Monroe County Jail to Be Fogged for Mold Remediation

Written from press release:

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. (Aug. 27, 2025) — Sheriff Ruben Marte commended staff and local officials Wednesday for their cooperation in addressing minor mold findings at the Monroe County Jail through what he called an “innovative” remediation plan.

Environmental testing conducted by VET Environmental Engineering found only trace amounts of mold spores in the jail, which lab results indicated were at “acceptable levels.” Still, Marte said he moved forward with remediation out of an abundance of caution.

The process involves fogging affected areas, which must remain unoccupied for three hours, followed by a thorough wipe-down before reentry. Because the work must be completed in phases, sections of the jail are being temporarily vacated.

Ordinarily, such a procedure could require transporting more than 200 residents to other facilities across central Indiana, potentially disrupting court hearings, limiting visitation, and interfering with electronic communications. Instead, Marte’s team developed a plan to house residents in courtroom areas of the Monroe County Justice Center while work is completed.

“This solution allows residents to remain in Monroe County, close to their families and the courts, while we work to ensure a safe facility,” Marte said in a statement.

The sheriff praised the collaboration of his staff, as well as support from Monroe County judges, the Clerk’s Office, Prosecutor’s Office, County Council, and Board of Commissioners.

“I am proud of my staff for the creativity and compassion they have shown during this process,” Marte said. “By working together, we are protecting the health of our residents and staff while maintaining dignity and care.”

Remediation requiring partial evacuation began Wednesday and is expected to continue through Thursday. Officials said Thursday’s work will not require moving residents outside the jail, as they can be relocated within the facility. Once complete, all affected areas will be fully remediated, with linens laundered and surfaces wiped down.

The post Monroe County Jail to Be Fogged for Mold Remediation first appeared on The Bloomingtonian.