Rather than inspecting every county jail each year, the Texas Commission on Jail Standards is moving to a 'risk-based' approach, with some getting inspections up to three times annually.
A Bexar County correctional officer unlocks a pass-through window to a cell at the Bexar County Jail on July 15.The Texas Commission on Jail Standards, tasked with setting and enforcing minimum standards of construction, maintenance and operation to keep county jails safe is changing its inspection process to check in on some jails more — and others less.
San Antonio Report: What role does the Commission on Jail Standards play in the criminal justice system?We operate in a very unique environment and that is that we are one governmental entity regulating another governmental entity . People often forget about the staff that has to work in this environment. And they are faced with some unbelievable challenges. They take up a duty that others are not willing to do. And if you’re creating a dangerous environment for inmates, then you’re creating a dangerous environment for your employees, your fellow taxpayers and your public servants.The agency’s budget has remained stagnant but the workload has definitely increased.
Depending upon their compliance history and the level of risk that we have determined that they actually possess the county could be subjected to two comprehensive inspections per year. Possibly three, it just depends. I think Bexar County’s jail would be very high on the inspection priority assessment, and it’s not because of their size. Compliance history, deaths in custody, escapes and complaints are all generally better indicators of risk.
The inmates will normally tell you if all the intercoms are working, all the toilets are working, showers too hot or too cold, medical issues, whatever. They’re not shy about voicing their concerns or issues.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Sugary Drinks, Rather Than Artificially Sweetened Beverages or Juices, Show Link to IBDA large study using UK Biobank data adds evidence that high sugar consumption increases the risk of inflammatory bowel disease. One expert urges the replication of such a study in the US population.
Read more »
Texas' Trump-themed burger joint draws in touristsRoland Beainy, a second-generation Lebanese American, opened Trump Burger in Bellville, Texas, in 2020 with a menu that pays homage to the former president.
Read more »
Texas LB Jaylan Ford ready to take on a bigger roleThe former Frisco Lone Star standout has the inside track to start at middle linebacker for the Longhorns.
Read more »
Volunteers celebrate Christmas during Texas heat waveInstead of typical gingerbread houses made with edible ingredients, volunteers use clay to make a ceramic version of this Christmas classic to gift to children at Dell Children's Hospital.
Read more »
What to know about vouchers and the school choice movement in TexasTexas Sen. Ted Cruz said he is doing his best to promote “school choice” in his home state, which he described as way behind on the issue compared with...
Read more »
Disney's partnership with Texas Children's brings magical experience to patientsTexas Children's Hospital is receiving a fairy tale magical makeover through its partnership with Disney!
Read more »