Orange County accepts jail oversight commission’s 31 recommendations to reduce jail stays, expand treatment and boost staffing

The Orange County Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday unanimously accepted 31 recommendations from the mayor’s Orange County Jail Oversight Commission aimed at shortening jail stays, improving medical and behavioral health care, and reducing recidivism.

The commission, reconvened by Mayor Jerry O'Demings earlier this year and co‑chaired by Chief Judge Lisa Munyon and retired Chief Judge Belvin Perry, held 21 meetings over five months and delivered its final report to the board. Deputy County Administrator and Director of Public Safety Danny Banks told commissioners the group "had 31 recommendations" developed by three subcommittees that examined criminal case processing, medical/behavioral health, and recruitment and retention.

Commission leaders stressed the report is intended to preserve public safety while reducing the county’s jail population through diversion, improved treatment and operational changes. "The care, concern, and empathy showed by the correction staff and the health service staff is a jewel of this community," Mike Griffin, senior vice president of…