The jail's rates of violence have worsened under Sheriff Susan Hutson, and her staff faces near-daily attacks or harassment.

Nearly a decade ago, New Orleans officials hailed their new jail as a harbinger of change.

When it was built, it was top of the line,” said Reed. “It was the best jail in the United States. But if you don’t maintain it, it’s going to go down. And they did not maintain it." ...