News

Released: March 15, 2026 - Sunday, 11:55 AM

Inmate Death

Contact: Tony CipollaPhone: 805-781-4547Date and time of incident: 3-14-2026, Approximately 8:59 PMPlace of Occurrence: County JailVictim Information: Trenidad Castilleja, 48, San Luis ObispoSuspect Information: N/AOn 3-14-26, as medication was being dispensed to incarcerated persons at the County Jail, jail and health staff recognized an incarcerated person was in medical distress. Custody and nursing staff immediately attempted to render medical aid and CPR until paramedics arrived.

The inmate, identified as 48-year-old Trenidad Castilleja of San Luis Obispo, remained unresponsive and was pronounced deceased by paramedics at approximately 8:59 PM.

Castilleja was arrested by the San Luis Obispo Police Department on 12-18-2024 and had been in custody on three separate cases. Two cases had been resolved, and he was pending sentencing on the third at the time of his death. Castilleja had a long history of being booked into the jail with more than 24 such occurrences since 1998.

A cause of death is unknown until an autopsy can be performed. No foul play is suspected.

Next of kin has been notified. No further information is available at this time.