West Atlanta News

Georgia State Senator Jason R. Anavitarte is leading an investigation into the Fulton County Jail and District Attorney's office, seeking to address concerns regarding inmate deaths and case backlogs. Working with fellow lawmakers, the aim is to objectively examine these issues starting on November 2nd. 

In response to concerning issues at the Fulton County Jail, Georgia State Senator Jason R. Anavitarte, along with fellow lawmakers and state officials, announced the launch of an investigation into the Fulton County District Attorney's office and jail due to concerns about jail conditions, recent deaths of inmates, and a backlog of cases, according to a Fox5Atlanta article. Senator Randy Robertson will lead a public Senate Public Safety subcommittee starting on November 2 to delve into these issues, emphasizing cases where inmates have been held for extended periods without progress. Anavitarte expressed a commitment to thoroughly examine the situation, condemning any political motivations in case handling and highlighting the impact on crime and safety in Georgia.

A Georgia state Senate committee is launching its own investigation into the troubled conditions of Fulton County Jail, prompted by overcrowding and facility deterioration cited by Sheriff Pat Labat. This initiative follows a prior U.S. Justice Department inquiry into the jail's conditions. The decision comes after the distressing death of inmate Lashawn Thompson, found with insect infestations, prompting heightened calls for reform. Lashawn Thompson, 35, died in Fulton County Jail three months after admission due to an inability to pay $2,500 bail for a misdemeanor. His body was found covered in insects, prompting outrage after images were shared on social media by his family's attorney.

In July 2023, the U.S. Justice Department launched a civil investigation into Fulton County Jail based on credible allegations of inmate neglect, unsafe infrastructure, violence, and excessive force by officers. The investigation was announced to examine living conditions, healthcare, use of force, and potential discrimination against inmates with psychiatric disabilities, emphasizing the need to uphold civil rights, according to their report.

Sheriff Labat advocated for the construction of a new jail, estimated to cost $1.7 billion or more, while Chairman Robb Pitts explored alternative solutions to avoid potential tax increases for residents. Despite having 2,254 beds in cells, the main jail accommodated approximately 2,600 inmates daily, with the surplus sleeping on plastic bunks in common areas and others housed outside the county, Foz5Atlanta reported. Labat has also considered proposals to relocate inmates to private prisons in Georgia and Mississippi.