In a case of law enforcement misconduct, former Alameda County sheriff's deputy Sarah Krause became embroiled in an inmate abuse scandal at the Santa Rita Jail. Along with other deputies, Krause was implicated in the “gassing” of inmates, a practice where bodily fluids, such as urine and feces, were thrown at prisoners. These acts were reportedly facilitated by deputies, who allowed certain inmates to abuse others in exchange for privileges like extra food or time outside their cells.
In January 2020, Krause pleaded no contest to felony assault under the color of authority for her role in the abuse. Her sentence included five years of probation and 240 hours of community service. The case highlighted severe misconduct within the correctional system, where those tasked with protecting inmates exploited their authority to inflict harm on vulnerable individuals.
