SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- On Tuesday, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors approved a proposal meant to strengthen accountability and transparency within the San Diego County Sheriff's Office (SDSO) by establishing an independent oversight body.

The proposal, which was introduced by Vice Chair Monica Montgomery Steppe, suggests creating an Office of Inspector General (OIG) to monitor and review SDSO operations.

Once created, the OIG would have the authority to monitor conditions in county-operated jails, medical and mental health services, and staff conduct. There have been 9 in-custody deaths within detention facilities, according to the latest data available from the department on Oct. 16.

It would also have the power to conduct internal audits, initiate investigations, recommend

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