Justice Department probe into jails

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - In that 50-page report released by the US Justice Department, some of the inmates shared stories of unsanitary conditions and violent beatings by deputies .

The probe began almost two years ago, and when investigators wanted to get into the jails, the Chris Collins adminstration wouldn't let them.

Accusations have been brought to light in a report by the U.S. Justice Department including claims that inmates were beaten by deputies and in one case, according to the report an inmate of the County's Correctional Facility in Alden, died of a stroke after deputies smashed his head against a wall.

County Attorney Cheryl Green says these are false claims.

Green said, "Much of whats included in this report simply is not based on any real evidence."

So, why then was the department of justice refused access to the jails, if there was nothing to hide?

Green says the county would have allowed the visit if a county stenographer and attorney were allowed to be present.

In the end Green says their decison was for the publics best interest

"They come into a jurisdiction with the sole thought in mind of finding a problem," said Green.

The report says, the County's unreasonable denial of our request is especially troubling, given that inmates committed suicide in March & April of 2008, the months that investigators were trying to gain access.

"This in some ways gives whoever decides to file lawsuits greater ammunition because now you've got a record from the Federal Government, saying here are the deficiencies at the jail, and they've known about it for some time and haven't fixed it, that's bad," said Erie County Comptroller Mark Poloncarz.

The Justice Department has given the County 49 days to address the problems, or face a possible lawsuit by the Federal Government.

Erie County responds to jail complaint, August 12, 2009.