The Houston Chronicle's recent analysis has shed light on alarming levels of violence perpetrated by jailers against inmates at Hays County Jail, making it the most dangerous facility of its kind in Texas. According to the investigative feature based on weekly reports to the Texas Commission on Jail Standards, reveals a shocking rate of 78 uses of force by officers per 1,000 inmates from 2017 to 2022. Notably, Hays County's rate of officer-on-inmate violence is twice as high as that of Harris County, which has long had a reputation as one of the state's most dangerous jails.
Though the data was self-reported, it raises serious concerns about the treatment of inmates in Hays County. The jail's toxic culture of violence appears deeply ingrained, with some former inmates such as Cyrus Gray, alleging that it stems from leadership within the facility. Gray, who recently had capital murder charges dropped against him, spent over four years in Hays County Jail. He described the environment as "not mentally sane" for both inmates and staff, contributing to a chronic shortage of personnel.
Gray's account includes allegations of officers instigating inmate fights and using excessive force during inmate transfers. The pervasive culture of violence and lack of accountability create an unsafe and inhumane environment within the jail, according to these reports.
We will follow updates on Hays County's conditions alongside other jails and prisons nationwide. #abolitionnow
Link: Houston Chronicle
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