Tara K. McGrath, U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of California
A federal court in San Diego has unsealed a two-count indictment against Sheriff's Deputy Jeremiah Manuyag Flores. The charges allege that Flores violated the civil rights of a pretrial detainee, identified as 57-year-old J.P., by using excessive force and subsequently falsifying a report to conceal his actions.
According to the indictment, on August 29, 2024, Flores was assigned to the Court Services Bureau at the San Diego Central Courthouse. He allegedly pushed J.P., who was restrained with chains, into a holding cell, causing him to collide with the bench and walls before collapsing. Despite witnessing this incident, Flores reportedly failed to inform his supervisor or file an official report immediately.
The indictment further states that another deputy discovered J.P. over two hours later with serious injuries including a head wound and spinal injury, which required surgery and prolonged hospitalization. Flores is accused of falsely stating in an incident report that "no force was used" during the encounter.
U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath emphasized that while most law enforcement officers are dedicated public servants committed to upholding the law, any violation of civil rights will be prosecuted vigorously. San Diego FBI Special Agent in Charge Stacey Moy added that such actions undermine public trust in law enforcement.
Flores appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge David D. Leshner where he pleaded not guilty to both charges. He was released on a $25,000 bond under conditions including surrendering his passport and firearms. A motion hearing is scheduled for March 10, 2025.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Askins is prosecuting the case with investigations conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and San Diego County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Unit.
