Hays County residents urge commissioners to reject LaSalle contract for inmate transfers

In a recent Hays County government meeting, community members voiced strong opposition to a proposed contract with LaSalle Corrections for the transfer of inmates to a private facility in Haskell County. The discussions highlighted significant concerns regarding the implications of outsourcing incarceration, particularly for pretrial detainees who are presumed innocent.

One of the most poignant testimonies came from an individual who shared their personal experience of being transferred multiple times between jails, which severely impacted their ability to communicate with family and legal counsel. They described the emotional toll on their family, particularly their mother, who struggled to maintain contact during their incarceration. The speaker emphasized that such transfers not only disrupt the lives of inmates but also pose dangers, as they often face discrimination and violence in unfamiliar facilities.

Eric Martinez, another speaker, criticized the proposed contract for its lack of accountability and transparency. He pointed out that the county would be financially committed to LaSalle Corrections regardless of whether the beds were filled, effectively locking the county into a costly agreement that discourages decarceration. Martinez also raised concerns about the limited oversight of LaSalle's operations, noting that the county would be unable to inspect records without prior notice, which could compromise public safety and accountability.

Cyrus Gray, a reentry adviser and survivor of wrongful incarceration, echoed these sentiments, arguing that the transfers are not only dangerous but also financially burdensome. He highlighted the excessive resources required for transporting inmates, which detracts from local law enforcement duties and complicates access to legal representation. Gray urged the commissioners to consider local solutions to address the underlying issues of courtroom backlogs and staffing shortages rather than relying on costly outsourcing.

The meeting underscored a growing sentiment among community members that the proposed contract with LaSalle Corrections could exacerbate existing problems within the justice system, rather than providing effective solutions. As the county deliberates on this contract, the voices of those directly affected by these policies are calling for a reevaluation of priorities, emphasizing the need for transparency, accountability, and a focus on local solutions to support the community.