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Extracted from Consolidated Report

This investigation was originally published as part of a larger consolidated report containing multiple investigations. View the consolidated PDF for the complete document.

Calaveras County Grand Jury • 2006-2007

Calaveras County Jail

4 pages
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Findings 5 findings

F1 Page 43
The jail itself continues to be inadequate and obsolete due to the increase in crime. The jail was constructed in the early 1960’s to house an inmate population of 47. The crime rate of Calaveras County continues to grow at a rapid pace with no expansion feasible within the existing jail structure. A court order mandates the capacity of the jail not to exceed 65 inmates. As a result, some inmates are periodically released on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration public safety prior to the completion of their respective jail terms. It is further noted that this adult jail facility in San Andreas is the only jail within the county serving City of Angels Police Department, the Sheriff’s Department as well as the local arrests initiated by the California Highway Patrol, Department of Fish and Game, and other State and Federal agencies. 38
F2 Page 44
Security and safety issues exist due to the physical layout of the jail. Blind spots hamper officers from maintaining visible observations of inmate and staff movement in certain locations within the jail. Other locations would not provide an ingress or egress route in an emergency situation should a fire erupt or during an inmate related disturbance. Additional manpower required to monitor inmates arrested for substance abuse offenses restricts staff from monitoring the remainder of the inmates.
F3 Page 44
Regarding the overall daily operation of the jail, the Grand Jury found the condition of confinement under Federal, State and local laws is being met. The kitchen was observed to be clean and healthy dietary nutrition is being provided to the inmate population with a cost per meal of approximately $1.30. Medical services are being provided with medical personnel on site with quick response or transfers to a medical facility in an emergency situation. Inmate recreation is provided via the enclosed recreation yard, writing materials, television, and library books. Providing various activities has resulted in the utilization of additional deputy support from the field to meet compliance. This does impact police response in the community in order to maintain inmate control within the jail. The outer perimeter of the jail constitutes a security and safety issue. There is no secure area outside the jail when moving inmates to and from vehicles and the courthouse.
F4 Page 44
Jail staff expressed concern to the Grand Jury about airborne exposure to asbestos because inmates poke holes in the ceiling. Asbestos left undisturbed is 39 not considered a problem. However, when tampered with, asbestos becomes airborne and a potential health risk when tiny fibers are inhaled. A state certified asbestos consultant in March 7, 2005 report found “the jail contains a sprayed acoustical ceiling which is considered Friable-Hazardous Material that will require enclosure or abatement as soon as possible to prevent and alleviate exposure to asbestos airborne fibers to inmates tampering with it.” The Sheriff reports the ceiling was sealed and continues to be maintained. The county’s annual jail inspection report did not identify any asbestos related health risks.
F5 Page 45
Although staff is vigilant in the performance of their duties, two locations have a high volume of paper products, which may constitute a fire hazard: 1. The storage area in the kitchen, next to an exit door, has an accumulation of empty cardboard boxes. 2. Control Center has a large quantity of paper products stored in this secured area. In the event of a fire in this location, it could lessen deputies’ ability to control other areas within the jail. Only two air packs were on hand. Insufficient staffing continues to be a matter of concern, especially during the late evening and early morning shift with only two deputies on duty: 1. One in communications control 2. One to respond in case of an emergency situation, i.e. fire evacuation The evacuation maps on the control room window are very small. Although staff may be familiar with exit procedures during an emergency situation (i.e. fire) visitors might have difficulty reading the small exit map. High employee turnover has been attributed to conditions of the jail facility. 40

Recommendations 2