The Clarke County Jail, located at 149 Clark St, Grove Hill, Alabama, operates under Sheriff William Ray and the Clarke County Sheriff’s Office. The facility manages approximately 142 inmates daily, offering comprehensive support services, including medical care, educational programs, and substance abuse treatment. Initial processing involves detailed booking procedures, health screenings, and classification assessments. Inmates can access legal resources, visitation rights, and multiple communication options through systems like Penmate and JPay. The facility maintains transparent financial practices with documented receipts of $3,462,772.32 and provides various rehabilitation programs to support successful community reintegration. Further examination discloses extensive protocols and resources available to inmates and their families.
Clarke County AL Jail Operations & Overview
The Clarke County Jail, located at 149 Clark St, Grove Hill, Alabama 36451, is governed by the Clarke County Sheriff’s Office, currently led by Sheriff William Ray. This facility adheres to the regulatory framework established by the Code of Alabama 1975, Section 14-6-1, which mandates comprehensive law enforcement and correctional services within the county.
The jail implements a structured classification system that designates security levels for inmates based on the severity of their crimes, the length of their sentences, and their behavioral histories. This ensures that individuals are housed in environments that align with their risk profiles.
Occupying a physical space designed to accommodate approximately 120 inmates, the jail has a diverse demographic that reflects the broader community of Clarke County. The facility strives to provide various rehabilitative services, including educational programs to enhance inmates’ skills, healthcare services to address medical needs, and religious support for spiritual well-being. It maintains continuous camera surveillance to ensure the safety and security of all inmates and staff.
The Work Release Program, sanctioned under Section 14-8-31 of the Code of Alabama, promotes inmates’ reintegration into society by allowing qualified individuals to perform community work while serving their sentences.
The jail’s operational policies emphasize transparency and accountability, as evidenced by meticulous financial management practices. Reimbursements from municipalities, state funding for inmate care, and specific service fees contribute to the jail’s revenue, allowing for the maintenance of detailed records of all financial transactions.
This ensures the responsible allocation of resources for law enforcement, correctional operations, and inmate services while facilitating compliance with the oversight of the Alabama Department of Corrections.
A well-structured staff comprises trained correctional officers, social workers, medical personnel, and administrative support, each playing an integral role in maintaining security and promoting rehabilitation within the facility.
The staff members are committed to upholding core values of integrity, respect, and professionalism, fostering a safe and secure environment for inmates and staff. The collaborative efforts of the Clarke County Sheriff’s Office and the Alabama Department of Corrections underscore the commitment to effective management and the enhancement of community safety.
Clarke County Jail
149 Clark Street
Grove Hill, AL 36451
(251) 275-8132
Initial Processing & Booking
Upon arrival at Clarke County Jail, new arrestees immediately engage in a thorough booking procedure involving meticulously documenting personal information and conducting preliminary assessments. This process, typically lasting several hours but potentially extending up to 24 hours during high volume, begins with collecting essential details such as the arrestee’s full name, physical characteristics, and digital photographs for mugshot records.
Staff members assign each inmate a unique booking number, inmate identification number, and jacket number, which are essential for tracking within the facility’s comprehensive records system.
Following the initial documentation, the facility administers an initial health screening designed to identify any urgent medical issues or mental health concerns. Medical professionals conduct assessments that may involve basic vital signs checks, inquiries about pre-existing conditions, and evaluations of any immediate health needs.
This health screening plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and well-being of the individual while in custody and facilitating appropriate medical interventions if required.
As part of the processing, the jail carefully handles the property of incoming inmates, including personal belongings such as clothing, jewelry, and electronic devices. Staff members inventory these items, securely storing them to prevent loss or damage during incarceration. The facility processes approximately 3,440 offenders yearly through this systematic intake procedure.
Arrestees receive a detailed receipt of their stored items, which they can refer to upon release, ensuring a transparent and accountable property management process.
In conjunction with property handling, staff members inform arrestees of their rights, providing clear explanations about legal entitlements, access to legal counsel, and the conditions of their detention. This rights notification occurs during the initial processing stages, ensuring that individuals know their protections under the law.
Simultaneously, an initial security assessment is conducted to evaluate the arrestee’s behavior and potential risks to themselves or others within the facility. This assessment includes reviewing prior criminal history, current charges, and behavioral observations to determine the appropriate security level needed for each individual.
After completing these critical steps, the facility assigns temporary housing for the inmate based on the health screening, rights notification, and security assessment results.
Housing assignments are carefully considered, considering factors such as the inmate’s gender, age, and assessed risk level. This ensures that individuals are placed in environments conducive to their safety and the overall order of the facility.
The systematic approach to processing new arrivals at Clarke County Jail underscores the importance of a thorough and compassionate intake procedure, laying the groundwork for the subsequent phases of incarceration.
Helpful Resource: Clarke County mugshot access
Helpful Resource: Clarke County Jail Inmate Search
Inmate Housing Assignment & Classification Process
Clarke County Jail’s classification system rigorously assesses inmates based on various criteria to determine appropriate housing assignments. This structured approach considers criminal history, current charges, medical needs, and behavioral patterns, ensuring each inmate is placed in a housing unit that aligns with their designated security level.
For instance, inmates charged with violent offenses typically require higher security measures compared to those facing non-violent charges, thus influencing their placement within the facility’s designated housing units. Important classification decisions, such as establishing security risk levels, undergo a thorough review by facility staff trained to evaluate inmate behavior and potential threats.
The facility features several housing unit types, including general population, maximum security, and specialized units tailored for inmates with unique medical or mental health needs. Inmates assigned to general population units may experience a more communal living environment, while those in maximum security units face stricter protocols and limited interaction with others.
Special housing considerations come into play for inmates who exhibit behavioral issues or pose a risk to themselves or others, resulting in potential placement in administrative segregation, which isolates them from the general inmate population for safety reasons.
The classification review process is critical in ensuring fairness and transparency within the system. Inmates can appeal their classification decisions by submitting an Inmate Request/Complaint form within ten days.
The Classification Review Committee then evaluates these appeals, providing written notification of outcomes within the same timeframe. Furthermore, regular assessments occur for inmates in administrative segregation, allowing for potential reclassification if their circumstances or behavior change over time.
Unit assignment factors encompass various elements, including the severity of charges, individual behavior, and specific medical conditions that may require additional attention. For example, an inmate with chronic health issues could be assigned to a unit equipped with medical staff to adequately address their needs.
Ongoing evaluations facilitate movement between classifications, enabling inmates to transition to less restrictive environments if they demonstrate improved behavior or comply with facility regulations.
Housing restrictions and requirements further define the parameters within which inmates must operate. Each housing unit enforces specific rules tailored to its security level, such as limitations on personal belongings, visitation hours, and access to recreational activities.
These restrictions aim to maintain order and safety, ensuring all inmates can coexist within a structured environment while addressing their needs and circumstances.
Safety Protocols & Security Operations
Clarke County Jail employs rigorous daily security protocols and procedures to maintain a safe environment for inmates, staff, and visitors. Officers conduct thorough count procedures daily, verifying the presence and condition of every inmate at designated intervals, typically every hour during waking hours. This meticulous accountability ensures that discrepancies are immediately addressed and investigated, bolstering overall security.
Officers monitor inmate transitions throughout the facility to enhance movement control. They utilize a system of assigned escorts and designated pathways to prevent unauthorized access or interactions. Implementing SSL encryption protocols helps secure sensitive inmate data during digital transfers between different facility systems.
Contraband prevention and detection remain top priorities, with staff implementing multiple layers of security to thwart attempts to introduce prohibited items. Officers perform systematic searches of inmates, their belongings, and common areas, utilizing handheld metal detectors and drug detection canines when necessary. These proactive measures significantly reduce the risk of contraband entering the facility, as evidenced by the decline in contraband incidents over the past year.
In alignment with these preventative strategies, the jail maintains comprehensive emergency response procedures to swiftly address potential security breaches or critical incidents. In an emergency, such as a riot or medical crisis, the control center operations come into play, allowing for centralized communication and coordination among all security personnel.
Operators in the control center monitor live video feeds from over 100 surveillance cameras, ensuring rapid assessments of evolving situations. Incident reporting and response protocols are strictly followed, with officers documenting any unusual occurrences in real time. Each report undergoes a thorough review process to identify trends and enhance future preventative measures.
Advanced security equipment, including biometric scanners and reinforced entry points, further fortifies the facility against external threats, ensuring a fortified environment. By integrating these comprehensive measures, Clarke County Jail consistently upholds a secure atmosphere conducive to rehabilitation and safety.
Clarke County AL Jail Inmate Support Services & Development Programs
Clarke County Jail maintains comprehensive support services for inmate rehabilitation and development through various educational and recovery programs.
The facility offers adult basic education, GED preparation, and life skills training, complemented by healthcare services that address physical and mental well-being. Inmates can access monitored phone services between 7:30 AM and 10:00 PM to maintain family connections.
Religious support services and reentry programs further improve inmates’ opportunities for personal growth and successful reintegration into society upon release.
Basic Inmate Services
At the Clarke County Jail, medical services ensure inmates receive comprehensive healthcare through daily access to medical and dental professionals, who collaborate with the Department of Public Health to deliver timely care. This commitment to inmate health includes regular check-ups and emergency medical interventions, allowing inmates to address health issues promptly.
In addition to physical health, mental health services address the psychological needs of inmates, providing counseling for addiction and trauma, thereby promoting emotional stability and personal growth within the facility.
Meal services cater to dietary needs, offering balanced meals that adhere to nutritional guidelines while accommodating specific dietary restrictions, such as allergies or religious preferences. Each inmate receives three meals daily, designed to meet a standard caloric intake, ensuring that all dietary requirements are met to support overall well-being.
Hygiene and laundry services further enhance inmate comfort, with access to personal hygiene products and regular laundry service that maintains cleanliness and fosters a sense of dignity.
Commissary operations allow inmates to purchase additional food items, hygiene products, and personal care items, which can enhance their daily routine while offering a sense of autonomy. Inmates can order from a selection of approved items, and family or friends can deposit funds for purchases, creating a connection to their support system outside the jail. Under the supervision of Sheriff Ray Norris, the commissary maintains strict oversight of all transactions and inventory management.
Additionally, religious services allow inmates to participate in spiritual practices, offering a space for worship and reflection led by qualified chaplains. This supports their spiritual well-being and fosters community among inmates.
Recreation access is vital in promoting physical fitness and mental health. Facilities include outdoor spaces for exercise and organized sports activities. Inmates can engage in these recreational opportunities, contributing to stress relief and overall physical health.
Library services enhance intellectual engagement, providing access to diverse books and educational materials, allowing inmates to pursue self-improvement and expand their knowledge while incarcerated.
This multifaceted approach to inmate services at the Clarke County Jail ensures a supportive environment that fosters rehabilitation and personal development.
Education & Recovery Programs
Clarke County Jail actively addresses its inmate population’s educational and vocational needs through various structured programs designed to enhance personal development and facilitate successful reintegration into society. Inmates can enroll in Adult Basic Education programs that target essential literacy and numeracy skills, equipping them for GED certification or high school equivalency. These educational initiatives, bolstered by partnerships with community colleges, ensure that eligible inmates gain access to vital academic resources, fostering a foundation for lifelong learning.
In addition to academia, the jail offers Career Technical Education opportunities in high-demand vocational fields. These programs allow inmates to acquire industry-recognized credentials that significantly improve their employability upon release. Programs such as plumbing, carpentry, or computer technology provide practical skills and instill a sense of accomplishment and preparedness for the job market.
Participation in these vocational training programs is contingent upon meeting specific eligibility criteria, including a commitment to personal development and a willingness to engage in hands-on learning experiences.
Substance abuse treatment programs play a critical role in the rehabilitation process, offering inmates essential support to overcome addiction and related challenges. These programs incorporate evidence-based therapies and behavioral programs emphasizing coping strategies, emotional regulation, and relapse prevention techniques.
Inmates must complete preliminary assessments to qualify for these intensive treatment options, ensuring participants receive tailored support that addresses their unique circumstances and needs.
Life skills training complements these efforts by equipping inmates with practical tools for daily living. Courses in personal finance, communication, and conflict resolution foster self-sufficiency, preparing individuals for the demands of everyday life after incarceration.
Participation in these classes requires inmates to demonstrate a commitment to their personal growth, and completion often involves engaging in group activities and fulfilling specific assignments designed to reinforce learned concepts.
Work programs further enhance the transition from incarceration to community living, allowing inmates to gain real-world experience while contributing to the jail’s operations. Tasks may include kitchen duties, facility maintenance, or landscaping, and successful participation hinges on adherence to program guidelines and a consistent work ethic.
Inmates who meet completion requirements earn valuable references and a work history, greatly enhancing their chances of securing employment after release.
The jail’s comprehensive approach integrates these various components, ensuring that inmates actively participate in educational programs, vocational training, substance abuse treatment, behavioral programs, life skills training, and work programs receive the holistic support necessary for effective re-entry.
Each program has specific completion requirements that reinforce accountability and personal responsibility, ultimately guiding inmates toward recovery and successful integration into society.
Communication & Visitation Guidelines
The facility has established comprehensive procedures and guidelines to facilitate smooth visitations and effective communication with inmates at the Clarke County Alabama Jail. Visits occur on specific days depending on the inmate’s last name, with those whose last names begin with A through J allowed to visit on Tuesdays and Saturdays, while those with last names K through Z are permitted visits on Wednesdays and Sundays. Each visitation day includes three distinct sessions: the morning session from 9:00 AM to 10:45 AM, the afternoon session from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, and the evening session from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM.
Before any visits occur, inmates must complete visitation forms and receive approval for their intended visitors. This approval process ensures that only authorized individuals can access the facility, maintaining security and order. Visitors must present valid identification and documentation, as the facility allows a maximum of four adults and four minors to visit simultaneously.
Visitors should know that maintaining appropriate conduct during visits is crucial; disruptive behavior may result in immediate termination. For immediate family members traveling over 500 miles, the facility offers special provisions that allow for visitation every six months, recognizing the challenges faced by families living far from the jail. This flexibility aims to support family connections despite geographical barriers.
An adult must accompany children visiting, and the total number of children included in the visit cannot exceed four. All visitors must adhere to age-appropriate behavior to ensure a family-friendly environment at the facility.
In addition to in-person visits, inmates can communicate through various mail procedures. Inmates receive letters and packages sent through the postal service, which must comply with established guidelines regarding content and size. The facility encourages using electronic communication options such as Penmate, Securus, JPay, and Smart Jail Mail. These platforms enable inmates to send and receive messages and photos, providing an alternative means of staying connected with friends and family.
Access to the telephone system allows inmates to make calls to approved contacts. Phone calls are monitored for security purposes, and inmates must have funds in their accounts to place calls. This system ensures that communication remains secure and inmates can maintain ties with the outside world.
Inmate Legal Resources & Protected Rights
Clarke County Jail ensures that inmates possess essential legal rights during their incarceration. It allows them to communicate with the outside world through sending and receiving correspondence, all of which undergoes security screening. Inmates engage with grievance procedures to address complaints regarding their treatment or conditions, thus fostering a transparent environment where issues can be escalated and resolved. They can submit grievances in writing, and the facility commits to responding within a specific timeframe, ensuring that concerns are taken seriously and addressed appropriately.
Access to legal resources remains a priority, with inmates permitted to utilize the law library to research and prepare legal documents pertinent to their cases. This law library offers a range of legal texts and resources that facilitate informed decision-making. Furthermore, inmates can schedule attorney visits to discuss their cases privately, ensuring they receive professional legal counsel. These visits are arranged by facility protocols, prioritizing security and confidentiality in attorney-client communications.
Court appearance procedures are delineated. Inmates are transported to court hearings as required, and arrangements are made for timely appearances. The facility coordinates with local courts to ensure inmates can present their cases without delays.
For those eligible for release, bail bond information becomes accessible, allowing inmates or their families to understand the financial requirements for securing release. Inmates can inquire about the bail process and receive assistance connecting with bail bondsmen who can facilitate their release under the appropriate conditions.
The structured approach to legal rights, grievance processes, and resource access at Clarke County Jail reflects a commitment to upholding the dignity and rights of all inmates. By providing these avenues for legal recourse and support, the facility promotes a fair and just environment and empowers inmates to participate actively in their legal proceedings, thereby enhancing their chances of achieving favorable outcomes.
Clarke County AL Public Defender & District Attorney
Although Clarke County does not maintain a dedicated public defender’s office, individuals facing criminal charges can seek legal representation through various means, demonstrating a commitment to ensuring fair trial rights. For those in need of public defender services, it is essential to establish financial need, which typically involves providing documentation of income and expenses.
Legal assistance may be accessed through the Alabama State Bar Lawyer Referral Service, which supports connecting individuals to qualified attorneys. They can be reached at their toll-free number, 1-800-392-5660.
The District Attorney’s Office for Circuit 1 serves as the primary prosecutorial authority for Clarke, Washington, and Choctaw counties in Alabama. It oversees the prosecution of felony, misdemeanor, and juvenile cases. However, it excludes domestic relations and probate matters.
This office operates weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with a one-hour lunch break at noon. For inquiries regarding criminal proceedings or state civil actions, interested parties can contact the office at (251) 275-3144.
The District Attorney, elected to a six-year term, manages these critical functions from their office located at:
District Attorney’s Office
114 Court Street
Grove Hill, AL 36451
(251) 275-3144
Adjacent to the District Attorney’s office, the Probate Court handles matters related to estates, ensuring that the legal processes surrounding inheritance and wills are conducted according to state regulations.
This collaborative environment between the District Attorney’s office and other legal entities highlights a community-oriented approach to justice, aiming to uphold the rights of all individuals within Clarke County.
Release & Community Preparation
The release planning process at Clarke County Jail emphasizes thorough preparation for inmates transitioning back into the community, ensuring they have the tools necessary for successful reintegration. By collaborating with the State Board of Probation and Parole, the facility establishes precise program completion requirements for inmates before release, including participation in rehabilitative programs and employment training. These criteria enhance inmates’ skill sets and increase their employability upon reentry.
Building strong connections with community resources is crucial to the integration initiative. The jail facilitates partnerships with local organizations, offering inmates access to vital services such as employment assistance and housing support. For instance, inmates can connect with job placement agencies specializing in assisting individuals with criminal records. At the same time, housing programs provide information on affordable options, ensuring stable living conditions post-release. These connections significantly reduce recidivism by addressing inmates’ challenges upon returning to society.
Post-release services further enhance the support system for former inmates, focusing on continued treatment options for mental health and substance use disorders. The facility coordinates with community health organizations to ensure a seamless transition into outpatient programs, encouraging individuals to maintain progress and avoid relapse.
Family reunification support also forms a key facet of the post-release strategy, as the facility recognizes the importance of family ties in successful reintegration. Programs designed to improve communication and relationships with family members help foster a supportive environment for those returning home.
In addition to these services, the jail actively promotes employment assistance through vocational training and resume workshops conducted before release. These programs equip inmates with essential skills and knowledge, enabling them to enter the job market confidently.
As they prepare to embark on their new journey, the inmates are encouraged to utilize the resources available through the State Board of Probation and Parole, which offers guidance on navigating the complexities of their new lives, including compliance with any parole conditions.
Additional Resource: Alabama Department of Corrections – state directory
Clarke County AL Jail Performance Metrics & Compliance Reports
Clarke County Jail demonstrates pressing operational standards that require immediate attention, particularly given the average daily population of 142 inmates. Managing an influx of approximately 2,840 offenders annually, the facility navigates a complex landscape of resource allocation. Inmate feeding expenses alone total $421,530.98 during the review period, highlighting the significant budget allocation needed to maintain necessities. Addressing these costs effectively necessitates an in-depth analysis of spending patterns, especially as the facility grapples with financial oversight challenges, particularly in bank reconciliation compliance.
Compliance monitoring uncovers alarming trends, as the jail has repeatedly failed to conduct required monthly bank reconciliations. This oversight, which persists despite the facility recording total receipts of $3,462,772.32 against disbursements of $3,385,151.08, raises flags about the accuracy of financial reporting and the potential for fiscal vulnerability. The facility’s historical issues with compliance, noted in examinations from 2017 to 2021, underscore the need for a robust framework that ensures adherence to financial guidelines and promotes transparency in fiscal operations.
Incident statistics reveal further operational challenges concerning facility conditions and inmate safety. The jail faces scrutiny regarding inadequate maintenance and insufficient measures for suicide prevention, which are critical for inmate welfare. Limited video monitoring capabilities exacerbate these concerns, hindering the facility’s ability to respond effectively to incidents.
The need for enhanced data collection and quality control is evident, as these deficiencies indicate a broader requirement for systematic improvements in operational protocols and compliance procedures that align with legal mandates.
Program success rates also factor into the facility’s overall performance, as the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs influences inmate recidivism. Implementing evidence-based programs tailored to the needs of the inmate population can dramatically improve outcomes. However, the limited staff training opportunities currently available restrict the ability of personnel to deliver high-quality interventions, which could facilitate positive change.
Prioritizing comprehensive training initiatives will empower staff to better engage with inmates and effectively manage diverse behavioral needs within the population. Population management strategies must evolve to address the dynamic needs of inmates while maintaining safety and security within the facility.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Inmates Have Successfully Completed GED Programs in the Past Year?
Specific data for the past year’s GED completions is unavailable. National statistics show that approximately 22% of jail inmates complete GED programs, most achieving this during incarceration.
Are There Specific Programs or Support Services for Veterans in Custody?
Veterans in custody can access VA programs like Veterans Justice Outreach and Health Care for Reentry Veterans, which provide legal assistance, healthcare services, rehabilitation support, and post-release transition resources.
What Percentage of Inmates Return to Clarke County Jail Within Three Years?
While specific Clarke County Jail recidivism rates aren’t publicly available, Alabama’s three-year recidivism rate for Community Corrections Programs is 25.3%, which serves as the closest reference point for comparison.
Does the Jail Offer Mental Health Crisis Intervention Training for Staff?
Based on available information, while general jail management training is available, there is no clear evidence that the jail currently offers specific mental health crisis intervention training for staff.