STORM2K

Jail Installs ATM For Bail Money
Move Meant To Ease Crowding

POSTED: 10:32 a.m. EDT May 19, 2003

AUBURN, Me. -- There's a new cash machine in Auburn -- at the county jail.

Cash-strapped inmates can now use bank cards to come up with bail money.

Officials believe their ATM is the first in the state behind bars.


Jail administrator Capt. John Lebel said the jailhouse cash machine is especially useful for people arrested on minor offenses. He noted that the charge of driving without a license usually carries a $50 bail, plus $40 for the bail commissioner's fee.

That's $90, more than most people typically carry.

Lebel said he proposed the ATM to ease jail crowding, so prisoners wouldn't have to stay overnight until the banks open.


Gee Lets make "Jail" a lil easeir on the poor criminals

This practice is nothing new, not to me anyway. Here in Pascagoula they have had an ATM machine in the PD for well over 10 years now. I stop by and use it when I need cash for something. At least I know I do not have to worry about getting robbed while using that one. lol.