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Citizens of Fulton County:
Since my last report to you in April, I have remained committed to ensuring that the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office evolves into the law enforcement agency deserving of your support and expectations. Every evolution is made up of changes. Those changes, most often result in a better, more superior ‘product’ than previously experienced.
During July and August, well publicized reports focused on the County’s use of retired employees to augment county services provided to the taxpayer. The outcome of the question surrounding the validity of this practice resulted in changes that provided for release of employees that were receiving a Fulton County pension. This sudden action impacted the Sheriff’s Office significantly in that 17 employees, representing over 388 years of law enforcement experience and particularly adept in security issues, being replaced with new hires. Unfortunately, the $727,994.80 cost of this change is being passed on to the taxpayer. Currently, we are in the process of filling vacancies as expeditiously as possible.
One such employee subjected to the rule governing employment of pensioned persons, was Chief Jailer Riley Taylor. Chief Taylor had served the Sheriff’s Office for over 30 years as an employee and as the court appointed monitor prior to accepting the position of Chief Jailer under the current administration. Additional information can be found on the website.
Fortunately, Lt.Col. Charles Felton was available and prepared to assume the responsibility of Chief Jailer and did so on July 21, 2009. Chief Felton brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from Cook County, Illinois and the Miami Dade County Jail, where he served as Warden. The transition was flawless as Jail services were un-interrupted. In addition, Jimmy Carter, a seasoned security professional – most recently with Coca-Cola, joined the staff as Lt. Col. responsible for Court Services/Security & Reserves Unit.
These changes have resulted in the following organizational structure with designated commanders:
Fulton County Jail – Chief Jailer Charles Felton
Court Services & Reserves – Lt. Col. Jimmy Carter
Law Enforcement Division – Lt. Col. Jeff Holmes
Administration – Chief Natalie Allison
Amid the many changes, the Sheriff’s Office has continued to move forward in its mission. Significant areas of progress are highlighted as follows:
The Administration Division developed a promotional process, based upon performance and merit that has resulted in the filling of 54 Captain, Lt. and Sergeants positions. The process integrated seasoned professionals from surrounding law enforcement agencies that participated as interview panelist. This process provided for consideration of the candidate solely on their individual presentation on the date of the interview.
Other strides made by the Administration Division include the implementation of a contract review committee responsible for reviewing and approving each contract within the Sheriff’s Office. This process immediately determined inconsistencies in billing of the Trinity Food Services contract – the provider of food service for the Fulton County Jail. These inconsistencies were tantamount to overbilling in the amount of $866,000.00. Negotiations between Trinity Food Services and the Sheriff’s Office resulted in a settlement payment to Trinity Food Services in the amount of $566,000.00 – a $300,000.00 savings to the taxpayer. Ongoing monitoring of this contract has stabilized the weekly food service cost at $66,000 from $80,000. See website for additional details.
With the arrival of a Technical Services Director, Mr. Terry Fisher the process of upgrading all existing technology equipment used by the Sheriff’s Office is underway. This upgrade includes the ongoing development of the Fulton County Sheriff’s website, promising to be world class. (www.fultonsheriff.org)
Courts
Focus continues on courthouse security and the approval of the Courthouse Security Plan which is currently under first draft review. The new commander for Courts, Lt. Col. Jimmy Carter, has developed a total review of the physical security of the courthouse and included his finding in the first draft. A Captain Deputy Sheriff has been designated to provide overall physical security for the courthouse complexes. We are continually reviewing and updating the list of items ineligible for courthouse entry.
The Fulton County Sheriff’s Reserve continues to increase its numbers as we welcome new applicants interested in volunteering service to this agency. Presently, 84 members comprise the Reserve as we continue to actively seek additional members. To date, the Reserves have participated in ‘shakedowns’ at the Fulton County Jail for the purpose of eliminating contraband. In addition, jail ‘sweeps’ are conducted with joint law enforcement agencies within Fulton County. Soon, the public will have a formalized request process for utilization of services of the Sheriff’s Reserves.
Law Enforcement Division
The execution of warrants and the service of writs and processes continue to be the primary daily focus of the staff of the Law Enforcement Division. Steadily, the backlog is being reduced as new orders and warrants are processed.
Monthly meetings with police chiefs of other agencies within Fulton County and Atlanta, continues to prove productive. These agencies, along with assigned fugitive task forces, have combined to effect over 500 arrests each month. Particular initiatives include burglaries and other violent crime activities.
Community Outreach
We have experienced tremendous response from clergy from throughout the community as we established our Chaplaincy Program. Over 35 members from varying denominations within the faith community, encompass this outreach initiative. At focus are youth and previous offenders. In addition, Community Outreach Unit staff, comprised of Sheriff’s Office employees continues programs and activities for youth, senior citizens and professional business organizations. Most recently, the Sheriff’s Office was represented in local National Night Out activities throughout the community.
Jail
Renovations of the plumbing, electrical, sanitation (including removal of mold), nears completion at the Rice Street facility. A target date of October, 2009 has been set and all indicators suggest adherence to this timeline.
Collaboration with Atlanta Vocational Technical College has resulted in the development of inmate programs to include GED, vocational training, cosmetology / barber, yoga and culinary arts certification.
The in-house Jail Chaplaincy Program continues to meet the spiritual needs of the Fulton County Jail inmate through the services of the 200 plus clergy who provide their services on a continuous basis to the inmate and their families.
The latest Federal Court Monitor’s Report has indicated tremendous progress in compliance with the Federal Consent Decree. We continue to serve you professionally, effectively, efficiently and promptly in all aspects of our responsibilities within operating and managing your tax dollars.
Any comments or information you desire to provide to the Sheriff’s Office can be forwarded through our website.
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