The U.S. Department of Justice has announced a proposed consent decree with Fulton County, Georgia, and the Fulton County Sheriff's Office to address conditions at the Fulton County Jail. The agreement aims to resolve findings that the jail's conditions violate the 8th and 14th Amendments to the U.S. Constitution, as well as the Americans with Disabilities Act and Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
This court-enforceable agreement is designed to correct a pattern of rights violations within the facility. It includes measures such as improving safety protocols, enhancing staffing and supervision, ensuring proper maintenance of facilities, regulating use of force by staff, and providing adequate medical care. The decree also calls for comprehensive cleaning plans and pest management systems to maintain sanitary conditions.
An independent monitor will oversee compliance with these measures and issue public reports biannually. Public input regarding jail conditions will be encouraged throughout this process.
Attorney General Merrick B. Garland remarked on the importance of this agreement: “This proposed consent decree is a critical step toward correcting the dangerous and dehumanizing conditions that have persisted in the Fulton County Jail for far too long.”
Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke highlighted past issues at the facility: “Detention in the Fulton County Jail amounted to a death sentence for dozens of people who have been murdered or who died as a result of inhumane conditions inside the facility."
U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan emphasized cooperation in addressing these issues: “The proposed consent decree serves as a cooperative measure to address the grievous pattern of inhumane — and frequently violent — treatment of people in custody.”
The Justice Department initiated its investigation into Fulton County Jail in July 2023 under several federal statutes including CRIPA and ADA. This investigation identified systemic issues requiring legal intervention.
The Civil Rights Division remains committed to addressing unconstitutional practices across correctional facilities nationwide, having launched similar investigations in states like Tennessee, California, South Carolina, Kentucky, Mississippi, Texas, Georgia, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Alabama, and Louisiana.
For more information about ongoing efforts by the Civil Rights Division or to report violations related to this case or others visit their website or contact them directly via provided channels.