The quick action of Corrections Officer, Melba Quarterman prevented the possible death of an inmate. Earlier today at approximately 12:20 p.m., Officer Quarterman was involved in doing a routine security check of a cell area on the third floor of the Hamilton County Jail. She noticed that someone had placed a blanket in the food slot opening of the cell and went to check. As she approached the cell door she noticed that an inmate was attempting to hang himself and had tied sheets to the screen area of the cell and then around his neck.

Officer Quarterman called for assistance and Officer Jerry Fain came to assist her. When they entered the cell area the inmate became extremely combative and had to be handcuffed before he was transferred to medical for treatment and observation. He will then be transported to an area mental facility.

The quick response and actions from both Officer Melba Quarterman and Officer Jerry Fain, directly reflects on their extensive training and knowing what to do in a stressful situation.