Pubdate: Sat, 14 Feb 2004
Source: Florida Today (Melbourne, FL)
Copyright: 2004 Florida Today
Contact:  http://www.flatoday.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/532
Note: Does not accept out of town LTEs on drug policy
Author: Bill Gaines

UNNECESSARY DETENTIONS LEAD TO INJUSTICES

We recently have seen another inmate take his own life at the Brevard 
County Detention Center, and once again serious questions need answers for 
the well-being of all involved -- inmates, corrections officers and the 
families of both.

We need to confront the issue of nonviolent inmates remaining in jail prior 
to trial.

How many of the jail's inmates are there on misdemeanor crimes and minor 
drug charges? How much per diem money does the county receive from the 
federal government for each inmate in custody? Is corrections about big money?

Three suicides during a six-week period presents a huge red flag indicating 
things are amiss within the overcrowded facility.

Let's ask Brevard's judges why they continue to deny or set ridiculously 
high bonds for many accused of nonviolent offenses. The jail has become the 
poster child for a system needing reform.

Bill Gaines, Cape Canaveral
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom