Overcrowding Issues Lead to Tennessee Inmate Transfer

STEWART COUNTY, Tenn. — Female inmates in the Stewart County Jail in Dover, Tenn., are now being housed in another facility in nearby Henry County due to the jail losing its certification from the state.
 
A recent inspection by the Tennessee Corrections Institute turned up several areas that must be changed in order for the jail to remain certified. An uncertified jail is not allowed to operate. On average, the jail has been holding six female inmates in a cell designed for three.
 
Henry County Sheriff Monte Belew has agreed to house the female inmates at the state rate, which is much lower than the rate requested from other surrounding counties that would be able to house them.