Former Sierra County Behavioral Health Employee Arrested

Press Release by Sierra County Sheriff's Office

SIERRA COUNTY – September 7, 2023 – The Sierra County Sheriff's Office announced the arrest of Brandi Purvis, a former employee of Sierra County Behavioral Health, following a thorough investigation into allegations of identity theft, embezzlement, and larceny. The investigation, which began in April of 2023, revealed the misuse of authority by Mrs. Purvis, who allegedly exploited a vulnerable client for personal financial gain.

During the course of the investigation, Sierra County deputies uncovered compelling evidence that Brandi Purvis exerted undue influence in her position within the county to perpetrate a series of fraudulent activities. It is alleged that she illicitly accessed the victim's banking cards and subsequently made unauthorized purchases, amounting to thousands of dollars in merchandise, that was delivered to her residence.

In a coordinated effort, on September 6, 2023, Sierra County deputies traveled to Lassen County, CA, to execute an arrest and search warrant at Brandi Purvis' residence. During the execution of the search warrant, deputies recovered numerous items that had been purchased using the victim's stolen financial information.

Brandi Purvis was subsequently taken into custody and transported to the Plumas County Jail, where she was booked on numerous financial crimes.

Anyone with information relevant to this incident is encouraged to contact the Sierra County Sheriff’s Office at (530) 289-3700. The Sierra County Sheriff's Office remains committed to ensuring justice is served in this case.