Kentucky's attorney general says jail canteen funds should not be used to purchase security cameras in jails.
The AG's opinion Monday responded to a question from LaRue County Attorney Kyle Williamson. He asked whether state law governing expenditure of jail canteen funds allows for the purchase of cameras for the safety and protection of inmates.
State law says allowable expenditures include but aren't limited to recreational, vocational and medical purposes.
Assistant Attorney General James Herrick wrote that ensuring a safe environment is part of a jail's "basic obligation" to inmates. As a result, Herrick says security cameras should be funded from a jail's operating budget and aren't a proper expenditure of canteen funds under law.
Williamson said Monday he was looking for guidance on the issue and will rely on the opinion.
