News Summary

Fifty-three inmates from the Beaufort County Detention Center have been temporarily relocated to the Charleston County Jail due to severe plumbing issues. The transfer occurred on March 25 and is expected to last approximately three weeks. Concerns have been raised regarding the conditions for inmates remaining at Beaufort, including exposure to harmful substances during ongoing repairs. Family members have expressed worries about potential violations of the 8th Amendment regarding cruel and unusual punishment as inmates report inadequate ventilation and harmful materials in their environment.

Charleston, SC

Fifty-three inmates from the Beaufort County Detention Center have been temporarily transferred to the Charleston County Jail due to significant plumbing issues at their facility.

The transfer took place on Tuesday, March 25, and the inmates are expected to remain at the Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center in Charleston for approximately three weeks while repairs are conducted.

Key Details:

• The Beaufort County Detention Center will pay $15 per day for each inmate’s medical care and meals.
• A one-time fee of $50 per inmate is designated for intake and screening processes.
• If any inmate requires a hospital escort, an additional charge of $52 per day applies.
• Staff from Beaufort County will work at the Charleston facility where the inmates are housed.

While the majority of inmates have been moved, some remain at the Beaufort facility due to space limitations in Charleston County Jail. Reports indicate that these remaining inmates have faced exposure to dust and chemical fumes from ongoing plumbing repairs.

Concerns Raised:

• Family members of the remaining inmates have expressed concerns regarding potential violations of the 8th Amendment, which protects against cruel and unusual punishment.
• Inmates reported being confined to dormitories with harmful substances and inadequate ventilation.
• Details shared by an inmate highlighted exposure to various harmful materials and fumes from construction activities.

Beaufort County officials have not confirmed if adequate ventilation is being provided, but they mentioned relocating some inmates to different areas within the facility to address complaints. The plumbing construction work at Beaufort is expected to last for the duration of three weeks.

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