Benton County Jail Grappling with Overcrowding Issues
County leaders in Benton County, Arkansas are scrambling to find solutions to combat overcrowding at both the adult and juvenile detention centers. At the center of the crisis is the adult jail, which currently holds 699 inmates but is designed to hold 669. This situation has prompted officials to consider a variety of measures to address the issue, including expanding medical and mental health resources, creating a “misdemeanor pod,” and planning a long-term jail expansion.
Judge Barry Moehring emphasizes that the problem is not related to an increase in crime but rather the rapid growth of the local population. This perspective highlights the need for proactive measures to ensure the jail can accommodate the growing community safely and effectively. Notably, Moehring has proposed a sales tax increase of an eighth of a cent to raise million annually to support these initiatives. The decision, however, ultimately rests with the voters.
Regarding the juvenile detention center, it is currently operating at 25% capacity. Plans are in motion to expand this facility with an estimated cost of .5 million, which would add 12 beds and improve segregation and segregation standards. This move is crucial to maintaining the necessary separation of different juvenile offender groups.
Despite the efforts underway, funding remains a significant hurdle. The county has set aside million for a misdemeanor pod, but an additional million is required to move forward. Furthermore, the county judge will need approval from the quorum court and various other jurisdictions to adjust sales taxes, making the road ahead a complex and multifaceted one.
