US Seeks Outside Control for Troubled New Orleans Jail
Source: Associated Press
The Justice Department on Monday asked a federal court to appoint a third party to operate the long-troubled New Orleans jail, saying new leadership is essential because the city's sheriff, Marlin Gusman, has failed after years of effort to improve conditions that endanger inmates.
The government, which was joined in the filing by lawyers for inmates, also sought to place Gusman in contempt over what it called his noncompliance with overhauls mandated in a settlement agreement involving the jail and the Justice Department and inmates.
"Although there is no question that receivership is an extraordinary remedy, so too is the level of harm that continues to plague the Jail, with no apparent end in sight," the Justice Department said in the court filing making the request. "The history of this case, the current state of consent judgment compliance, and the ongoing dangerous conditions demonstrate that receivership is the only path forward."
The city and Gusman, elected in 2004, did not immediately respond to emails seeking comment. Gusman has repeatedly said he is making progress in jail reforms and faulted the city for providing too little money.
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Read more: http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/us-seeks-control-troubled-orleans-jail-38653518
By KEVIN MCGILL AND ERIC TUCKER, ASSOCIATED PRESS
NEW ORLEANS — Apr 25, 2016, 1:36 PM ET
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