The U.S. Department of Justice has completed an investigation into the conditions at the Fulton County Jail in Georgia, revealing significant violations of constitutional and federal laws. Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke, alongside Ryan Buchanan, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia, shared findings that highlight long-standing issues within the facility.
"The Justice Department has completed a comprehensive investigation into conditions at the Fulton County Jail in Fulton County, Georgia," said Clarke. The report uncovers "inhumane, violent and hazardous conditions" which have led to numerous deaths within the jail.
The investigation found that inadequate protection against violence is a major concern. Clarke stated, "The Fulton County Jail does not adequately protect incarcerated people from violence such as stabbing, sexual abuse or even murder." She cited statistics from 2023 indicating 314 stabbings and over a thousand assaults, surpassing rates in other cities.
Additional findings include unsafe living conditions with unsanitary environments and insufficient food supply leading to malnutrition. There are also deficiencies in medical and mental health care provision. "Medical emergencies do not receive appropriate medical responses," noted Clarke.
Clarke also addressed concerns regarding solitary confinement practices and excessive use of force by staff members. "The jail uses solitary confinement...in discriminatory and unconstitutional ways," she remarked.
Specific cases were highlighted to underscore these issues, including LaShawn Thompson's death due to neglect while confined in the mental health unit. This reflects broader racial justice concerns as 91% of those affected are Black individuals compared to 45% of Fulton County’s population.
Despite some preliminary improvements by officials, Clarke emphasized that more needs to be done: "We hope our findings report sounds an alarm that will prompt the Fulton County Board of Commissioners and the Sheriff’s Office to swiftly implement the comprehensive reforms necessary."
U.S. Attorney Buchanan was expected to provide further comments following Clarke's address.