FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 21, 2022

Town Hall: ACC Jail Conditions & Public Safety Concerns

Athens Anti-Discrimination Movement to host town hall to discuss ACC Jail conditions

Athens, GA. – Throughout 2019 to 2021, the Athens Anti-Discrimination Movement (AADM) received numerous complaints regarding the conditions at the Athens-Clarke County (ACC) Jail. Complaints included, but were not limited to, inmate civil rights violations, inmate abuse and mistreatment, privacy violations, 23-hour lockdowns, and poor facility conditions. Family members of inmates have expressed deep concern for their loved ones’ well being. 

In addition to complaints made by inmates and their loved ones, ACC Jail employees have complained of severe understaffing, hostility, and sexual misconduct. The AADM also believes that jail employees have a right to a fair and safe work environment; no employee should fear facing hostility and retaliation for raising concerns about the workplace. Command staff have the utmost responsibility for securing a safe and productive work environment. 

The AADM believes that inmates are United States citizens and human beings; they should enjoy the same rights and protections as everyone else and their family members should not have to worry about their loved ones being harmed while in custody by those sworn to protect and serve our communities. 

To address these issues and to seek resolution, the AADM will host a public town hall to discuss the current conditions of the ACC Jail in comparison to the 2019 Sheriff’s audit report. The town hall will be held on March 31, 2022 at the AADM Justice Center & Bookstore (3700 Atlanta Highway, inside Georgia Square Mall) from 5:30 to 7pm. Attend in person or online by registering at Zoom Link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcqdeCvrT4rGdcHsCnn4kT5ekpYf_cwL61X

We will be joined by ACC commissioner Mariah Parker and victims of mistreatment. The AADM invites the public, the Mayor and Commission, and the Sheriff to join us for this open discussion. The AADM also urges this matter to be brought to the newly established Public Safety Civilian Oversight Board for investigation. 

For more information or for media interviews regarding this event please contact Knowa D. Johnson, VP of the AADM at knowajohnson@gmail.com or admin@aadmovement.org 

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