Jail system needs perception upgrade

People don’t understand jail.

A recent study conducted by Tarleton State University showed that much needs to be done to correct the problems plaguing the Tarrant County jails, but the biggest hurdle is to not only understand the needs of the inmates, but also build a community that can see past the stigma.

“We are currently at a crossroads in American criminal justice. … While some activists are calling for a complete dismantling of the justice system, this is both ill-conceived and not at all feasible. The United States and local jurisdictions need the criminal justice system, and we need the rule of law,” the study says.

The 146-page study, authorized by Tarrant County commissioners, examines the current use of the jail and “any areas of concern identified by the county.”

One of the biggest areas dealt with the type of inmates being booked.

Jail isn’t a place to dump people who can’t pay a fine or need medical services, but it seems to happen more frequently.

“People should not be in county jail simply because they are too poor to write a check to get out,” Commissioner Roy C. Brooks told Star-Telegram reporter Mitch Mitchell. “People should be in jail because they are a danger to public safety, they are a danger to the community.”

But over 25 percent of the inmates booked between January 2013 and July 2015 needed a mental health assessment from MHMR Tarrant County.

And there’s still a lingering, unfounded perception that mental illness is connected to criminal activity. Almost 65 percent of survey respondents agreed about the connection, though studies show the opposite is true.

“Across the criminal justice system, there is a need for enhanced communication, education, and training … it is essential to remove the feelings of competition and conflict and move toward an atmosphere of collaboration and cooperation. This may be the biggest challenge that this criminal justice system faces moving forward,” the study says.

The study details “action plan recommendations,” and it stresses the need for further study and communication.

Tarrant County’s perception of the criminal justice system needs an upgrade, one without stigma or misinformation.

This story was originally published August 19, 2016 at 6:37 PM with the headline "Jail system needs perception upgrade."