West Virginia’s newly appointed Homeland Security Inspector General, Mike Honaker, is taking proactive steps to address concerns about conditions in the state’s jails. Prompted by a letter from the House Jails and Prisons Committee, Honaker has initiated unannounced visits to facilities, spending long days talking with workers and inmates to conduct a comprehensive inspection.
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Delegate David Kelly Drives Call for Change: Homeland Security Inspector General Takes Charge Amidst Crisis in West Virginia’s Jails
The committee, led by Delegate David Kelly, expressed concerns about recent allegations involving correctional officers and the ongoing State of Emergency due to staffing shortages in jails and prisons. In November, Kelly requested an independent investigation into the conditions, staffing, maintenance, grievance process, use of force, and overall compliance with state and federal mandates.
Honaker, a former Marine and state trooper, was appointed to the newly created Homeland Security Inspector General position in August. He is taking a hands-on approach by not announcing his visits and personally selecting inmates and employees to interview.
Conditions in West Virginia’s jails have raised widespread concern, including overcrowding, highlighted in a class-action lawsuit. Over the past decade, 100 deaths have been reported in the state’s jails, with 25 occurring in the Southern Regional Jail in the last five years.
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Homeland Security Inspector General Launches Thorough Jail Inspections in West Virginia
Six former corrections officers face indictments related to the beating death of Quantez Burks at Southern Regional Jail. Honaker, as the Homeland Security Inspector General, aims to form his own impressions during facility visits, inspecting everything from lunch offerings to medical equipment, and interviewing inmates and staff.
Honaker’s inspections began in December and will likely continue into spring. As the Homeland Security Inspector General, his findings will be compiled into a report submitted to the Governor’s Office. Despite the challenges faced, Honaker notes positive cooperation from facility superintendents and their willingness to welcome the Homeland Security Inspector General into clean and well-maintained facilities. The comprehensive review, led by the Homeland Security Inspector General, aims to bring transparency and address concerns surrounding West Virginia’s jail conditions.
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