Marysville jail staff faced major challenges while housing a troubled man for more than a week, and their efforts to show him respect and compassion did not go unnoticed.
Police Chief Erik Scairpon commended the Police Department’s Custody Team for their extraordinary work during the nine days this inmate was housed at the Marysville Jail, booked on several charges including assault, and experiencing a major mental health crisis.
In mid-August, the inmate was booked into the Marysville Jail before being transferred to the Snohomish County Jail. While in custody at the county, he threatened and attempted suicide, ripped a mattress apart, and smeared his own waste throughout his cell over the course of more than a week.
Custody staff exhausted all available options when trying to secure a more appropriate housing alternative for the inmate. When left with no other recourse, he was brought back to the Marysville Jail. Once there, staff continued their efforts to find a secure facility that offered better options than the Marysville Jail. It was only after those nine days a successful option was located and logistically worked out. While at the Marysville Jail, custody staff housed and managed the inmate without any use of force, despite the typical staffing or technical training for this level of mental health crisis.
“One officer brought him crayons and a coloring book. He was given a Bible. He was offered a shower and a plan was put in place to make that happen. He was respected and in return, he was manageable,” Chief Scairpon wrote in his letter of commendation.
“Our entire Jail staff was outstanding when dealing with him. That can be attributed to them treating him with respect, listening and talking to him.”
After nine days in the Marysville jail, the individual was evaluated and transported to Providence Hospital for mental health treatment.
“I cannot begin to explain the humanity, decency and professionalism displayed by our staff. Every officer on every shift contributed to the overall success of this challenge.”