UW Students Challenge Dane County Plan for 825-Bed Jail Facility

A proposal to merge aging jail facilities into a new tower would reduce the bed count in Dane County, Wisconsin, from 1,013 to 825. The plan also seeks to eliminate or reduce solitary confinement. The county intends to consolidate outdated downtown structures into a facility attached to the Dane County Public Safety building.

The jail proposal drew criticism during a panel discussion held at Union South on Oct. 7. The event was organized by Students Against Mass Incarceration, a new student group at the university. Dr. David Pate, a professor of consumer science and human development and family studies, served as moderator.

Panelists addressed disparities in the state's justice system. Shar-ron Buie, a coordinator for the Dane County Office of Justice and Reform, reported that Black Wisconsinites face arrest at 12 times the rate of white residents. She stated that Wisconsin holds the second-highest Black-white incarceration disparity in the country.

James Morgan, a community organizer with Madison Organizing in Strength, Equity and Solidarity for Criminal Legal System Reform, criticized the jail consolidation proposal. He called the plan "totally inadequate" for people facing mental health issues and alcoholism. Morgan also expressed concern regarding population growth over the next 10 to 20 years, stating, "They're not talking about adequate housing." Wisconsin Public Defender Benjamin Gonring addressed recidivism, noting a gap of 24.5% in 2016 between 20- to 24-year-olds and those over 45, and added, "These children need investment."

Gabriel-Herron, vice president of the student organization, described the group's goals. He stated the organization seeks a "comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system in Madison, and creating an environment for discourse and discussion." Students Against Mass Incarceration plans several events for the year, including a visit to the Dane County Jail.