County Announces Actions, Leadership Transition After Release of Misconduct Claims in Behavioral Health Services

August 26, 2026

The San Diego County government has publicly released findings from investigations into employee misconduct, including substantiated claims of racism and sexism that violated county values. Chief Administrative Officer Ebony Shelton emphasized zero tolerance for such behavior and committed to upholding the highest standards of public service. As a direct result of these findings, the county implemented a leadership change in its Behavioral Health Services department, with Director Nadia Privara departing and Jennifer Bransford-Koons assuming temporary leadership.

Who is affected

County of San Diego employees and executive team
Nadia Privara (former Director of Behavioral Health Services who departed)
Jennifer Bransford-Koons (temporary leader of Behavioral Health Services)
Chief Administrative Officer Ebony Shelton
Vulnerable residents served by Behavioral Health Services
County employees who reported the misconduct
The general public served by San Diego County

What action is being taken

The County is publicly releasing investigation findings
County executive leadership is conducting a closer examination of processes to strengthen decision-making, accountability, and leadership conduct
A transition plan is being developed to ensure Behavioral Health Services continue without disruption
A hiring process for a new permanent Behavioral Health Services leader is being conducted
The County's Office of Ethics, Compliance and Labor Standards is investigating reported misconduct

Why it matters

This matters because it addresses serious violations of public trust within a government agency responsible for serving vulnerable community members, particularly through Behavioral Health Services. The public disclosure and leadership changes demonstrate accountability in county government and reinforce that racism, sexism, and other misconduct will not be tolerated in public service. The situation also validates that the county's ethics reporting system functions effectively, which is crucial for maintaining integrity and encouraging future reports of wrongdoing. Additionally, these actions are essential for upholding public confidence in government institutions and ensuring equitable treatment of both employees and residents.

What's next

The County anticipates additional substantiated findings and will address them under the same accountability standard
The hiring process for a permanent Behavioral Health Services leader will be conducted
The transition plan for Behavioral Health Services will be implemented

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint