Richmond Sheriff Promises Cooperation on Jail Investigation
Yesterday morning, we reported that the ACLU had asked the Justice Department to investigate conditions at Richmond City jail, citing overcrowded and overheated conditions leading to one, possibly two deaths. Later in the day, Sheriff C.T. Woody responded. Charles Fishburne reports.
Sheriff Woody declined to be interviewed, but in a written statement, he made it clear he too was concerned about jail conditions; that the jail was built for 852 inmates, but houses 1400; that it was not originally equipped with air conditioning nor could it be added; that during the heat wave, he was limiting outside recreation and work details; that four times a day, ice was provided the residents; that large industrial fans were installed on each unit; that temperatures were monitored and triple-high bunking has eliminated inmates sleeping on the floor.
As to a possible Justice Department investigation, Sheriff Woody said he would ensure their full cooperation. The Sheriff has been lobbying for a new jail since he took office.
Charles Fishburne, WCVE News
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