A former Deschutes County Sheriff’s captain has resigned and an internal investigation is underway regarding his conduct and the conduct of another employee, according to Sheriff Larry Blanton.

Capt. Mike Espinoza, 45, formerly a captain at the Deschutes County jail, resigned from the Sheriff’s Office effective Monday, Nov. 25, according to an email Blanton sent to all Sheriff’s Office employees.

Blanton said Espinoza’s resignation was voluntary and added that it is normal for agencies to have personnel changes.

“We do have an internal investigation in relation to potential policy violation either on, or off, duty,” Blanton said. “We have not yet concluded anything and it is not uncommon for us to remind people of correct policies or procedures.”

Blanton’s email also indicates another Sheriff’s Office employee, Jennifer Lawrence, has been placed on “paid administrative leave pending an internal affairs investigation relating to alleged on-duty and off-duty conduct.”

Espinoza was employed by the Sheriff’s Office for more than 20 years prior to his resignation. Most recently, Espinoza held the position of jail commander.

Department of Public Safety Standards and Training Director Eriks Gabliks said his agency isn’t aware of the nature of the investigation concerning Espinoza.

“If the investigation isn’t complete we wouldn’t know anything about it,” he said.

Espinoza could not be reached for comment.

Sheriff’s Lt. Tracy Jones and Capt. Shane Nelson will fill in for Espinoza regarding jail operations and the jail upgrade construction project that is underway.

— Reporter: 541-383-0376, sking@bendbulletin.com