On May 17, 2020, at about 9:45 p.m., deputies at the Vista Detention Facility were conducting a security check in one of the housing areas when they discovered an inmate, thirty-three-year-old Joseph Morton, hanging and unresponsive in his cell. Deputies immediately made entry into the cell to render aid. Deputies and medical staff performed lifesaving measures until relieved by paramedics. Despite their efforts, Morton was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Morton was booked into custody on May 11, 2020, by San Diego Sheriff’s deputies assigned to the North Coastal Station for:
211 PC – Robbery
273A(A) – Felony Child Cruelty
530.5(A) PC – Identity Theft
148(a)(1) PC – Resist Arrest
496(a) PC – Receiving Stolen Property
The Sheriff’s Homicide Unit responded to investigate the death. Morton was alone in his secure cell and no evidence of foul play was discovered.
The Medical Examiner completed their autopsy report and determined the cause of death to be from hanging, and the manner of death to be suicide.
Prepared by: Thomas Seiver, Lieutenant
Sheriff’s Homicide Unit (858) 285-6330
