PASCO, WA — The Franklin County Board of Commissioners has transferred oversight of the county jail from the elected sheriff to a newly established Department of Corrections, prompting strong opposition from Sheriff Jim Raymond.

The decision was made by formal resolution, signed by Commissioners Rocky Mullen, Clint Didier, and Stephen Bauman on April 17, 2025, and took effect immediately. The resolution creates the Franklin County Department of Corrections, which now holds full authority over jail operations, staffing, budget, equipment, and policies—responsibilities previously managed by the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office.

According to the resolution, the change aims to improve management of jail operations and address concerns raised by the Washington State Auditor’s Office.

Key actions outlined in the resolution include:

• Transferring jail staff, authority, and equipment to the new department.

• Reassigning control of the jail budget (Fund 134).

• Retaining current jail policies and procedures under the department’s oversight.

• Reviewing and updating existing contracts and agreements.

Sheriff Raymond responded in a written statement to the board, sharply criticizing the move. He stated that the sheriff’s office was not informed of the resolution prior to its public posting and had no opportunity to participate in planning or coordination.

Raymond expressed concern that all jail staff, currently commissioned sheriff’s deputies, would immediately lose their legal authority under the sheriff’s office. He warned that the lack of a transition plan could create significant operational and legal uncertainty.

He also questioned the financial impact of the shift, noting that commissioner-managed jails in other counties often carry higher costs due to duplicated training and increased administrative demands. He further cautioned that the county may lose its National Institute of Corrections accreditation and the associated cost savings.

The sheriff emphasized that the facility houses more than 200 inmates, including individuals charged with serious violent crimes. He described the resolution as politically motivated and said the decision was made without transparency or public engagement.

“This type of endeavor normally takes months, if not years, to properly plan and execute,” Raymond wrote. “Lives are at stake and being jeopardized for political reasons.”