NewsWhy It Matters
The report highlights potential gaps in medical oversight and infectious disease reporting at a major regional detention facility, impacting the health standards for detainees and staff.
Key Facts
- San Diego County health officials conducted an inspection of the Otay Mesa Detention Center.
- The inspection was released following a legal battle for access to the facility.
- The facility generally met state health standards according to the report.
- Inspectors identified concerns regarding unreported tuberculosis cases.
- Inspectors identified concerns regarding delayed medical care for detainees.
Who's Mentioned
personSayone Thihalolipavan“San Diego Public Health Officer who led the inspection.”personPaloma Aguirre“San Diego County Supervisor who advocated for the inspection.”personHeather Buonomo“San Diego County Director of Environmental Health.”locationSan Diego County“The local government body that conducted the inspection.”personTerra Lawson-Remer“San Diego County Supervisor who advocated for the inspection.”personAlex Padilla“U.S. Senator who attempted to inspect the facility.”otherCalifornia Health and Safety Code Section 10104“Legal basis for the county's health inspection.”locationOtay Mesa Detention Center“The facility subject to the health inspection.”other10104“Reference to the specific health code section.”personLauren Bis“Acting Assistant Secretary for the Department of Homeland Security.”