Letter to the editor

This letter is being written in answer to questions which have been posed to me regarding my requests to the Panola County Board of Supervisors on Monday, February 7, 2011.

I do not feel that I demanded any changes as was referenced in Billy Davis’ article. But, I did make suggestions of what was needed by our department in order to properly house federal inmates. My asking for four jailers to help with the daily operations of dealing with inmates was to ensure the safety of employees as well as the inmates.

Also, it is required that two certified deputies transport all federal inmates. Jason Chrestman is already certified, therefore, we will utilize his experience and another deputy from the road who is not on duty at the time to help with transport. Therefore, we are not asking to hire additional deputies, but already employed deputies, thus, saving tax dollars. But in the jail we are required to have 24/7 supervision. Therefore, the request for additional jailers is justified.

Also, in order to transport federal inmates, the vehicle used for transport must meet certain requirements.  We will be using a vehicle which is already in our fleet, thus saving tax dollars.

We will make the necessary changes to bring it up to standards required.

As far as the requests for pay raises for certain employees, each employee will be assuming new and additional duties, therefore, I feel a pay increase is in order.

I do not feel that the requests I asked for were out of range.  Each and every change that I asked for is needed to provide safety for all involved including the citizens of Panola County.  

Once again, please let me state that I did not demand, but respectfully brought these issues before the Board of Supervisors.

Thank you for your time.

Otis Griffin

Sheriff