Former Sheriff's Deputy Sentenced for Inmate Abuse

Joshua Fischer, a former San Luis Obispo County sheriff's deputy, has been sentenced to seven months in federal prison for abusing a female inmate in November 2018. Fischer pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor count of deprivation of rights under color of law, admitting to using excessive force by dragging the inmate by her hair and throwing her into a cell. The incident occurred after an argument escalated when the inmate resisted his instructions to move to another cell. U.S. District Judge André Birotte Jr. criticized Fischer's actions as showing 'callousness' and 'disdain' for the victim. Fischer's employment was terminated prior to the charges being filed, and he agreed not to seek future law enforcement positions as part of his plea deal. The case highlights ongoing concerns regarding inmate treatment and accountability within correctional facilities.