FBI agents seize deputy sheriffs computer

August 4, 2008

By KAREN VELIE and DANIEL BLACKBURN

A San Luis Obispo County sheriff’s deputy is the target of an FBI investigation which has included a search of the deputy’s house and the seizure of his computer.

Bryan Goossens, a 20-year employee of the sheriff’s department, was placed on paid administrative leave July 11 by Sheriff Pat Hedges.

Additional information about the ongoing federal investigation is currently unavailable. FBI and sheriff’s officials declined comment on Goossens’ situation.

Eight days after being placed on leave, Goossens caused a five-car accident in Atascadero. According to a police report, a witness substantiated Goossens’ claim that he was driving at “normal speeds.” Contacted by CalCoastNews.com, the witness, Iris Florez, said she did not notice Goossens’ pickup truck prior to its slamming into four parked vehicles and rolling over twice. According to the report, police did not cite the suspended deputy.

The official report on the incident apparently failed to travel through normal channels. Officer Scott Pipan said he generally sees all traffic reports, but more than a week after Goossens’ mishap, Pipan said he knew nothing about it.

Prior to the search of his home, Goossens worked patrol duty out of the sheriff’s Templeton office. Hired in 1988, Goossens spent three years working as a corrections officer before becoming a deputy in 1991.

Goossens hung up on a reporter and has not responded to requests for comment.