PR03-022

Date:

September 2, 2003

 
Report Confirms Jail Needs More Security Personnel
 

Following an independent study of the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office by a Texas firm, the Fulton County Board of Commissioners released their finding and recommendations in a report issued earlier today.

The Community Safety Institute (CSI) of Texas, which conducted an on-site review of the Sheriff’s Office during the past three months has recommended a staffing increase of eighteen (18) full-time security positions, and civilianizing other positions at the county jail.

“Although I have not had a chance to study the entire report, it appears to address the concerns that I have regarding staffing and personnel issues with the jail,” Barrett said.“ I agree with the recommendation that eighteen full-time positions be added for security purposes.”

The Fulton County Sheriff’s Office has received numerous awards, including three national accreditations. While the department prides itself as the nation’s 23rd law enforcement agency to receive the prestigious Triple Crown award, Sheriff Barrett continues to struggle with judicial mandates, overcrowding, and budget issues that have prevented her control over key concerns like workload and deployment of personnel.

Sheriff Barrett will continue her review of CSI report, and plans to meet with the Board of Commissioners following their review of the report later this month.

For more information, please contact Lieutenant Clarence Huber at (404) 730-4148. Lieutenant Huber can also be reached on his digital pager at (404) 742-6798.