Minnesota orders Hennepin County jail to cut inmate numbers due to safety concerns

The state of Minnesota has ordered Hennepin County jail to reduce its inmate population by 239 within eight days due to inadequate staffing and safety concerns. The jail currently holds 851 inmates, exceeding its capacity. Hennepin County Sheriff Dawanna Witt plans to appeal the order, stating that the reduction is not feasible in such a short time. The county is working to transfer about 180 inmates to other facilities. Recent inspections revealed that the jail failed to conduct required well-being checks, contributing to several inmate deaths. Staffing levels were also found to be insufficient during critical times, raising serious safety concerns.