UNNECESSARY DETENTIONS LEAD TO INJUSTICES

We recently have seen another inmate take his own life at the Brevard
County Detention Center, and once again serious questions need answers for
the well-being of all involved -- inmates, corrections officers and the
families of both.

We need to confront the issue of nonviolent inmates remaining in jail prior
to trial.

How many of the jail's inmates are there on misdemeanor crimes and minor
drug charges? How much per diem money does the county receive from the
federal government for each inmate in custody? Is corrections about big money?

Three suicides during a six-week period presents a huge red flag indicating
things are amiss within the overcrowded facility.

Let's ask Brevard's judges why they continue to deny or set ridiculously
high bonds for many accused of nonviolent offenses. The jail has become the
poster child for a system needing reform.

Bill Gaines, Cape Canaveral