Fort Smith, ARK – Washington County officials are raising questions about the mysterious disappearance of 76 steel jail cell doors from a former county jail facility, now under the sheriff’s office’s jurisdiction. The doors, which were removed during the building’s use as a women’s correctional facility by the state, have left county leaders searching for answers as they plan the jail’s renovation.
Judge Patrick Deakins, who is spearheading the inquiry, expressed frustration over the lack of transparency from the state regarding the missing doors. Despite repeated requests for information, Deakins said the county has only received vague rumors and outdated accounts from the state. “To remove 76 steel jail doors from a facility would’ve been a pretty good undertaking. That’s not like misplacing a pencil,” he said.
The former correctional facility, which had housed female inmates, was vacated by the state a few months ago, leaving the county with the task of reclaiming the building. While Deakins is concerned about the physical absence of the doors, he also voiced worries about the building’s overall state of repair. He explained that the county is now assessing the full scope of necessary renovations, including mechanical systems and other operational aspects of the facility.
The missing doors, valued at more than $3,000 each, represent a significant financial burden. With the county facing the added cost of repairs, Judge Deakins has questioned whether the state will assist with funding. In past interactions, the state has not provided financial support, and Deakins does not expect a change in that stance.
“We’re going to try and hold the state accountable,” he said. “But if they refuse to do the right thing, we in Washington County will continue to do the right thing and we’re going to work to do more of the right thing with this facility.”
As the new year begins, Washington County remains in limbo, awaiting answers from the state about the fate of the missing jail doors. Deakins and other county officials continue to advocate for clarification and accountability, even as they prepare to move forward independently with the facility’s renovation.
Stay tuned for further updates as the situation unfolds.