Alameda sheriff's deputy allegedly set up jail attack on inmate

Joseph Bailey, an Alameda County Sheriff’s deputy at Santa Rita Jail in Dublin, has been accused of coordinating an attack on an inmate, officials said. Joseph Bailey, an Alameda County Sheriff’s deputy at Santa Rita Jail in Dublin, has been accused of coordinating an attack on an inmate, officials said. Photo: Alameda County Sheriff’s Office / / Alameda County Sheriff’s Office Photo: Alameda County Sheriff’s Office / / Alameda County Sheriff’s Office Image 1 of / 28 Caption Close Alameda sheriff's deputy allegedly set up jail attack on inmate 1 / 28 Back to Gallery

An Alameda County Sheriff’s deputy suspected of playing a role in the attack of an inmate at the Santa Rita Jail was arrested Wednesday on suspicion felony assault, officials said.

Joseph Bailey, 28, of Tracy was additionally booked on suspicion of assault under the cover of authority in connection with a fight between inmates that occurred Oct. 24.

Bailey is accused of facilitating and allowing one group of prisoners to attack an inmate at the Dublin jail, according to a statement from the sheriff’s office.

“The moment I heard of these allegations, I directed my staff to do a complete and thorough investigation,” Sheriff Gregory Ahern said in a statement. “I am confident this single incident is isolated to this individual.”

Detectives interviewed about two dozen people connected to the case, including sheriff’s office employees and current and former inmates. Bailey was placed on leave during the internal affairs investigation, according to sheriff’s officials.

He is no longer in custody and already posted an unspecified bail, according to online records.