ANNISTON, Ala. — In a dramatic turn of events, several rehabilitation centers in Calhoun County have been ordered to close, following a sweeping investigation that uncovered a litany of fire code and safety violations. The Alabama Fire Marshal’s Office took decisive action against Restoration Recovery Outreach & Company Inc., shuttering four facilities that had long served as a refuge for individuals battling addiction.
The closures, affecting three locations in Anniston and one in Lincoln, came after mounting complaints about deplorable living conditions. Residents described overcrowded rooms and faulty fire alarms, painting a grim picture of life inside the centers.
The crackdown intensified when inspectors discovered that several registered sex offenders residing at the facilities were out of compliance with legal requirements. This revelation led to a flurry of arrest warrants, adding a layer of legal turmoil to an already fraught situation.
Community members expressed mixed reactions to the closures. While some lauded the enforcement of safety standards, others worried about the displaced residents’ future.
As the dust settles, the fate of those affected remains uncertain. The closures mark a significant chapter in Calhoun County’s ongoing struggle to balance public safety with compassionate care for its most vulnerable citizens.