A 29-year-old Orange County Sheriff’s Deputy is out on bond after being arrested for reportedly sexually assaulting a female inmate earlier this year, officials announced Thursday.
In a news release department officials said they became aware of the alleged incident on Oct. 14 after a female inmate told jail staff that Deputy Leobardo Martinez Garcia assaulted her while she was receiving medical care in March at a local hospital, when she was in custody for a separate charge.
Authorities opened an investigation into the allegations, which included interviews, gathering digital evidence, and executing multiple search warrants.
“The investigation revealed information that led to the arrest of Martinez Garcia on Oct. 29, 2025,” the release noted. “Martinez Garcia was booked into Santa Ana Jail on suspicion of felony sexual battery and assault under the color of authority.”
The 29-year-old was placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.
“The alleged criminal conduct of this deputy is a violation of the oath to serve and protect our community, particularly those entrusted to our care in the Orange County Jail,” Orange County Sheriff Don Barnes said. “I could not be more disappointed in the actions of Mr. Martinez Garcia.”
The sheriff went on to assure community members that the alleged incident does not reflect the professional integrity of the hundreds of deputies and professional staff who work with those in custody.
Officials said the case would be referred to the Orange County District Attorney’s Office or the United States Attorney’s at the conclusion of the ongoing investigation.
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