Sheriff’s Deputy Found Nude to Remain in Hospital Ward

A 34-year-old sheriff’s deputy who was found wandering naked in the hallways of the Glendale Courthouse will remain in the psychiatric ward of an undisclosed local hospital for at least 72 hours, sheriff’s officials said.

A sheriff’s spokeswoman said the deputy, whose name has not been released, “became extremely ill and disoriented” and was apparently suffering from a nervous breakdown when fellow deputies found him disrobed in the halls of the courthouse at 600 E. Broadway shortly before 5 p.m. Tuesday. Firefighters then took him to the hospital.

Sheriff’s officials said they do not know what caused the man’s behavior.

The deputy is an eight-year veteran of the Sheriff’s Department and worked in its court services office at the Glendale building. Deputies at the Glendale office refused comment, saying the matter was being handled privately.

Sheriff’s officials said the deputy could be released from the hospital as early as tonight, pending the results of his mental evaluation. He has been relieved of his duties with pay, and has not been charged with any wrongdoing.

Deputies would not say whether the naked man was seen by courthouse patrons. The incident occurred during business hours, but after all courtrooms had adjourned and the building was mostly empty, employees said.