August 19th, 2026 Local News
Wayne Co. Mo. (KFMO) - Wayne County Sheriff Kyle Shearrer has announced the temporary closure of the Wayne County Jail after staffing shortages left the facility unable to safely operate.
In a statement released this week, Sheriff Shearrer said he made the decision on July 8 after what he described as "a totality of events" resulted in an insufficient number of jail staff. He said the safety of inmates was the primary factor in the decision.
As part of the temporary closure, 15 Wayne County inmates have been transferred to the Madison County Jail, where they are currently being housed at a cost of $35 per inmate each day.
Sheriff Shearrer said the move also helps protect Wayne County and its citizens from potential civil and legal liability while giving the sheriff's office time to recruit, hire and train additional jail personnel.
The sheriff said he expects the arrangement to be temporary and hopes the time will allow the department to strengthen jail operations and improve the working environment for both employees and inmates.
Shearrer thanked the public for its continued support as the sheriff's office works to restore normal operations at the Wayne County Jail.