LaredoBuzz.Com

Laredo, Texas – In an act of friendship, professional courtesy and a vision to foster strong relationships, Bexar County Sheriff Amadeo Ortiz made a trip to Laredo this morning to offer his thoughts on the existing conditions at the Webb County jail.

Sheriff Ortiz served 25 years with the San Antonio Police Department where he achieved the rank of Captain after 25 years of distinguished service. Upon retirement from the San Antonio Police Department Sheriff Ortiz joined the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office where he served as the Jail Administrator and Deputy Chief before being elected to the position of Sheriff of Bexar County.

After a sit down meeting with Sheriff Martin Cuellar and his staff to discuss issues at the local lockup Sheriff Cuellar took Sheriff Ortiz on a full tour of the local jail. Sheriff Ortiz offered the following suggestions;

1.    An increase in the number of Correction Officers at the jail

2.    Secure the Sally Port (Vehicular access to the jail) with a perimeter fence on both sides of the Sally Port.

3.    Install state of the art camera system throughout the jail.

4.    Increase in Medical Staff

5.    Have a Mental Health evaluator on all three shifts.

6.    Install metal and Narcotics Portals at all points of entry to the Jail

7.    Upgrade all software to minimize paperwork.

8.    Conduct specialized training for correction officers

“My command staff and I are reviewing the best practices from several offices around the state to help modernize our operations and find efficiencies that will make Webb County families safer and save tax dollars”.  Said Sheriff Martin Cuellar