Did David Crowley approve providing tablets to jail inmates?

Yes.

Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley gave final approval to a 2022 contract requested by the Sheriff’s Office and approved by the Board of Supervisors that provides communication tablets to county jail and House of Correction inmates.

Crowley, the Democratic candidate for governor, also approved a three-year extension in 2025.

According to the Sheriff’s Office:

Generally all inmates can access tablets, which can be used for text messages. People who want to message with inmates must create an account.

The tablets cannot access the internet. They can access the contractor’s “intranet,” which includes entertainment and educational material.

The goal is to help inmates “stay connected to family, loved ones, and legal and support services,” the county executive’s office said.

The tablets became an issue in the gubernatorial campaign after a judge Aug. 28 raised questions about their use for witness intimidation, victim harassment and child pornography access.

This Fact Brief is responsive to conversations such as this one.

Sources

• Milwaukee County Legislative Information Center: File 21-1004
• Milwaukee County Legislative Information Center: File 250222
• Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office: Email
• Milwaukee County Executive's Office: Email
• Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Tiffany said he would block violent inmates from electronic devices

Originally published by Wisconsin Watch.