Sheriff wants to charge jail inmates $10 a day

Published 10/26/09

FREDERICK, Md. (AP) — Sitting in jail could get a lot more expensive if the Frederick County sheriff has his way.

Sheriff Chuck Jenkins wants to charge inmates $10 for every day they're housed at the Frederick County Adult Detention Center.

Jenkins asks, "Why should the public support the bad guys?"

Jenkins also wants to hike other fees for inmates — charging $35 for a dental visit and $25 to inmates who want to pursue a general equivalency diploma. He says his plan could raise $1 million a year.

The Frederick County Commissioners are expected to vote on Jenkins' proposals this week. If approved, the measures would be sent to state lawmakers for their consideration. State law governs the fees that are charged to inmates.

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work release - 2009-10-27 11:04:13

they charge you for work release.... nothing wrong with that.....let's not get too cute here....there's a reason why people go to jail.....and it's not to balance a budget...whack job !!!!

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stanley d. - mayo, md - Karma: Neutral

Why Not - 2009-10-27 08:18:44

If it makes prison less attractive, then why not try it. What we are currently doing is not working. Why shouldn't they have to share in the cost of their upkeep?????

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Rick M. - Laurel, Md - Karma: Excellent

Anne Arundel - 2009-10-26 17:53:45

Anne Arundel charges 'Some' inmates $20.00 per day.
Apparently hardened criminals pay nothing but DUI/DWI offenders and probably others pay $20.00 per day.

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P. O'Flanagan - West River, MD - Karma: Neutral

really tough sell - 2009-10-26 15:37:00

I agree- this would be tough to pass. Judges make sentencing decisions on a variety of issues including how much a certain punishment effects the one who had to serve it (ie, you don't sentence a single mother to a year in prison for a misdemeanor).

However, I'd hate to have someone not sentenced to a year in jail just because the $3,500 is too much of a burden.

Then what happens if they don't pay? We don't release them? That starts treading on cruel and unusual, you can't hold a man in jail because he can't pay a $10 bill, or whatever it may be.

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J. Smythen - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Neutral

tough sell - 2009-10-26 12:20:14

I very much appreciate the sheriff's position and I support the general concept. Unfortunately I think its unrealistic to give someone a 12 month sentence and then tack on a $3500 bill. I also doubt it would pass constitutional muster if it does get enacted.

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D R. - severna park, MD - Karma: Excellent