Alabama sheriff forces evacuation of jail due to undisclosed ‘health and safety concerns’

An Alabama sheriff has evacuated his county’s jail due to unspecified “health and safety issues.” Autauga County Sheriff Mark Harrell made this decision and began transporting inmates from the Autauga County Metro Jail to other facilities with the help of deputies.

Currently, there are 164 people listed on the inmate roster on the sheriff’s office website. Sheriff Harrell stated that they have worked out logistics with several agencies to house the inmates in a safe environment. He did not specify which agencies were involved or for how long they would house the inmates.

Sheriff Harrell emphasized his moral obligation to ensure the safety, health, and security of everyone entering the Autauga County Metro Jail. He mentioned that the County Commission needs to address the health and safety issues before any new inmates are placed in the jail.

Autauga County Administrator Scott Kramer acknowledged the issues at the jail but did not provide specific details. He mentioned that the commission is working closely with Sheriff Harrell and his staff to address their concerns and urged them to do the same.

Kramer stated that the commission had workers at the facility this week to address the concerns and that experts have conducted inspections. They are committed to making improvements to ensure the well-being of anyone, including inmates, staff, law enforcement officers, or members of the public who enter the jail within the scope of the law and the available resources.