### Fulton County Jail Under Fire for Inhumane Conditions and Excessive Violence

Fulton County's jail system in Georgia is under intense scrutiny following a detailed report released by the U.S. Justice Department, which accused the facility of violating the constitutional rights of its detainees. The federal investigation, launched in July 2023, uncovered severe issues such as rampant violence, excessive use of force, and deplorable living conditions.

The Justice Department’s investigation highlighted grave concerns, citing the death of 35-year-old Lashawn Thompson in September 2022 as a case of severe neglect. Thompson was found dead in a bedbug-infested cell within the jail's psychiatric wing, with an independent autopsy revealing he died from neglect. His body was covered in insects, and his cell was unsanitary and filled with garbage.

Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Kristen Clarke described the situation as "longstanding, unconstitutional, unlawful and dangerous," noting that the appalling conditions have jeopardized the lives of detainees. Clarke emphasized that jail conditions have essentially resulted in a death sentence for many, with dozens murdered or dying due to the atrocious environment.

The investigation revealed alarming statistics for 2023, reporting 1,054 assaults and 314 stabbings within the jail. Federal officials noted that officers have sometimes facilitated or even initiated the violence, with many incidents going unreported or improperly documented.

Fulton County Sheriff Pat Labat, who has been vocal about issues like overcrowding, aging infrastructure, and staffing shortages since taking office in 2021, has pushed for the construction of a new jail. Despite resistance, the County Board of Commissioners has approved up to $300 million to improve the current facility. While Sheriff Labat and Chairman Robb Pitts acknowledged ongoing efforts to address these challenges, the Justice Department criticized their actions as insufficient.

The report also detailed the inadequate training and excessive force used by jail officers, frequent misuse of Tasers, and the insufficient disciplining of staff involved in excessive force incidents. Additionally, the jail's hazardous and unsanitary conditions—such as broken toilets, cockroach and rodent infestations, and cells with exposed wiring—were of particular concern.

Medical and mental health care at the jail were found to be grossly inadequate, contributing to the risk of injury, serious illness, and decline in mental health among detainees. Vulnerable populations, including LGBTQ individuals, minors, and those with serious mental illnesses, were identified as particularly at risk.

The report concluded with 11 pages of recommended remedial measures and a stern warning of potential legal action if the issues are not adequately addressed. Clarke expressed hope that Fulton County will implement necessary reforms and potentially set a new standard for jail facilities nationwide.