TBI Jail population presents new challenges
A jail is a reflection of societal problems. “It’s a little city, a complex society,” Hubbard County Chief Deputy Frank Homer said of a jail. “Everything that’s on the inside, is on the outside.” What’s being seen “on the inside” has evolved over the decades. Jail administrator Sherri Klasen joined the staff in 1986, when “alcohol was the main contributing factor” to those who were incarcerated. “Now it’s drugs,” she said. “And a huge part of it is methamphetamines.” In addition to the increase of inmates incarcerated for drugs and alcohol the Hubbard County Jail is seeing an increase in those with symptoms of mental health problems, as well. “We were warned of this in the late ’90s,” Homer said. State funding was “falling short.” State hospitals would be closing. The patients were to be given medication and sent “home.” Law enforcement was cautioned the impending problems could fall in their lap. As secure facilities disappear, the jail is dealing with more inmates with mental health issues for longer periods of time, Klasen said. Nationally, correctional facilities are seeing more mental health problems, UMMHC executive director Manfred Tatzmann said.
Continue reading "TBI Jail population presents new challenges" »
