Stokes is ready to close the Hinds County Detention Center | News

JACKSON, MS (WLBT)- A vote to close the Hinds County Detention Center in Raymond could come as early as Monday. Supervisor Kenneth Stokes says he'll make a motion at the board of supervisors' meeting to close the jail.

According to Stokes, if the motion passes, the facility would not close immediately. However, he believes it would be the first step to build a new detention center.

The District Five supervisor cites a recent audit that says the county has a good bond rating. Stokes says Hinds County will soon pay off several bonds, meaning there is a better chance that new bonds will be available to help build a new facility.

"Legally Hinds County is on notice that there's a problem a there. Now, if someone is hurt, whether it's a county employee or whether a prisoner, a inmate, if someone is hurt and you have knowledge that there's problems out there and you don't cure those problems then you liable," says Stokes.

He says other issues, such as location and the city of Jackson's role will have to be played out in the coming weeks.

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