15 Western Regional Jail guards on suspension - WOWK 13 Charleston, Huntington WV News, Weather, Sports

15 Western Regional Jail guards on suspension

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West Virginia's regional jail chief is concerned about what he calls a "buddy system" among guards at the Western Regional Jail.

Regional Jail and Correctional Facility Authority executive director Joe DeLong says 15 correctional officers at the Barboursville jail are on suspension. Some are accused of using excessive force against inmates. Others allegedly brought contraband into the jail.

DeLong says some of the guards are accused of helping to cover up wrongdoing. That concerns him more than the use of force.

Media outlets report that DeLong voiced his concerns Monday during an appearance before an interim legislative committee.

DeLong told lawmakers that the authority wants to install surveillance cameras in the regional jails. But it will require a significant investment of funds.

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