ADAMS COUNTY, Wash. — The decaying state of jails in Adams County highlights significant issues across the Inland Empire, according to a report by FOX 13 News. Facilities are outdated, understaffed and underfunded, posing challenges for local law enforcement.
Sheriff Richie Skiles of Latah County shared the impact of closing their jail due to structural problems, including sewer and electrical issues. “It was a very difficult decision because I knew how it would affect Moscow Police Department and us,” Skiles said.
The Latah County Jail, located in a concrete basement, faces numerous challenges. Skiles highlighted the difficulties of renovating the facility, stating, “How do you dig up concrete floors in a basement of a jail?”
Sheriff Skiles is currently housing inmates in Nez Perce County, as the cost of building a new jail remains uncertain. “The jail is going to be expensive,” Skiles said. “We haven’t really got a quote yet, but we keep hearing numbers like $30 million.”
In Kootenai County, issues are not structural but related to overcrowding and staffing. Sheriff Bob Norris reported improvements in staffing levels and the addition of 119 beds by April 1. “We’ve stabilized staffing,” Norris said.
The Kootenai County Jail, which has failed inspections for three consecutive years, currently houses 476 inmates, exceeding its capacity of 361. Construction is underway to expand capacity with two new pods.
Adams County faced similar challenges, relying on federal and state grants for a jail remodel. Sheriff Dale Wagner described a severe incident leading to the closure of their jail. “Deputy sustained facial injuries, including an eye socket burst,” Wagner said.
Adams County Commissioner Dan Blankenship shared their funding strategy. “We got the $2.6 million federal grant. We approached the State of Washington for the remaining $700,000 so that’s done,” Blankenship said.
As Adams County prepares to reopen its facility, the changes aim to enhance safety and conditions. “It’s more than exciting. It needs to happen,” Wagner said.
