Incoming Marshall County sheriff speaks out on jail concerns
. - We're hearing from the man who will become Marshall County Sheriff in less than six months.
Phil Sims says he has concerns, and a plan, to deal with problems in the jail.
"I am concerned. I'm alarmed by it. I'm concerned by it. It's a safety issue," said Sims.
Allegations of cellphones making their way into the Marshall County Jail along with drugs and fights continue to emerge.
It culminated Wednesday when officers from several jurisdictions were called to the jail to assist with a riot.
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What Sims finds most alarming is the frequency of such incidents.
"Every jail has its issues but some issues that we're seeing here is more than what you would reasonably see," said Sims.
Cellphone access by inmates is especially concerning for Sims.
"Especially is you have cases where there are victims from different type cases. It could be detrimental to that. The last thing you want is a victim being identified or called by the alleged suspect," said Sims.
But Sims can only sit on the sidelines and watch until he's able to take office.
"I have a plan and when I take office I will execute that plan and when we do we'll solve the problem," said Sims.
Sims will take office Jan. 21.
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