County sheriff’s deputies seek to cut inmate transportation costs by utilizing the Metro Light Rail. Passenger safety concerns have obviously been raised.
"Armed deputies will transport extradited inmates from the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport to the Fourth Avenue Jail. Deputies seek to eliminate the parking fees and expenses associated with inmate transport. Sheriff officials estimate the scheme will cut about $72,000 in costs."
"The inmates are not required to be separated from other commuters but Metro Light Rail officials are concerned that passengers may still object to the new arrangement and fear for their safety, Metro Light Rail spokeswoman Hillary Foose said."
"'Every day law enforcement is transporting inmates on airplanes, on trains, so this is nothing unusual other than we're using the new light rail to transport prisoners,' Arpaio said."
Thanks to Ryan Cook
FULL STORY: Sheriff's Office to transport inmates via light rail
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