WAFF.com: North Alabama News, Radar, Weather, Sports and Jobs-Commissioner wants to release non-violent inmates to save money
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By Elizabeth Gentle - bio | email
HUNTSVILLE, AL (WAFF) - Budget constraints have Madison County Commissioners asking the Sheriff to tighten up on overtime, even if that means turning non-violent inmates free.
23-percent of the county's operating budget goes to the Sheriff's Department.
Sheriff Blake Dorning said the department is 40 officers short in addition to needing 40 more to operate the new jail when it opens.
One commissioner said he has an idea that could save money and manpower.
Madison County Commissioners want Sheriff Blake Dorning to cut out overtime.
"What's the point in having a budget if we don't abide by it," asked Madison County Commissioner Faye Dyer.
Dorning, with budget in hand, said he's under a federal mandate.
To cut pay, the county would have to release prisoners.
"We would have to release over 300 prisoners right now," said Sheriff Dorning.
The current jail's population is around 1,040 inmates.
Commissioner Bob Harrison said he knows a way to cut the number and save money.
"Do I want to let prisoners out? What have I said for the last 4 years? 'Yes,' said Madison County Commissioner Bob Harrison.
Harrison said the majority are in on drug related charges.
He suggests these non-violent offenders should be sent home with electronic monitoring devices rather than taking up valuable bed space.
"Let's get some productivity out of these people put them to work," said Harrison.
Dorning agreed clearing out non-violent inmates would save money but he said it's not that easy.
A plan would have to be approved.
Until then, Dorning must follow the judge's order to make sure prisoners are fed three meals a day and that he has enough staff to keep watch 24-7.
"We'd love to have the ability to go out and work inmates in the community, make them do labor tasks," said Dorning. "You have to send somebody to watch the individual."
Harrison wants to have a work session with the Sheriff, DA's and legislative delegation to see what can be done to reduce inmate numbers in the jail.
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