Inmates have been without air conditioning for roughly a month, but Lt. Col. Wayne Jarvis said detention center officials should know by the end of today when a new air conditioning unit will be installed.

Lt. Col. Jarvis said temperatures in the second-floor cells average 80 degrees, and fans are being used to keep inmates cool. Large jugs of ice water are delivered several times a day.

"We're doing everything in here we can for everybody," Lt. Col. Jarvis said.

Lt. Col. Jarvis said the air conditioning unit is roughly 20 years old.

Richard Bricken, a local criminal defense attorney who has clients in the detention center, said he has researched the broken air condition situation.

"I have at least one client out there who calls me and tells me that he can't stand it, it's too hot," Mr. Bricken said.

Jane Heon, of Frederick , has a relative at the detention center. She said she has been told the conditions are unbearable.

Lt. Col. Jarvis said he did not know of any inmates who required medical attention because of the heat.

Inmates are allowed to wear shorts and can find relief from the heat during recreation times in other parts of the detention center, he said.

"I walked through the jail myself today," Lt. Col. Jarvis said Wednesday afternoon. "It's not that bad today. People are making it worse than it is, but it is warm."

Lt. Col. Jarvis said his staff has been working in the jail in full uniform without complaint.

Mr. Bricken said swift action is needed to provide a suitable living situation for inmates.

Post your comments » Round 2: Snow expected to fall today, Wednesday Fast on the heels of the largest 24-hour snowfall to hit the Frederick County since 1983, meteorologists are predicting another round of heavy snow and wind to hit today. The National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning Monday afternoon for the area, including Frederick County, and said 10 to 20 inches of snow is possible by Wednesday night. Weather-related closings, delays A list follows of weather-related closings and cancellations for this week. Fire and police blotter Police search for robber School closures cause makeup schedule revision Even though Frederick County Public Schools are closed today -- using the sixth snow day this school year -- the school system will not hold school on the Monday Presidents Day holiday as the first scheduled snow makeup day. Crowds pay respect to fallen marine Even U.S. Marines couldn't hold back tears Monday at the viewing of their colleague, Sgt. David Smith. The procession to the Frederick Christian Fellowship Church was led by Frederick County Sheriff's deputies. Dressed in full military regalia, Marines carried Smith's casket into the church followed by family members as more Marines stood at attention.