Most institutions and businesses in Richmond are proud to show off their workplaces.

I’ve been all over Chevron. I’ve toured Sims Metal, Amazon, Blue Apron, Williams-Sonoma, State of California Public Health Laboratory – no problem. All the WCCUSD schools in Richmond, the UC Berkeley Richmond Field Station – seen them all. I even have a General Services Administration pass to the most secure place in Richmond, the Frank Hagel Federal Building.

But when I asked to see the West County Detention Center, the sheriff turned me down -- flat. "Accordingly, at this time, your request for a tour is denied."

All I can figure is he must have something to hide.