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Sumter County detention director reports education programs; council hears staffing shortfall
Summary
Detention Center Director Patricia Ray told the Public Safety Committee that Morris College will offer online freshman classes to detainees and some detainees are working toward GEDs; she also reported the facility is understaffed by about 80 positions and that county leadership will meet to address staffing.
At the Public Safety Committee report Sept. 27, Detention Center Director Patricia Ray summarized rehabilitation and education steps at the county jail, saying Morris College will work with the facility to allow detainees to enroll in online freshman classes and that some detainees are pursuing GED completion.
Director Ray also told the committee the Detention Center is understaffed by approximately 80 employees. Committee Chair Carlton B. Washington said he, the Sheriff and appropriate staff will meet with the County Administrator to seek solutions to the staffing shortage. The Sheriff provided a briefing to council about incidents under investigation and was reported to continue updating council on those matters (details were not disclosed in open session).
Why it matters: staffing shortages at detention facilities can affect operations, programming and safety. The reported partnerships for education and GED opportunities indicate efforts to provide detainees with educational pathways while the county pursues staffing solutions.
Next steps: Committee chair and Sheriff will meet with the County Administrator to discuss staffing; council will be updated as the county addresses recruitment and retention.
