Fayette prison population rises
The number of inmates in the Fayette County Prison during January and February was 23 percent higher than the same two months last year, Warden Larry Medlock said Wednesday. January’s average monthly population of 219 is 9.9 percent more than the 188 reported in January 2002, and February’s average population of 239 as of Feb. 24 is 29.2 percent more than the 185 reported last February, Medlock told the prison board at its monthly meeting.
He said Wednesday’s population of 241 includes 218 male and 23 female inmates, noting that the female count is only one less than the permitted maximum.
Medlock said he hopes the number of inmates drops over the summer.
Sheriff Gary Brownfield, board chairman, however, noted that the population is more likely to increase during the summer.
Inmates and prison employee have adjusted surprisingly well to the tobacco-free policy instituted in January, Medlock said.
Most tobacco products and matches were seized during a prison-wide “shake down” that was conducted a week after the policy was implemented, but a few of the items, which are now considered contraband, have turned up since then, he said.
Medlock said the few contraband items that have been discovered since the ban have not created a major problem.
He said matches were also confiscated because they pose fire hazards.
Responding to a question from Brownfield, Medlock said he has not yet noticed a reduction in the prison’s insurance premiums since the ban was imposed.
Guards who smoke have been lighting up on an outside porch, he said.
Board member Mark Roberts, the county controller, said some inmates probably like the policy because it gives them the opportunity to quit smoking.
Medlock said one inmate, who came in with a five-pack-a-day habit, has had no problem adjusting.
In an unrelated matter, the board discussed authorizing the deputy wardens to take disciplinary action against employees when Medlock is not available.
The discussion started after emerging from an executive session.
Roberts said the deputies should have the power to take action under the same rules that Medlock adheres to, even though instances when Medlock would not be available are rare.
County Commissioner Ron Nehls, a board member, suggested referring the matter to the county’s human resources department for a review before the board considers the motion.
Human resources consultant Dave Rodgers said Medlock should train his deputies to act in his stead when he is not available.
Commissioner Sean Cavanagh, a board member, said he had no problem with the concept, but wanted to review the proposal before taking further action.
Commissioner Vince Vicites, who is also on the board, said the warden should be on call 24 hours a day.
No action was taken on the motion.