The Orange County Sheriff's Department arrested a deputy for allegedly sexually assaulting a female inmate.

Deputy Leobardo Martinez Garcia, 29, was booked for felony sexual battery and assault under the color of authority. The department placed him on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.

"The alleged criminal conduct of this deputy is a violation of the oath to serve and protect our community, particularly those entrusted to our care in the Orange County Jail," Orange County Sheriff Don Barnes said. "I could not be more disappointed in the actions of Mr. Martinez Garcia."

The department began its investigation on Oct. 14 after a female inmate told Orange County Jail staff that Martinez Garcia had assaulted her while she was in custody for a separate charge in

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