Stanislaus deputy sheriff arrested, accused of stealing from inmates’ fund

Authorities on Tuesday arrested a deputy who served at the Stanislaus County jail, alleging he stole money that belonged to inmates.

Jose Pacheco, a nine-year veteran custodial deputy with the Stanislaus County Sheriff's Department, was arrested on charges of felony grand theft and burglary.

According to a news release, detectives started an investigation into the theft of money from the Inmate Welfare Fund last month. Investigators believe more than $9,000 was stolen; they identified Pacheco as the employee responsible.

The money deposited in the fund by families of those in the custody of the sheriff is used for the benefit, education and welfare of the inmates. The money is used in programs designed to provide educational, vocational and rehabilitative opportunities.

“To protect the public’s trust and confidence in us, we will always hold our employees accountable to the community we serve and to the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics,” Sheriff Adam Christianson said.

Pacheco was booked at the Stanislaus County jail on suspicion of felony grand theft and burglary. He has been placed on administrative leave. Authorities provided no further details, citing personnel reasons.

This story was originally published June 23, 2015 at 12:59 PM with the headline "Stanislaus deputy sheriff arrested, accused of stealing from inmates’ fund."