STAFF REPORT
Glasgow News 1
Barren County is taking steps to upgrade personnel equipment at its detention center following action this week by the fiscal court.
Magistrates unanimously approved an authorizing resolution during the Barren County Fiscal Court meeting on March 5 at 9 a.m. The measure allows Judge-Executive Jamie Bewley Byrd to seek money from the Law Enforcement Protection Program, often used by local agencies to buy protective and enforcement equipment.
The requested grant funds would be used to purchase 15 new tasers for use by correction staff at the Barren County Detention Center, according to the resolution provided by the Barren County Fiscal Court clerk.
Barren County Jailer Aaron Shirley told Glasgow News 1 that their current tasers are being discontinued, and the ones his officers are using are beginning to tear up.
“It costs around $130,000 to replace all of them,” Shirley said. “We are applying for a grant…for the safety and security of not only our staff, but also for the safety and security of our facility.”
The authorization does not spend county funds, but it clears the way for the judge-executive to submit the formal funding request through the Law Enforcement Protection Program.
Key Facts
– Barren County Fiscal Court met March 5 at 9 a.m.
– Magistrates unanimously approved an authorizing resolution.
– Judge-Executive Jamie Bewley Byrd may now seek Law Enforcement Protection Program funds.
– The money would pay for 15 new tasers.
– The tasers are designated for Barren County Detention Center correction staff.
– Details come from a resolution provided by the fiscal court clerk.
Michael Crimmins with Glasgow News 1 contributed to this story.
