The Santa Clara County Sheriffs Department said they have arrested two nurses on suspicion of stealing inmate medications and using them for unknown purposes.   A department spokesperson said Rodolfo Idian and Elmer Alegado were arrested last week after an extensive investigation.    The investigation was launched late last month.  The defendants were reportedly found to be in "possession of controlled substances" beyond the scope of their work duties.

Both nurses had been assigned to work at the San Jose jail.  It is currently unclear if the pair were acting together or individually.    Authorities have also indicated they believe other nurses may have also been stealing medications but no further arrests have been made.

Jail supervisory staff said medications are typically stored in locked containers and medications that are not used are to be immediately returned to the dispenser.  The investigation was launched when they become aware that this protocol was not  being followed.

The Santa Clara County Sheriffs Department said that although they are disappointed to find out jail staff has been stealing medications they are pleased with the thorough nature of the investigation.  The only way to retain the faith and trust of the public, they said, is to make sure the inner workings of the San Jose jail remain transparent.