San Diego County Threatens Licensing Action Against Otay Mesa Detention Center Over Alleged TB Case Concealment

San Diego, CA, September 17, 2026 — San Diego County officials have announced potential licensing action against the Otay Mesa Detention Center, citing allegations of concealed public health violations. The core of the concern revolves around the alleged failure by the detention center to report a suspected tuberculosis case within the legally mandated 24-hour period.

According to county officials, the detention facility reportedly waited for three weeks before reporting the suspected tuberculosis incident. This delay has raised significant alarms regarding the facility’s adherence to public health protocols and its commitment to transparency.

The situation is further complicated by an ongoing legal dispute. San Diego County is currently involved in a lawsuit aimed at securing its oversight authority over the detention center. The alleged breach in reporting protocols is seen by county authorities as exacerbating concerns about the facility’s management and its cooperation with public health requirements.

The specific details regarding the tuberculosis case itself, including the number of individuals potentially exposed or the outcome of any subsequent investigations into the case, were not immediately provided. Similarly, the exact nature of the threatened licensing action and the timeline for any potential penalties remain unspecified at this time.

County officials have emphasized the importance of timely reporting for communicable diseases to protect both the incarcerated population and the wider community. The alleged delay in reporting this suspected TB case by the Otay Mesa Detention Center is viewed as a critical lapse in these essential public health procedures.

Story summarized from the original created by City News Service on www.kpbs.org, see more information here.

Media gallery