In a recent Milwaukee County Committee on Finance meeting, officials grappled with pressing safety concerns at the county jail, particularly the ongoing issue of contraband smuggling. The discussion centered around the urgent need for a new body scanner and additional canine units to enhance security measures within the facility.

The meeting revealed that attempts to secure funding for the body scanner through capital projects and opioid settlement funds had been unsuccessful for two consecutive years. Despite these setbacks, officials expressed a commitment to finding alternative funding avenues to ensure taxpayer money is used wisely while addressing the critical safety needs of the jail.

Supervisor Capriollo highlighted the alarming statistics surrounding contraband incidents, noting that since 2020, there have been 175 reported cases, with Narcan administered 50 times to counteract opioid overdoses—five of which occurred this year, resulting in two fatalities. This stark reality underscored the urgency of implementing new safety measures.

Capriollo advocated for the combination of a new body scanner and a third canine unit, emphasizing that while canines may produce false positives, they serve as a valuable tool in conjunction with advanced scanning technology. The psychological deterrent effect of canines was also noted, reinforcing their role in crime prevention.

The committee's discussions reflected a broader commitment to improving jail safety and responding to community concerns. With a potential funding source identified through reallocating the Racine Veil overflow contract budget, officials are hopeful that these enhancements can be realized without tapping into contingency funds.

As the meeting concluded, the focus remained on ensuring the safety of those in custody and demonstrating to the community that their voices are being heard. The path forward appears to be one of collaboration and innovation, as Milwaukee County seeks to address these critical issues head-on.