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June 17, 2009

NO VACANCY

Sheriff dealing with overcrowded jail

By Krystal J. Carman

June 17, 2009 — The Rogers County Jail is maxed out with more than 200 inmates per day and barely room to house them all.

Thanks to the newly approved jail budget, which includes a boost of $100,000 taken from an existing certificate of deposit, Sheriff Scott Walton can now buy additional bunks for inmates, as well as make improvements to the 9-year-old facility.

“The exterior and interior of the building are in need of repair,” he told the Rogers County Criminal Justice Authority Board recently. “With this additional money, we can purchase six bunks, which will equal 18 new beds. We can also tend to the maintenance issues in the building.”

When speaking about the budget needs, Walton told the board the jail needs two additional tower guards and another correctional officer to meet the needs of the size of the inmate population. Since shortly before Memorial Day, the jail population has hovered at 200 or above, peaking at 228 inmates.

Also a concern when speaking of the $2.6 million budget were updates and improvements inside the jail.

Walton reported an industrial-type dryer used for laundry often sets off the smoke alarm and needs to be replaced.

Assistant Jail Administrator Don Coppinger said the jail was originally equipped to accommodate two washers and two dryers, but only one of each is currently installed.

“We have the space for and could use another washer and dryer, but this one needs replaced,” he said.

Nearly a decade old, the jail building itself is beginning to show signs of wear and tear.

Plumbing concerns have gotten Walton’s attention and need to be upgraded. In addition, new appliances in the kitchen are needed and additional medical equipment is a necessity.

All of the maintenance upgrades and improvements will be funded from $100,000 Walton was allowed to withdraw from an existing CD. According to Walton, there is $233,000 remaining in the CD, which the board stated he could withdraw if necessary.

“Sheriff, if you need something, don’t just leave yourself hanging out there,” said Commissioner Mike Helm. “That’s your money and if you need it, we can amend the budget.”

With the new additions and improvements to the jail, including new employees, Walton said 225 inmates could be adequately housed inside the jail. The average cost to house inmates is $10,585.81 per month.

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