DAYTON, TN. (Times Free Press)-- The Rhea County Jail could lose its certification after a recent inspection if improvements aren't made before Nov. 1.
Tennessee Corrections Institute Inspector Barry Suttles cited the jail for exceeding its certification capacity of 87 inmates. The jail had 104 inmates at the time of the Sept. 1 inspection. Nearly one-fourth are women, records show.
The jail, built in 1973 and renovated in 2004, averages 94 inmates and during the inspection included 11 who are awaiting transfer to state prison.
The jail could operate without certification, but the county could have liability issues if the overcrowded conditions continue, TCI Assistant Director Peggy Sawyer said. Insurance premiums could increase or lapse if state requirements for inmate capacity aren't met, she said.
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