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Kenton County commissioners were asked this question Thursday: Is it time for a special investigation of the jail?
Bernie Moorman
"I never object to anybody coming in, as long as they're responsible, and they're capable of doing an objective evaluation of the facility. If they're a proven, credible operation, I have no problem doing that. I do think that a lot of (the jail's problems) emanate from the fact that it's overcrowded and understaffed. We need to look at the level of staff and see if we can add more personnel. It's also our responsibility to step up to the plate and find a new location and build a jail."
Nyoka Johnston
"I support (Judge-executive Rodney "Biz') Cain's request for an investigation by the Justice Cabinet. I have felt for the three years that I've been in office that we needed someone with professional management skills in the jail. (The awareness of the jail problems) is not new. The liability issue is always a concern. It behooves me that the jail be run in the most professional way possible, and I don't always think that's been the case. So I do support an outside investigation into the jail.
Steve Arlinghaus
"Part of the problems (Jailer) Don Younger has have been inherited, because of the deficiencies of the facility itself. It's not his fault it's an overcrowded jail, and we're reducing that problem by choosing another site. We need to work with Don Younger in solving the current problems as a team. That's where Don is unwilling to work with us. If we can't get his support in working on (the jail problems) jointly, then I think it definitely warrants deeper interest from the state and the Justice Cabinet to come in and look at any deficiencies that exist, as well as trying to get (Mr. Younger) to work with us and cooperate."
