CA AB1185

Authorizes counties to create a sheriff oversight board comprised of civilians, established either by board of supervisors action or county resident vote, to assist the board of supervisors in supervising the sheriff.

Members of the sheriff oversight board are appointed by the board of supervisors, with one member designated as chairperson.

Grants the oversight board chair authority to issue subpoenas and subpoenas duces tecum to examine witnesses, county officers, and documents related to the sheriff's department, enforceable through superior court proceedings.

Allows counties to establish an office of inspector general, appointed by the board of supervisors, with independent authority to issue subpoenas and assist with sheriff oversight duties.

Specifies that oversight board and inspector general investigative activities do not constitute obstruction of the sheriff's investigative functions.