Jago Times "English Edition" Best Online Newspaper
Amid ongoing concerns about inmate fatalities at the Tarrant County jail, Sheriff Bill Waybourn has responded to the community, urging patience as investigations continue.
Since 2017, a total of 63 jail inmates have passed away, with the most recent death occurring last Sunday. New data obtained by NBC 5 sheds light on the comparison between Tarrant County jail deaths and those in other Texas counties.
In the wake of the recent death of 31-year-old Anthony Johnson, who died after a confrontation with detention officers, Sheriff Waybourn has emphasized the need for thorough investigations to uncover the truth. The Texas Rangers are currently probing the incident.
Johnson’s family has voiced concerns, stating he suffered from schizophrenia, raising questions about the handling of inmates with mental illness within the jail.
Sheriff Waybourn acknowledged the necessity of additional resources for mental health patients, emphasizing the importance of alternative facilities over detention centers.
County Commissioner Alisa Simmons has called for an independent investigation by the US Department of Justice, highlighting the urgency to address the situation at the Tarrant County jail.
Despite comparisons with other counties, which show a lower inmate death count, Simmons stressed the need for significant improvements to prevent further fatalities.
As inquiries into Johnson’s death continue, NBC 5 sought updates from the Texas Rangers but is awaiting a response.
At the conclusion of his press conference, Sheriff Waybourn declined to address inquiries regarding calls for a DOJ investigation into the Tarrant County jail.