Douglas Co. Sheriff Responds to Video, Jan. 28

The Sheriff’s Office has reviewed the facts surrounding the incident involving the individual depicted in the video outside of the Douglas County Jail which had been posted to social media. While initially, the video appears to be disturbing, there are additional facts we feel are critically important for the community to know. Max Randol Stafford was booked into the Douglas County Jail on a charge of Criminal Trespass II on Thursday, January 17, 2019 at 12:09 am. At approximately 9:15 am, Mr. Stafford was ordered to be released from the Douglas County Jail by the Winston Municipal Court. A Registered Nurse with the contracted jail medical provider attempted to speak with Mr. Stafford prior to his release. Mr. Stafford would not speak to the nurse. While attempting to prepare him for release, Mr. Stafford refused to get dressed or cooperate with deputies. Mr. Stafford was given several opportunities to get dressed, but refused to do so and continued to lie on the ground. Deputies attempted to help Mr. Stafford to his feet, but Mr. Stafford became actively resistive. His clothing had been placed in a plastic bag and was placed outside of the jail facility door. No longer having any lawful authority to keep Mr. Stafford in jail, he was escorted from the facility, while he physically resisted by refusing to walk, trying to plant his feet and bracing himself against the facility exit door. He was officially outside of the jail facility at 9:43:30 am. Mr. Stafford chose to lie down on the ground outside of the facility. He apparently dumped his clothing out of the plastic bag and used the plastic bag to cover himself. At 9:45:00 am, 1 minute and 30 seconds later, two citizens walk up, apparently recording their interaction with Mr. Stafford. Mr. Stafford has previously been booked into the Douglas County Jail 43 times since 2003. He has been written up several times for refusing to move cells and obey orders from jail staff. The general behavior in all previous write-ups is similar to that shown throughout this instance. Laying stagnant, refusing to speak and pretending to be asleep. Mr. Stafford has displayed similar behaviors to law enforcement in the field when he is being arrested. In this instance, as well as historically, Mr. Stafford refuses assistance and resources when offered to him. We believe these facts are important details that must be taken into consideration when viewing the video. We appreciate those who have waited for these facts to come out before making critical comments or forming opinions about the matter. The Sheriff’s Office prides itself in its working relationship with civic organizations and community partners and routinely offers resources to those in need, whether incarcerated or not. However, it is difficult to help someone who refuses assistance and does not meet the criteria of a police intervention.