Dear Mr. Noland:

I would like to bring to the Boards’ attention safety concerns I have with the main jail above the Courthouse, and also maintenance concerns at the satellite jail.

The main jail is old and no longer functional. Nor does it come close to complying with any jail regulations. If this jail had not been grandfathered by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Jail and Detention Section, then it would have been closed years ago. There are major problems with the door locks, electrical, heating and plumbing problems. It is cold in the winter and extremely hot in the summer.

I am concerned for the safety of inmates housed in the main jail, and employees who must work in the jail. In my opinion, the main jail is a liability and should be replaced immediately. I don’t know how much longer I can continue to operate this jail in its present condition.

The satellite jail is still operable, but in dire need of maintenance. I have turned in numerous work orders for the satellite jail, but, to date, no work has been done . The maintenance on the satellite jail should be done immediately. If maintenance is not done, on a regular basis, then this facility too will soon be beyond repair.

Once again, in my professional opinion, the main jail is a major liability and an accident waiting to happen, and should be replaced immediately.

Sincerely,
T. Alexander,
Sheriff