Original Story By: Dwayne Page, Partner Station WJLE
You may recall in 2016 the local jail in Rutherford County was de-certified by the TN Corrections Institute Board of Control. After Rutherford County corrected manpower issues and more, the jail was re-certified. Now, a nearby county is faced with similar issues.
The DeKalb County Commission has taken the first step towards keeping the DeKalb County Jail and Annex from being de-certified by the Tennessee Corrections Institute.
In a meeting with the DeKalb County Mayor and County Commission Thursday night, Sheriff Patrick Ray said TCI officials have given assurances that the jail and annex will continue to maintain certification, provided the county seeks a remedy through a "plan of action" in cooperation with TCI and CTAS.
However, DeKalb County Mayor Tim Stribling explained Monday night that entering into a partnership with TCI and CTAS to come up with plan of action does not commit the county to building a new jail.
A "plan of action" allows a facility to maintain a certified status after failing to meet all minimum standards while demonstrating to the TCI Board of Control that the facility is making measurable progress over a period of time (months or years) to rectify deficiencies found during inspection.
The DeKalb County Sheriff must appear before the TCI Board of Control in Nashville on December 4th to announce the county commission's decision on seeking a "plan of action". Although TCI wants to hear from the county, the DeKalb County Mayor said there is no cause for concern.
CODE REQUIRING STANDARDS:
Tennessee Corrections Institute (TCI) under the authority of T.C.A. 41-4-140, is required to establish minimum standards for adult local jails, lock-ups, workhouses and detention facilities in the state. The agency's Board of Control establishes the standards to inspect and certify local correctional facilities. Inspections and re-inspections are conducted within the mandated timeframe to ensure compliance of all standards for the purpose of certification.
