April 30, 2025
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department is satisfied the court recognized we acted lawfully and professionally in a civil suit brought against the Department. The dismissal of all claims with prejudice affirms the Department’s commitment to upholding the rights and well-being of those in our custody.
On March 13, 2021, 24-year-old Casandra Pastora of Chino Hills was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon and battery, causing serious injury after attacking her father and a neighbor. She was booked at the West Valley Detention Center on felony charges.
During the booking process and medical screening, Pastora told the medical staff she was suicidal. She was immediately placed in a “safety cell,” where she was closely monitored and had immediate access to mental health professionals and the medical care team.
On March 15, 2021, Pastora harmed herself, and she was transported to a medical facility but died from her injuries.
In August 2021, Pastora’s father, Saeed Toghraie, filed a lawsuit in federal court in Riverside against retired Sheriff John McMahon, current Sheriff Shannon Dicus, and Captain Victor Moreno, who oversaw the facility at the time. The lawsuit claimed Pastora’s civil rights were violated due to poor jail conditions and lack of medical care.
On November 25, 2024, the court dismissed all claims against the defendants with prejudice, meaning the case cannot be refiled. The dismissal was made under Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 12(b)(6), which allows cases to be dismissed if they do not state a valid legal claim.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department is committed to providing the highest medical care and mental health support to those in our custody. In this case, we acted promptly, followed established protocols, and provided immediate access to medical and mental health services. We remain dedicated to the safety and well-being of all individuals entrusted to our care.
Below is the link to the original story.
Grieving Chino Hills father seeks answers to daughter’s death after mental break, arrest – Daily Bulletin
