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Jail Panel Methodically Pursues Truth

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: May 19, 2008

The citizens' panel reviewing Hillsborough County jails is showing the diligence and objectivity necessary to find the truth about an operation whose reputation was tarnished when a jail guard dumped a paralyzed man out of his wheelchair.

In the aftermath of the incident, which received national attention, other inmates came forward claiming mistreatment and threatening lawsuits, though none has so far been filed.

For his part, Sheriff David Gee quickly disciplined the officers and wisely asked for an independent assessment of jail operations.

In its first phase, the panel examined the jail's organization, policies, procedures and training. Now the group, headed and appointed by Dr. James Sewell, former assistant commissioner of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, will conduct a rigorous review of specific abuse complaints. Its final report will be submitted in September.

Preliminary findings are mostly reassuring. Among them: The office hires only one in 10 applicants and checks backgrounds and conducts psychological screening. The practice of direct supervision - where guards stay in living areas with inmates - establishes the expectation that inmates will behave appropriately. Monthly meetings at each jail facility allow inmates to report concerns to staff. Written policies and stated practices emphasize professionalism.

Still, the panel found areas for improvement. For deputies in the booking area, members suggest more training on how to handle drug addicts and those with mental problems. It also suggests deputies avoid taping paper lists to windows, which obstruct the view of what's happening inside.

The investigation's next phase may uncover more serious problems. But the panel's methodical approach should give the public an unobstructed view of what's going on behind the bars at Hillsborough's jails.

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