Yellowstone County Jail struggles with severe overcrowding, exceeding its 434 inmate capacity and holding over 650 inmates consistently, as reported by Jail Commander Capt. Brandon Smart. The jail’s persistent overcrowding forces officials to make difficult choices about releases, posing risks to public safety, as noted by District Court Judge Colette Davies. Repurposed storage rooms now serve as makeshift cells, leading to cramped conditions where defense attorneys meet clients in hallways and inmates sleep on mats.
The American Correctional Association advises 35 square feet per inmate, a space requirement not met by the jail, according to Chief Civil Attorney Melissa Williams. In response to the critical jail capacity issue, local leaders propose a $175 million bond and $20 million annual levy to expand the facility by 332 beds, with ballots distributed on Oct. 9.
The expansion plan includes constructing a 12-bed specialized medical housing unit, absent in the current jail setup. Construction is expected to span three years, addressing capacity needs until 2049. County officials emphasize the necessity of this investment for public safety, noting past failures to secure funding.
The jail’s population has grown significantly due to increased crime rates and a high number of state probationers and parolees. On average, 85 to 100 inmates are held on behalf of the state, with the state pledging to alleviate this by expanding its prison facilities.
CROWDING
Yellowstone County’s population increased by 50% since the jail’s 1986 construction, coinciding with a rise in crime. The Detention Facility Working Group highlights Billings’ role as a hub for probationers, contributing to overcrowding.
Local leaders warn of a potential lawsuit if the bond and levy fail, referencing past federal court mandates to remedy jail deficiencies. County Attorney Scott Twito expressed concern that failure to expand could harm the community.
EFFORTS TO REDUCE PRESSURE
Efforts to alleviate crowding include streamlining court processes and implementing a new $6 million short-term incarceration wing. This facility, mainly for drunk driving cases and low-level offenses, can hold individuals no longer than 72 hours. A state program also subsidizes monitoring devices for those unable to pay.
The working group has also invested in drug offender rehabilitation programs. Despite these efforts, critics argue more should be done to address factors like insufficient mental health care. Public Health Officer Jon Forte emphasized the jail’s failing conditions and the need for expansion to prevent disease spread and ensure humane care.
Criminal defense attorney Lance Lundvall supports expansion, citing increased drug use and violent crime. However, Lundvall stresses the need for improved medical facilities and resources to reduce staff turnover, alongside expansion. He notes that some inmates pose no community threat, yet receive lengthy jail sentences.
—
Read More Montana News
