(16;29) SANTA CRUZ- A Santa Cruz County Coroner’s Investigation determined inmate Krista Deluca died in the county jail due to natural causes. Krista Deluca passed away On September 29, 2015 while in custody at the Santa Cruz County Jail. Krista had been arrested by Capitola Police Department for being under the influence of drugs, possession of drug paraphernalia and bench warrants. A forensic pathologist conducted an autopsy to determine the cause of death, which included toxicology and other laboratory tests. After reviewing all the evidence the forensic pathologist determined her death was the result of the following: Cause of Death: Acute aspiration pneumonia, dehydration, and probable electrolyte imbalance Due to: Protracted vomiting associated with opiate withdrawal Due to: Opiate dependence from chronic heroin abuse Manner of Death: Natural The investigation by the Coroner’s Unit determined Correctional Officers appropriately followed the jail’s policies and procedures.
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