Introduction to the Dallas County Jail Inspection
The Dallas County jail recently failed a state inspection due to complaints about the treatment of two incarcerated individuals. According to the findings, the Texas Commission on Jail Standards found Dallas County noncompliant for keeping two men in holding cells for approximately two and a half days each, exceeding the 48-hour maximum allowed. Although not factored into the noncompliance finding, the commission noted that the jail failed to provide one of the men with his prescribed medication on two mornings.
Background of the Inspection
The inspection was conducted after receiving complaints in April and May. The commission performed an off-site inspection of jail paperwork, a narrower review compared to the comprehensive inspections that occur every 24 months. The state informed Dallas County of the noncompliance on July 30 and published the findings on Wednesday. One of the complaints, obtained by The News, described a woman’s loved one being "treated like a dog" while in the holding cell, without access to his electronic tablet, commissary items, or laundry.
History of Dallas County Jail Inspections
The findings add to the spotty history Dallas County has had with special and regular state inspections. Over the past 10 years, the state has found the jail noncompliant in 2018, 2021, and twice in 2022. These instances included neglecting to conduct regular observations of suicidal individuals, not providing personal hygiene items, paper, and pencils to write to attorneys, and filing observation logs that did not match video footage, among other violations.
Response from Sheriff Marian Brown
In an interview, Sheriff Marian Brown noted that the July 22 inspection was not a comprehensive check of compliance with all standards but a narrower review of two specific complaints. She stated that the jail has informed the jail standards commission of steps taken to prevent such occurrences from happening again. Brown emphasized the importance of following standards, acknowledging the challenge of meeting hundreds of standards and the potential for any single standard to put the jail out of compliance.
Dallas County Sheriff Marian Brown speaks at a press conference at the Frank Crowley Courthouse, Wednesday, March 25, 2020.
Current Status and Future Actions
The jail remains in noncompliance until the state conducts a review and reinspection, which can take up to two months. According to Sheriff Brown, one incident where a man was kept in a holding cell without his medication occurred due to a transfer between housing units. The jail’s software system does not automatically alert jailers when a person has been in a holding cell for more than 48 hours. As a result, the jail implemented a log to track transfers and share the list with medical staff to ensure medication is provided.
Past Inspection Findings
The failed inspection in 2018 was prompted by the county’s failure to conduct 30-minute observations for suicidal individuals. The jail failed the annual inspection in 2021 for not providing indigent individuals with hygiene products and failing to allow some individuals on suicide watch to shower. In February 2022, the jail failed a state inspection due to observation logs not matching video footage and about 40 cell doors being in disrepair.
Advocacy and Minimum Standards
Krish Gundu, executive director of the Texas Jail Project, emphasized that even narrow inspections can shed light on broader problems in a jail. Gundu stated that not counting a problem like missed medication is "like helping someone cheat in an exam." The state only enforces minimum standards, which Gundu believes should be a low bar to meet. Gundu emphasized the importance of following minimum standards, given the stressful environment of jails.
Conclusion
The Dallas County jail’s failure to comply with state standards highlights the need for improvement in the treatment of incarcerated individuals. The jail’s history of noncompliance and the recent findings emphasize the importance of addressing these issues to ensure the safety and well-being of those in custody. By implementing changes and following minimum standards, the jail can work towards regaining compliance and providing a better environment for incarcerated individuals.
FAQs
Q: What was the reason for the Dallas County jail’s noncompliance?
A: The jail was found noncompliant for keeping two men in holding cells for approximately two and a half days each, exceeding the 48-hour maximum allowed.
Q: What steps has the jail taken to prevent similar occurrences?
A: The jail has implemented a log to track transfers and share the list with medical staff to ensure medication is provided.
Q: How often do comprehensive inspections of the jail occur?
A: Comprehensive inspections occur every 24 months.
Q: What is the current status of the jail’s compliance?
A: The jail remains in noncompliance until the state conducts a review and reinspection.
Q: What is the role of the Texas Commission on Jail Standards?
A: The commission is responsible for conducting inspections and enforcing minimum standards for jails in Texas.
