The Broward Sheriff's Office collects $400 every time the Social Security Administration learns about and suspends benefits for inmates within 30 days of their incarceration.
The Broward Public Defender's Office is raising pointed criticism of the Sheriff's Office because it does not take part in a system designed to help these inmates reinstate their benefits upon release.
"If they're turning the spigot off, they can help turn it back on, too," said Doug Brawley, a chief assistant public defender. ...
The county took in more than $211,000 through the program last year, according to budget reports. ...
The Sheriff's Office does not participate in the administration's pre-release agreement, said Patti Patterson, an administration spokeswoman.
Under such an agreement, jail staff would have a liaison at the local Social Security office who would help the staff navigate eligible inmates through the application process and match benefits reinstatement with release dates.
Jan 18, 2008
Turning The Spigot Off But Not Back On
From the South Florida Sun-Sentinel:
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2 comments:
No one else has government help in getting suspended benefits put back into current pay status, so why should ex-cons get help.
Plus what is the incentive for state and local governments if they get $400 for reporting and have to spend $400 or more in getting the benefits resumed.
As they say if you can't do the time, don't do the crime.
Note that the sheriff's office does NOT get paid every time SSA learns about and suspends benefits to inmates who are incarcerated. The sheriff's office only gets paid if the sheriff's office REPORTS the incarceration on a timely basis. Benefits can usually be reinstated quickly if the released inmate goes directly to SSA with proof of indentity and written proof that he was released.
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