Pine Bluff, Arkansas – A newly released state inspection report has concluded that the W.C. “Dub” Brassell Adult Detention Center in Jefferson County is operating in compliance with Arkansas Jail Standards, pushing back against recent social media claims alleging deficiencies at the facility. The annual inspection, conducted December 5, 2025, and publicly released on February 10, 2026, found the jail met required standards across all major operational areas.
The report reviewed administration, staffing, security procedures, medical and mental health care, food service, detainee rights, safety measures, record keeping, and facility operations. Inspectors determined the detention center complied with state requirements in each category, providing an official assessment that counters online allegations suggesting the facility was failing to meet standards.
Inspection Findings and Facility Conditions
According to the state’s findings, the detention center is rated for 300 beds, with an operational capacity of approximately 240 beds. The average daily population in 2025 was reported at 240 inmates, while the population on the day of inspection stood at 227. The report noted that inmate totals in 2025 were lower than in 2024 and recognized the county’s efforts to better manage population levels.
Inspectors acknowledged that the facility can become crowded at times but reported that the sheriff’s office has “recently launched new efforts to reduce inmate population rates,” including transferring inmates to other jails when necessary. These steps were noted as part of ongoing strategies to maintain safe housing levels and improve operational efficiency.
The Review Committee commended staff for progress made in population management and operational improvements. Over the past year, Jefferson County invested approximately $150,000 in site updates, maintenance, and facility upgrades. Inspectors observed a clean kitchen, required safety equipment, automated external defibrillators, emergency gear, rights postings, and proper procedural documentation throughout the facility.
The inspection checklist shows the jail was marked “In Compliance” across sections covering written policies, personnel files, jail standards training, detainee classification, security procedures, medical services, food service operations, visitation policies, safety plans, and infrastructure. The committee also noted improvements in staffing strategies and recruitment efforts aimed at strengthening operations.
Sheriff Responds to Misinformation Claims
Jefferson County Sheriff Lafayette Woods Jr. addressed the inspection findings and the controversy surrounding online criticism of the facility.
“The independent findings of the State’s Criminal Detention Facilities Review Committee speak for themselves,” Woods said. “The report affirms the work of detention staff and rebuts misinformation pushed by serial social-media agitators seeking to monetize outrage. We welcome oversight, invite inspections, and stand on the facts.”
Woods stressed that maintaining compliance requires constant attention and ongoing improvement rather than a one-time achievement.
“Operating a full-service detention facility is one of the most demanding responsibilities in county government,” he said. “Our team works around the clock to ensure constitutional care, safety, and professional standards. We will continue to invest in improvements and staffing to maintain that standard.”
Recognizing Staff Commitment and Professionalism
The sheriff publicly recognized the leadership team and staff credited with maintaining compliance and improving operations. Those acknowledged included Adult Jail Administrator Chief Deputy Bo Hudson, Assistant Adult Jail Administrator Major Jeremy Bennett, Captain Zekeyia Jackson, Lieutenant Keaira Hawkins, Lieutenant Joyce Marshall, Lieutenant Lawrence Goodloe, Lieutenant Ronald Scott, Sergeant Veronica Alexander, Sergeant Mauricia Bennett, Chief Robert Lee, Managing Nurse Erika Green, as well as kitchen and support staff.
“These men and women do not seek headlines,” Woods said. “They seek professionalism, safety, and accountability. This report reflects their dedication and the seriousness with which they take their duty to the citizens of Jefferson County.”
The report reinforces the facility’s compliance status while highlighting ongoing efforts to manage inmate populations, improve staffing, and maintain safe conditions. County officials emphasized that oversight and continuous improvement remain central to operating the detention center and ensuring safety for detainees, staff, and the community.
