Cara’s Vision for Transparency and Accountability at the City Justice Center
Since 2020, 18 people have died while in the City’s custody at the City Justice Center (CJC), commonly called the City Jail. This is an unacceptable record by any standard of incarceration in the United States. It is made worse by the mayor’s refusal to allow access to the jail for the Detention Oversight Board or to follow the law regarding access for attorneys.
In April, a circuit judge issued an order requiring jail officials to allow detainees access to their constitutional right to attorneys after repeated complaints of obstruction. The findings of the Missouri State Auditor’s investigation earlier this year further emphasized these systemic failures. The summary of the probe noted that the Detention Facility Oversight Board, formed to review complaints and provide accountability, has been consistently blocked from performing its duties.
St. Louis Corrections Commissioner Jennifer Clemons-Abdullah, appointed by the mayor to run the CJC, has been on an unexplained leave for more than two months. The administration has yet to comment as to whether she will return. This lack of clarity raises serious questions about who is accountable for overseeing the jail's operations – while the number of deaths is rising.
In response to these alarming statistics and incidents, activists, social justice groups, and concerned citizens are united in their calls for urgent and sweeping reforms. The Justice Center must address its systemic issues to prevent further loss of life and to restore public trust.
As Mayor, Cara will:
Replace St. Louis Corrections Commissioner Jennifer Clemons-Abdullah.
Ensure the Detention Facility Oversight Board has access to the facility and relevant records to conduct independent audits, monitor conditions, and hold the facility accountable.
Ensure that detainees' grievances receive a proper review. A thorough and transparent process must Include grievances being taken seriously, addressed promptly, and not retaliated against. The lack of such oversight has contributed to a climate of fear and disregard for basic human rights within the facility.
Increase transparency and accountability of the administration of the CJC and ensure accurate reporting.
Improve conditions at the CJC. Immediate steps must be taken to address the deplorable conditions. This includes ensuring access to medical care, improving sanitation, and providing adequate food and water to people detained.