San Diego, January 1, 2026
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department has confirmed that Steven Curren, a 35-year-old man who died while in custody, succumbed to natural causes linked to hypertensive cardiovascular disease. This incident has raised concerns about the treatment of inmates and the Sheriff’s Department’s accountability following ongoing scrutiny of in-custody deaths in the region. The case is under investigation with oversight from the Citizens’ Law Enforcement Review Board.
San Diego Sheriff’s Department Releases Cause of August In-Custody Death
Understanding Recent Developments and Community Concerns
San Diego, CA – The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department has confirmed the cause and manner of death for Steven Curren, a 35-year-old man who passed away while in custody on August 30, 2025. This announcement follows an autopsy revealing that Curren succumbed to natural causes stemming from complications due to hypertensive cardiovascular disease, with contributing factors that include asthma, chronic alcohol use, and obesity. Curren had been in custody since August 29 on charges of vehicle theft and possession of stolen property. The Sheriff’s Office has expressed its condolences to Curren’s family and is providing support through a family liaison officer. This incident is currently under investigation by the Sheriff’s Homicide Unit, with oversight by the Citizens’ Law Enforcement Review Board (CLERB). The case has raised questions about the Sheriff’s Department’s handling of in-custody deaths, which have been a point of scrutiny in light of previous incidents.
Background on In-Custody Deaths in San Diego County
San Diego County has been facing scrutiny for its rate of in-custody deaths, which has been reported as being higher than other large California counties. A 2022 audit by the California State Auditor’s Office identified significant shortcomings in the Sheriff’s Department’s care and protection of incarcerated individuals, highlighting systemic issues that need addressing. In a robust initiative to improve conditions, the Sheriff’s Office has committed to a $500 million effort aimed at modernizing and upgrading its jails. However, some critics remain skeptical about whether these measures will adequately resolve the ongoing concerns.
Recent Developments in Sheriff’s Accountability
In a notable development in December 2025, a federal jury found San Diego Sheriff’s Deputy Jeremiah Manuyag Flores guilty of using excessive force against an inmate and subsequently falsifying records to mask those actions. This conviction underscores the pressing concerns surrounding the accountability and operational practices within the Sheriff’s Department, particularly regarding the treatment of inmates and the prevention of in-custody deaths.
Legal and Community Oversight
The investigations into in-custody deaths within San Diego County not only reflect the current challenge of maintaining safety and health standards in jails but also highlight the importance of community oversight. The active role played by organizations such as CLERB is essential in ensuring a transparent evaluation of law enforcement practices. Community input and oversight are vital in assuring that the rights and well-being of all individuals are upheld within the legal system.
Efforts Towards Improvement and Transparency
Despite criticisms, the Sheriff’s Department’s financial commitment to jail upgrades and training initiatives are steps in the right direction. Ongoing auditing and reform efforts are crucial for building trust with the community and ensuring that inmates receive proper care. While financial investments are necessary, public trust will largely depend on the efficacy of these changes and the improvement of conditions inside detention facilities.
Conclusion
The San Diego Sheriff’s Department faces considerable challenges regarding in-custody deaths and the overall treatment of inmates. Although the announcement regarding Steven Curren’s death highlights ongoing issues within the system, it also serves as an opportunity for necessary reform. San Diegans are encouraged to remain informed and engaged as the community navigates these pressing issues and strives for a more accountable and humane approach to law enforcement and incarceration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was the cause of Steven Curren’s death?
The San Diego County Medical Examiner determined that Steven Curren died of natural causes due to complications from hypertensive cardiovascular disease, with contributing factors including asthma, chronic alcohol use, and obesity.
What charges was Steven Curren facing at the time of his death?
Steven Curren had been in custody since August 29, 2025, on charges of vehicle theft and possession of stolen property.
What actions is the Sheriff’s Department taking in response to this incident?
The Sheriff’s Office has extended condolences to Steven Curren’s family and is providing support through a family liaison officer. The incident is under investigation by the Sheriff’s Homicide Unit, with oversight from the Citizens’ Law Enforcement Review Board (CLERB).
How does this case relate to previous in-custody deaths in San Diego County?
This case adds to ongoing scrutiny of the Sheriff’s Department’s handling of in-custody deaths, following previous incidents and audits highlighting systemic issues.
What is the Sheriff’s Department doing to address concerns about in-custody deaths?
The Sheriff’s Office has committed to a $500 million effort to modernize and upgrade its jails, but critics question whether these efforts adequately address the problem.
Key Features of the In-Custody Death of Steven Curren
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Decedent’s Name | Steven Curren |
| Age | 35 |
| Date of Death | August 30, 2025 |
| Location | San Diego Central Jail |
| Cause of Death | Natural causes due to complications from hypertensive cardiovascular disease |
| Contributing Factors | Asthma, chronic alcohol use, obesity |
| Charges at Time of Death | Vehicle theft, possession of stolen property |
| Investigation Status | Under investigation by Sheriff’s Homicide Unit, with oversight from CLERB |
| Department’s Response | Extended condolences, providing support through family liaison officer |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
