SAN ANTONIO — A new study revealed a host of inefficiencies at Bexar County's Justice Intake and Assessment Annex which processes all individuals arrested in Be
SAN ANTONIO — A new study revealed a host of inefficiencies at Bexar County's Justice Intake and Assessment Annex which processes all individuals arrested in Bexar County. Researchers from UT Health Houston's School of Public Health presented their findings Tuesday, highlighting issues such as outdated technology, prolonged processing delays, and poor communication across government departments.
Many of the issues identified are outside the control of Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar who is tasked with overseeing the jail. Judge Peter Sakai acknowledged the concerns, stating, "I understand people will say why should we be concerned, but you've hit it with the fact that there are liabilities that can be imposed on the county and the city." The study, conducted between April and June of last year, noted that the number of arrestees has nearly tripled over the past four years, averaging 135 inmates daily. It takes an average of 16 or more hours before their release. . "Certainly there are people that need to be locked up, violent offenders, repeat offenders, but there are also low-level offenders, traffic offenders perhaps, that need to be processed and get out of our system as quickly as possible," Sakai said. Judge Sakai pointed out that many processes at the facility, such as paper-based bond processing, have remained unchanged since his time working as a rookie prosecutor some 40 years ago. He emphasized the need for proactive change, a sentiment echoed by county commissioners. "It's a waste of taxpayer dollars, it's a waste of personnel, it's a waste of time," said Precinct 1 Commissioner Rebeca-Clay Flores. In response, researchers have developed a 90-day action plan to streamline booking. The plan includes updating technology, fast-tracking certain inmates for release or diversion, and improving infrastructure at the facility. "We're going to get this thing resolved, but it will be resolved by everyone coming to the table, and having a thorough discussion," Sakai said.
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