Press Release: Update to Monterey County Jail Power Outage

DATE/TIME: 7/16/25 at 2:25 PM

TYPE OF INCIDENT: Update to Monterey County Jail Power Outage

LOCATION: 1410 Natividad Road, Salinas, California

MEDIA CONTACT: Andres Rosas, Commander 831-261-5492 rosasae@countyofmonterey.gov

The Monterey County Jail continues to operate on emergency power generators that have been providing limited power to the jail facility after a power safety issue was discovered by PG&E.

On July 12th, 2025, The Monterey County Jail became aware that PG&E had discovered there was an issue with the meter that services the jail facility. A pre-planned power outage was scheduled to attempt to identify the issue impacting the meter.

On Tuesday July 15th, 2025, at about 10:00 AM, the power was shut off by PG&E to address the meter issue. During that process, PG&E discovered a power safety issue at the jail facility that necessitated power be shut off until appropriate repairs could be made. Emergency power generators were activated at that time.

The current power disruption has resulted in the temporary closure of the Monterey County Jail to the public. This closure is necessary to ensure operational safety and security of the incarcerated population and jail staff. All jail visits are currently cancelled. We understand the importance of communication between our incarcerated population and their friends and family, and we are evaluating this situation to restore visitations as soon as arrangements can be made. During this time, access to the incarcerated persons communication tablets is being maximized for communication purposes, while still maintaining safety and security within the facility.

We are continuing to work with our county partners to identify and isolate the power safety issue and restore the jail facility to full power as quickly as possible. Safety and security of our incarcerated population and jail staff currently continues to be of the upmost priority.