MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – Jail overcrowding has been a problem in Marquette County for years. The current Sheriff and the full County Board are in agreement that something has to be done.
On Tuesday the Marquette County Commission voted to proceed with phase one of jail improvements. Phase one will consist of retaining a consultant to assess their needs, and space requirements, facility renderings, and a construction plan. According to Marquette County Sheriff, Greg Zyburt, the aging jail was originally built to hold 60 inmates, however, it was expanded later to a capacity of 80, which Zyburt explains is still not enough. Zyburt says that once the jail is at capacity, convicted, non-violent inmates may be released due to overcrowding.
“We have a jail plan, and anything over 80, we start discussing with the judges the courts, and my staff on who we should release. The lesser of the evil to put back into the public,” said Zyburt.
Zyburt blames the rise in jail population on the popularity of Marquette County as a destination. Another big factor is the prevalence of Methamphetamine, stating that drugs often lead to persons committing more serious crimes while under the influence. Sheriff Zyburt believes that drug abuse treatment should be considered
“Ideally, my big dream is to get some type of treatment, slash incarceration. You have to have it and mix it together so you have both,” explained the Sheriff.
The County Commissioners voted unanimously to fund the initial phase of the project. County Board Chairman Joe Derocha believes that now is the right time to solve the jail’s problems.
“What we’re looking forward to is finding out what the numbers need to be, the projected numbers. How many beds, do we need to add? Currently, 80 is the capacity. We’re currently at like 92,” Said Derocha.
Until a new jail is realized the county will continue to use temporary measures like housing inmates at other Upper Peninsula jails.
The County Board and the Sheriff’s Department will decide whether to remodel, rebuild, or relocate the jail at a later date.
