El Paso Sheriff fears jail overcrowding could lead to safety concerns

The El Paso County jail has reached a critical point in managing its inmate population, according to officials.

Monday, the sheriff’s office announced the jail’s population jumped up to 1,839; the last record was in August 2017 with 1,791 inmates. The increase has El Paso County Sheriff Bill Elder fearing there may not be enough space or personnel.

“The only jail in El Paso County is again bursting at the seams,” Elder said.

Officials are also concerned the jail’s steady increase in population over the last five years could impact the safety of both staff members and inmates, specifically fearing it could increase the likelihood of fights and assaults.

Moving forward, Elder says his number one priority is to focus on jail staffing until the facility can find a more permanent solution. He says building a new jail or adding to the existing one is not an option.