NCJ Number
172143
Journal
American Jails Volume: 11 Issue: 3 Dated: (July-August 1997) Pages: 65-67
Date Published
1997
Length
3 pages
Annotation
Arkansas has a unique and effective jail inspection system that uses local citizens to inspect jails.
Abstract
The statewide board system established in 1973 was changed in 1983 to a system of Criminal Detention Facilities Review Committees within the State's 26 judicial districts. Each committee has five members who are residents, who hold no public office, and who are appointed by the district's chief circuit judge. Their terms usually last 4 years. Each committee has six areas of authority and responsibility. It visits and inspects all criminal detention facilities in the judicial district at least annually to determine the conditions of confinement, the treatment of inmates, and whether the facilities comply with the minimum standards set forth in the law. Standards were subsequently revised to provide committee members the legal protections already established for State boards and commissions. They also receive technical assistance and training from a State coordinator. This volunteer system has both advantages and disadvantages. Vacancies are a major problem. However, the positive factors of local authority plus assistance from the paid State coordinator appear far greater than the negatives. Many older jails have been renovated and brought into compliance through the efforts of the jail committees and local community leaders.