Recent Grand Jury Reports

File a Complaint

Many civil grand jury investigations begin with a citizen's complaint. If you believe a government agency or official in Yolo County is not acting in the public’s best interest, you may file a confidential complaint for review. Each submission is carefully evaluated to determine whether an investigation is warranted. 

To file a complaint, click here . Scroll down to Requesting a Grand Jury Investigation to see the instructions.

Esparto Fireworks Explosion: Officials Knew, None Acted

Released: March 26, 2026

In the evening of July 1, 2025, massive explosions obliterated a family farm located at the northwest corner of County Roads 23 and 86A in Esparto. This incident, commonly known as the Esparto Fireworks Explosion, claimed the lives of seven workers. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) officially named this incident the Oakdale Fire. Esparto is an unincorporated community of about 3,700 residents. Read the full report.

Continuing Progress: Yolo County Animal Services

Released: June 18, 2026

The civil grand jury completed an investigation of organizational and operational changes at the Yolo County Animal Services (YCAS) facility as well as reviewed responses to the “2024-2025 Grand Jury Report on Animal Services”. The Grand Jury reviewed the long-term difficulties at the shelter caused by underfunding, aging facilities, heavy reliance on volunteers for operational effectiveness, the small size of the facility compared to the size of the community served, and the number of animals for intake. Read the full report.

Unified Action: Strengthening the Yolo County Homelessness Response

Released: June 18, 2026

Pursuant to its oversight role, the civil grand jury conducted follow-up evaluations per the recommendations of prior years’ grand jury reports. The investigation included site inspections of Paul’s Place (Davis), Fourth & Hope (Woodland), and the Homeless Emergency Housing Program (West Sacramento). The grand jury recognizes these providers for maintaining high-quality, compassionate care despite significant capacity constraints and a persistent unhoused population. Read the full report.

Yolo County Detention Facilities: Correctional Officer staffing issues continue!

Released: June 18, 2026

The civil grand jury inspected the Yolo County Monroe Detention Facility (MDF) and the Walter J. Leinberger Detention Center (LDC) on December 4th, 2025. The Yolo County Juvenile Detention Facility (JDF) was inspected on November 20th, 2025. Read the full report.

Read the official responses.