Athens-Clarke County sheriff says fentanyl a factor in recent jail deaths

Four dead at Athens-Clarke County Jail

Following four deaths of current and recent inmates at the Athens-Clarke County Jail just this year, the sheriff spoke out today about the dangers of fentanyl and what his office needs to keep inmates safe.

CLARKE COUNTY, Ga. - Athens-Clarke County Sheriff John Q. Williams publicly addressed a troubling string of inmate deaths at the county jail during a press conference Monday, revealing new concerns about fentanyl exposure and calling attention to critical staffing and equipment challenges within the facility.

What we know:

Since April, four inmates or former inmates have died, according to the sheriff's office. The most recent incident began last Thursday when an inmate experienced a medical emergency and was placed on life support. The sheriff's office learned on Monday that the inmate had passed away. Sheriff Williams said some of the cases are suspected to involve fentanyl that may have been smuggled in by detainees and spread to others.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) is currently leading the investigations, which Sheriff Williams said is standard protocol in custodial death cases.

What they're saying:

During the news conference, the jail commander also spoke candidly about ongoing staff shortages and outdated surveillance infrastructure. He said the jail’s camera and control systems are antiquated, with limited coverage. Budget requests for system upgrades have been submitted "numerous times," he said, and will be filed again this year.

"When we are fully staffed, we will be able to increase supervision," the commander noted. "That increased oversight could greatly reduce the likelihood of substance use within our facility."

The sheriff’s office says it is committed to improving safety for inmates and staff and will continue reviewing protocols as the investigations progress.

"My heart breaks for each and every one of you that have any connection to these individuals at all," Williams said. "They were members of our community and their lives matter."

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is now reviewing the deaths, a standard procedure in such cases. The agency confirmed that all investigations remain active and ongoing.

Clarke County sheriff addresses drug and staffing problems

Clarke County Sheriff John Q. Williams says staffing problems and drugs are responsible for the recent deaths of at least 3 inmates.

One of the victims, Shabazz Wingfield, was remembered by his grandmother, Crystal Robinson Elder.

"It's just hard and heartbreaking for the young people to come out here and die," she said. "I just hope he's with somebody who loves him and he rests in peace."

The sheriff’s office also identified two other inmates who died while in custody: Torrance Bishop and Boycie Howard. A fourth inmate, Brent Boling, was taken to the hospital after suffering a medical emergency in his cell last Thursday. His mother later confirmed he died and plans to donate his organs.

Sheriff Williams emphasized the difficulty of completely stopping contraband, especially fentanyl, from entering the jail.

"We're never going to be able to 100% eliminate contraband," Williams said. "People can smuggle it in in a belly button and in between your fingers. People are very creative when it comes to these things."

Each inmate is subject to a pat-down, medical evaluation, and body scan upon intake, officials said.

But staffing and equipment limitations remain a challenge, according to Chief Deputy and Jail Commander Frank Woods.

"We face significant staff shortages and are working tirelessly to overcome," Woods said. "Our camera and control system in the building is antiquated and failing."

Mayor Kelly Girtz noted that county commissioners recently approved pay increases for deputies. He added that the sheriff’s office has the authority to shift existing budget funds to address operational needs without additional commission approval.

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RAW: Athens-Clarke County Sheriff's Office talks about inmate deaths

The Athens-Clarke County Sheriff's Office held a press conference on Monday morning to talk about recent deaths of at least 3 inmates. It is believed that they are linked to the usage of fentanyl.

What's next:

The GBI will continue its investigation and the sheriff's office says it is working to prevent future deaths.

Athens-Clarke County Crime and Public Safety News