Local 8 Headlines

Anderson County Sheriff looks for solution to jail overcrowding

Posted: 5:31 PM Apr 24, 2012
Reporter: Sharee Gilbert

Anderson County, Tenn. (WVLT) - More than 350 inmates call the Anderson County Jail home but only 266 have a place to rest their heads.

"That's a huge liability on the county and it challenges the staff. It causes fights and a lot of animosity between inmates and staff," said Avery Johnson, Chief Jailer.

Jail over crowding, it's a huge problem here, and the solution is right next door. A dormitory facility will sit empty once it's finished. All because there's no money to staff it.

"It's gonna take somewhere around probably $1.6 million," said Sheriff Paul White.

So, where's that money supposed to come from? The county isn't willing to come up with the cash. It would take a 14 cent property tax hike.

"It's frustrating, they're collecting money but now they need more money. Why not go with the original budget? We deserve some answers," said taxpayer Sherri Wallace.

"We will be decertified and then most likely we might be condemned by the fire marshal," said Sheriff White.

Even though county officials said the sheriff could make this work with simple staffing adjustments, he begs to differ.

"The county mayor is not the sheriff and he has no idea what functions we have to do here," said Sheriff White.

The county mayor is willing to offer 5 new jailers to work in the new facility but the sheriff said he needs 15.

Commissioners meet again next Tuesday. We'll let you know what they decide.