Hamilton jail loses air conditioning

The air conditioning in the Hamilton County Jail went out this week and won't be restored until sometime next week, county officials said today.

More than 500 inmates on six floors are trying to keep cool using box fans, extra water and frequent servings of ice water, popsicles and ice cream, according to G.A. Bennett, director of support services in the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office.

In a news release, Bennett said a motor in the air conditioning unit failed. He said a new unit will be installed early next week.

He said inmates are being allowed to wear their jumpsuits just to the waist and the kitchen is looking at cold menus.

See Saturday's Times Free Press for complete coverage.

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