MEMPHIS, TN – The Justice & Safety Alliance (JSA) has issued an open letter to the Shelby County Commission and County Mayor, calling on them to reject the proposed $15.5 million emergency funding request for the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO). The full text of the letter can be found at this link.
In the letter, the JSA expresses significant concerns over diverting funds from the Mental Health Safety and Justice Center to cover jail repairs, arguing that such a move reinforces an outdated emphasis on incarceration over prevention and treatment. The JSA highlights SCSO’s substantial $200 million annual budget and suggests that internal reallocations be explored before granting additional funds.
Highlights from the Open Letter include:
- Questionable Urgency: JSA questions the emergency nature of the funding request given existing budget allocations and unfilled positions within the SCSO.
- Lack of Transparency: The sudden request for additional funding lacks a detailed breakdown of costs, raising concerns about fiscal accountability.
- Alternative Investments: The letter proposes several evidence-based alternatives that promise more positive impacts on public safety and community well-being:
- Investment in violence intervention and restorative justice programs.
- Expansion of mental health services and re-entry programs for at-risk youth.
- Support for the Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) to prevent service cuts.
- Maintenance of funding for essential mental health and justice services.
The Justice & Safety Alliance urges the Shelby County Commission to consider these alternatives during tonight’s meeting to better serve the community’s needs and align with the “More for Memphis” vision, which aims to improve social and economic mobility and address disparities affecting people of color.
The JSA is prepared to work with county officials to implement these solutions, advocating for policies and funding priorities that truly prioritize the well-being and safety of all Shelby County’s residents.
