Arizona Department Of Corrections Moves More Than 700 Inmates Over Security Concerns

By Jimmy Jenkins
Published: Thursday, May 16, 2019 - 4:01pm
Updated: Monday, May 20, 2019 - 8:04am

In response to security problems at a state prison in Buckeye, the Arizona Department of Corrections has moved more than 700 inmates to different locations.

After leaked security footage showed locks at the Lewis prison could be compromised, ADC responded by putting padlocks on the doors.

That move raised concern with the state fire marshal, who only signed off because the locks would be temporary.

In a statement released Wednesday, ADC says it moved 716 close-custody inmates to other state-operated prisons.

The department said it is still looking for long-term solutions for door and locking systems.

EDITOR'S NOTE: The story has been updated to correct the number of inmates moved. 

Arizona State Prison Complex – Lewis
Jimmy Jenkins/KJZZ
Arizona State Prison Complex – Lewis in Buckeye.