Over two weeks ago, Baxter County Sheriff John Montgomery advised visitation for inmates of the detention center would cease temporarily as a precautionary health measure due to the coronavirus. It was the first step taken regarding the operation of the Baxter County Detention Center due to the pandemic.
Since then, the inmate census has dropped below the 100 mark for the first time in recent memory.
Montgomery says those that have followed the operation of the Baxter County Sheriff’s Office during his 16-year tenure are aware of his practice of “fair but firm while holding criminals accountable for their actions.” But COVID-19, he says, has required making tough decisions to protect both employees and inmates leading to a reduced jail census for several reasons.
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Montgomery says the reduced jail census can be attributed to other factors.
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With the jail operation now funded from sales tax dollars and anticipating a reduction in this revenue stream with the pandemic, Montgomery says having less inmates is a positive from the standpoint of spending less for meals and medical.
He says steps have been taken to protect both employees and inmates from the coronavirus.
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While there have not been any issues with regard to the coronavirus at the jail, Montgomery says he and his staff are prepared should a potential case develop.
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Montgomery says taking the first step under the pandemic to suspend visitation for inmates included visits from clergy and rehabilitation services, such as Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous. He says its a decision he didn’t like having to make. But at the same time he says his department has the obligation to protect its employees, as well as the inmates.
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