Arpaio to inmates: Learn basic English

PHOENIX — Sheriff Joe Arpaio, known for his tough jail policies, is offering basic English classes to inmates who don't speak the language and might make it a requirement if prisoners stop volunteering for the courses.
Arpaio said Tuesday that the inability of some inmates to speak English has caused problems for Maricopa County jail officers and even prompted complaints from English-speaking prisoners.
"They are in the United States, and they should start speaking English," said Arpaio, who is known for making inmates wear pink underwear and take part in old-style chain gangs in striped uniforms.