The Cleburne County Jail, located at 914 S 9th St, Heber Springs, Alabama, is a medium-to-low security facility operated by the Cleburne County Sheriff’s Department under Sheriff Chris D. Ragsdale. The facility houses approximately 80 inmates and provides comprehensive services, including medical care, rehabilitation programs, and legal resources. Inmates undergo thorough booking procedures, receive facility-issued clothing, and have access to educational opportunities, substance abuse treatment, and religious services. The jail maintains strict security protocols while offering various communication options for inmates, including scheduled visitation and electronic messaging. Further investigation discloses an institution committed to both security and inmate development.
Cleburne County Jail Operations & Overview
Cleburne County Jail, classified as a medium-to-low security facility, plays a crucial role in the local justice system, ensuring the community’s safety while providing oversight and rehabilitation for incarcerated individuals.
The facility is governed by the Cleburne County Sheriff’s Department, currently led by Sheriff Chris D. Ragsdale, and operates under the guidelines set forth by the Alabama Department of Corrections. Strategically located at 140 Lambert Dr, Heflin, Alabama, the jail remains accessible for operational needs and community engagement.
Staffed by a dedicated team, the facility maintains a capacity of approximately 80 inmates, predominantly male, aged between 18 and 85 years. All visitors must be 17 or older unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. This demographic overview highlights the jail’s commitment to managing a diverse population while implementing key operational policies prioritizing security and efficiency.
Staff members, ranging from correctional officers to medical professionals, embody the core values of respect, integrity, and accountability, ensuring inmates receive appropriate care and support throughout incarceration.
The jail implements robust health and safety protocols, providing medical services through qualified physicians and mental health practitioners who address physical and emotional well-being. The facility offers email and tablet access as part of its modern communication initiatives.
Rehabilitation programs focus on behavioral modification and cognitive transformation, offering inmates opportunities for personal growth and development. Spiritual needs are met through religious services such as weekly Bible studies and the Celebration of Hope, fostering a supportive environment for reflection and change.
Despite challenges associated with aging infrastructure, particularly in plumbing systems, the facility continues to uphold state standards through ongoing improvements and collaboration with the Cleburne County Sheriff’s Department.
The commitment to community partnership enhances the operational effectiveness of the jail, ensuring that it meets the evolving needs of the population it serves.
Cleburne County Jail
914 S 9th Street
Heber Springs, AR 72543
(501) 362-2596
Initial Processing & Booking
Upon arrival at Cleburne County Jail, each detainee participates in an extensive booking procedure that involves several critical steps to ensure security and accurate record-keeping. Initially, staff members collect essential personal information, including the individual’s name, date of birth, and the nature of the offense. Following this, the detainee undergoes fingerprinting and is photographed, which serves as a definitive means of identification and record creation. This initial data collection is pivotal, establishing a comprehensive profile for each individual entering the facility. Staff assigns each inmate a unique booking number identifier for tracking purposes throughout their detention period. The jail also conducts a thorough background check to identify outstanding warrants or previous criminal history.
After the identification phase, detainees must surrender their personal belongings for safekeeping. Staff securely store items such as wallets, jewelry, and clothing in designated property bins, ensuring no contraband enters the facility. Simultaneously, detainees change into facility-issued clothing, typically standardized jumpsuits designed for safety and uniformity. This transition promotes security and fosters a sense of order within the facility.
Next, a thorough health screening takes place. Qualified medical personnel conduct evaluations, including checking vital signs, assessing physical and mental health, and identifying immediate medical needs. This initial health assessment is crucial, as it helps identify individuals who may require urgent medical attention or ongoing support during detention.
In conjunction with health screenings, staff perform an initial security assessment to evaluate potential risks the detainee poses. This comprehensive review typically involves checking for prior offenses, behavioral issues, and any known affiliations that may impact facility safety.
As part of the rights notification process, detainees receive clear information about their rights and the facility’s rules. Staff members explain the rights to legal counsel and access to medical care, ensuring that each detainee understands the protocols in place. This step not only helps uphold the legal rights of individuals but also fosters transparency and trust between detainees and staff.
Following these procedures, detainees are assigned to temporary housing based on their initial assessments. The classification process considers factors such as the nature of the offense, potential security risks, and health assessments to determine appropriate housing units. This careful consideration ensures that individuals are housed in a manner that maintains safety and order within the facility while addressing any specific needs identified during the booking and screening processes.
Each step in this systematic approach is vital to the overall management of Cleburne County Jail, ensuring that detainees are processed efficiently and safely while adhering to legal and health standards.
Helpful Resource: Cleburne County mugshot access
Helpful Resource: Cleburne County Jail Inmate Search
Inmate Housing Assignment & Classification Process
Cleburne County Jail implements a comprehensive classification system that meticulously evaluates inmates through a point-based framework, assessing various criteria to determine their housing assignments. This process prioritizes factors such as the severity of the offense, historical convictions, and any previous disciplinary actions. Clinical recommendations are carefully considered when determining appropriate housing assignments for inmates with mental health or cognitive impairments. Additionally, it considers individual case aspects, notably medical and mental health requirements, ensuring that inmates are housed in an environment that meets their specific needs. By employing this detailed classification, the jail enhances safety and promotes rehabilitation for its residents. Like the first-come, first-served basis used in many institutional housing systems, inmates are processed and assigned housing units based on availability and classification level.
Upon intake, inmates undergo a thorough orientation, familiarizing them with the Integrated Housing Program. This program utilizes standardized procedures to assess housing compatibility, factoring in racial dynamics and security levels to prevent inmate conflicts. The jail categorizes housing units into various types, including minimum security and maximum security units, each designed to accommodate different classifications of inmates based on their assessed risk.
For example, individuals classified as low-risk may be assigned to minimum security units that are less restrictive. At the same time, high-risk offenders are placed in more secure environments to mitigate potential threats.
Certain inmates may qualify for special housing considerations due to unique circumstances. For instance, individuals with significant mental health challenges may receive placement in dedicated units that provide specialized care and support. This tailored approach aims to facilitate a safer and more constructive living situation, ensuring inmates receive the necessary resources for their rehabilitation.
Furthermore, housing assignments can evolve through the classification review process, which occurs annually to reassess inmate behavior and participation in programs. During these reviews, staff evaluates changes in conduct and engagement, allowing for modifications in housing assignments based on the inmate’s progress or regress.
Movement between classifications reflects inmates’ behavioral changes and program participation, enabling a dynamic response to their evolving circumstances. For example, an inmate who demonstrates good behavior and actively engages in educational programs may be considered for reassignment to a less restrictive unit. In contrast, those exhibiting problematic behavior may face escalated security measures.
Housing restrictions and requirements also play a significant role; inmates must adhere to specific policies that govern their assigned units, including restrictions on movement and interaction with particular individuals. These regulations are critical for maintaining order and safety within the facility, as they help to prevent potential conflicts and ensure that appropriate levels of supervision are maintained.
Safety Protocols & Security Operations
Inside the Cleburne County Jail, daily security protocols and procedures ensure the safety of both inmates and staff through meticulous planning and execution. Staff members conduct regular head counts, verifying the presence of all inmates at scheduled intervals, typically every hour, to maintain accountability and prevent escapes. During these counts, correctional officers utilize handheld devices allowing real-time documentation, streamlining the process and reducing potential errors.
Contraband prevention and detection are critical aspects of the facility’s security operations. Officers implement thorough search procedures, including pat-downs and using metal detectors during inmate movement, ensuring that unauthorized items do not enter or circulate within the facility. The jail also employs canine units trained to detect drugs and other contraband, conducting random searches in common areas and during inmate transfers to enhance security measures further.
Emergency response procedures are rigorously practiced, equipping staff with the skills to react swiftly to various crises. Officers participate in regular drills that simulate riots or medical emergencies, fostering a culture of preparedness. The jail’s control center operates continuously, monitoring surveillance feeds from over 100 cameras strategically placed throughout the facility, allowing immediate intervention if any suspicious activity is detected.
Maintaining movement control is vital to ensuring the orderly flow of inmates within the facility. Staff utilizes a system of coded passes and electronic access controls to manage inmate transfer between housing units, recreation areas, and medical services. This structured approach minimizes the risk of altercations and maintains security during transitions.
Incident reporting and response are critical components of the jail’s operational integrity. Each incident, from minor rule violations to significant disturbances, requires detailed documentation through an electronic reporting system that captures essential information such as time, location, and involved parties. This data not only aids in immediate response but also contributes to long-term analysis of trends and potential areas for improvement.
The use of advanced security equipment complements these procedures. Officers are equipped with body-worn cameras that record interactions and incidents, providing an objective account that can be reviewed during investigations. Additionally, the facility employs state-of-the-art communication systems that enable instant contact between officers in different jail areas, ensuring a rapid response to incidents.
This comprehensive approach to security incorporates multiple layers of protection, creating a secure environment that prioritizes the safety of inmates and staff alike. Through vigilant adherence to protocols and the effective utilization of technology, the Cleburne County Jail demonstrates a commitment to operational excellence and the well-being of all individuals within its walls.
Cleburne County Jail Inmate Support Services & Development Programs
Cleburne County Jail maintains comprehensive support services that encompass medical care, recreational activities, educational programs, and religious services for inmates.
The facility’s development programs incorporate cognitive intervention strategies, rehabilitation initiatives, and job training opportunities to facilitate successful community reintegration.
These structured programs and services promote personal growth, reduce recidivism rates, and prepare inmates for productive reentry into society through targeted interventions and skill development.
Basic Inmate Services
Cleburne County Jail prioritizes the health and well-being of its inmates through a robust array of medical services and access to healthcare professionals. Qualified physicians and nurses conduct thorough health assessments, ensuring timely diagnosis and treatment of medical concerns. Inmates benefit from various health services, including routine check-ups and emergency medical attention, aligning with state correctional healthcare standards. A structured pharmacy system facilitates Access to necessary medications, allowing inmates to request refills or new prescriptions as needed.
Mental health services are critical to the facility’s comprehensive care approach. Licensed mental health professionals deliver counseling and support, addressing various psychological needs. Inmates participate in regular mental health evaluations, which enable tailored treatment plans that may include therapy sessions or medication management. This proactive approach ensures that individuals receive the mental health support required to cope with the challenges of incarceration.
Meal service at Cleburne County Jail emphasizes nutrition and dietary accommodations to promote inmate health. The facility provides three well-balanced meals daily, with careful attention to nutritional guidelines and calorie counts, typically offering around 2,500 calories per day. Special dietary needs, such as vegetarian options or food allergies, are accommodated upon request, ensuring all inmates receive appropriate sustenance. Each meal incorporates fresh produce and whole grains when possible, fostering a healthier lifestyle.
Maintaining hygiene is essential in the jail environment; inmates can access hygiene products and laundry services. To promote cleanliness, the facility provides personal hygiene items, such as soap, shampoo, and toothpaste. Laundry services operate weekly, allowing inmates to wash their clothing and linens, thus ensuring a sanitary living environment. This routine not only supports health but also contributes to the overall morale of inmates.
Commissary operations enhance the daily experience of inmates by allowing them to purchase additional items such as snacks, personal care products, and writing materials. Inmates can order items from a catalog using funds from their accounts, with typically a weekly expenditure limit. This system not only provides inmates with a sense of control over their daily lives but also serves as an incentive for good behavior, as they earn privileges to access the commissary.
Religious services offer inmates opportunities for spiritual growth and support. Weekly Bible studies are conducted alongside various faith-based group meetings, available upon request. These gatherings allow inmates to explore their beliefs, seek guidance, and find comfort in their faith during challenging times. The facility accommodates different religious practices, ensuring that all inmates can engage in spiritual activities that resonate with their beliefs.
Recreation access is vital to inmate life, promoting physical well-being and mental health. Inmates participate in structured recreational activities, including outdoor exercise and organized sports, several times a week. This physical engagement encourages fitness and fosters social interaction among inmates, helping to alleviate feelings of isolation.
Library services further enrich the inmates’ experience by providing access to a diverse collection of books, magazines, and educational materials. Inmates can request reading materials, expanding their knowledge and improving their literacy skills. The library serves as a source of entertainment and a resource for personal development, with many inmates utilizing it to prepare for future educational or vocational opportunities.
Education & Recovery Programs
Cleburne County Jail actively fosters personal growth and rehabilitation through robust educational programs and vocational training opportunities. Inmates engage in GED (General Educational Development) preparation via inmate tablets, which provide access to various subjects such as reading, writing, mathematics, and science. This initiative empowers individuals to obtain high school equivalency, significantly enhancing their employability and life prospects post-release.
Collaborating with local educational institutions further enriches these learning experiences, ensuring inmates receive quality instruction and resources.
Vocational training programs equip inmates with practical skills essential for the workforce. Courses in areas like carpentry, welding, and computer technology impart technical abilities and prepare participants for specific job markets. By participating in these hands-on training sessions, inmates gain certifications that improve their chances of securing employment upon reentry into society.
Eligibility for these programs typically requires inmates to maintain good behavior and demonstrate a commitment to self-improvement.
Addressing the critical issue of substance abuse, the jail implements comprehensive treatment programs focused on recovery and behavioral change. These initiatives provide inmates struggling with addiction access to counseling and therapy sessions facilitated by licensed professionals. Participants learn coping strategies and techniques to manage cravings, significantly reducing the likelihood of relapse.
Successful completion of these programs often hinges on consistent attendance, active participation, and a willingness to engage in personal reflection and growth.
Life skills training complements the educational and vocational offerings by preparing inmates for the challenges of daily living after incarceration. This training includes financial literacy, communication skills, and conflict resolution, vital for successful reintegration.
Inmates who complete these courses demonstrate improved interpersonal skills and enhanced decision-making capabilities, which are crucial for navigating life outside jail.
In addition to education and recovery initiatives, Cleburne County Jail offers work programs that allow inmates to gain practical experience while serving their sentences. These programs involve various tasks such as facility maintenance, food service, and agriculture, providing inmates with a sense of responsibility and accomplishment.
Participants must meet specific criteria, including good behavior and a willingness to contribute positively to the facility environment. Completing work programs often leads to letters of recommendation and potential job placements after release, further aiding in their transition into society.
Overall, the various programs at Cleburne County Jail provide inmates with essential skills and knowledge and establish a foundation for long-term success. By actively engaging in educational pursuits, vocational training, and recovery efforts, inmates are better prepared to reintegrate into their communities and break the cycle of recidivism.
Successful completion of these programs, marked by commitment and personal growth, ultimately transforms the lives of individuals, fostering a more positive future.
Communication & Visitation Guidelines
At Cleburne County Jail, inmates can use various communication methods to foster connections with their families and friends.
Scheduled visitation periods require planning, as visits must be arranged at least 24 hours beforehand via the facility’s website. Each visit permits a maximum of two adult visitors, and minors must be accompanied by an adult at all times. To ensure the safety and security of the facility, all visitors must undergo a background check and present valid photo identification upon arrival.
Maintain respectful conduct during visits, as all interactions are subject to monitoring. Any visitor with a felony conviction may need special permission from the sheriff to gain access. Additionally, individuals recently released from Cleburne County Jail face a restriction period of six to twelve months before being eligible for visitation privileges.
Children visiting the facility must adhere to specific policies. Adults accompanying minors are responsible for their behavior and must ensure they remain supervised throughout the visit. This careful oversight helps maintain a respectful environment for all inmates and visitors.
In addition to in-person visits, inmates can utilize electronic communication options, such as Access Corrections Secure Mail. This digital messaging service allows contacts to purchase credits for sending messages to inmates using tablets or kiosks located within the facility.
Electronic messages undergo thorough scanning and staff review to maintain security protocols.
Mail procedures also play a critical role in inmate communication. Inmates can receive letters and packages, but all items are subject to inspection. Adhering to guidelines regarding allowable content is essential to ensure smooth processing.
Access to the telephone system enables inmates to call approved contacts during designated hours. These calls are typically monitored for security reasons, which helps maintain safety within the facility.
Inmate Legal Resources & Protected Rights
Understanding and exercising legal rights forms a fundamental part of life for inmates at Cleburne County Jail. Inmates possess constitutional protections, including due process, which safeguards against arbitrary denial of their rights. They also maintain the freedom to file grievances without fear of retaliation, ensuring they can address concerns regarding their treatment or living conditions.
The jail establishes a formal grievance procedure that mandates thorough investigations and allows for appeal processes. This structured approach empowers inmates to voice their issues, fostering a sense of agency within the confines of incarceration.
Access to legal resources plays a crucial role in supporting inmates’ rights and responsibilities. The facility provides a law library with essential legal texts and materials, enabling inmates to research case law and prepare for legal battles. Inmates can also obtain necessary court documents, which are vital for understanding their charges and navigating the judicial system effectively.
Those preparing for court appearances benefit from designated times to meet with legal representatives, ensuring they can discuss their cases thoroughly. Inmates have the right to communicate privately with their attorneys, a privilege critical for legal strategies and advice confidentiality.
Court appearance procedures facilitate inmates’ participation in their legal proceedings. Inmates are typically transported to court by jail staff, who ensure all security protocols are followed. This transportation allows inmates to present their cases before a judge, adhere to court schedules, and actively engage in the legal process.
Additionally, the facility recognizes and supports inmates’ right to legal representation, ensuring they have access to qualified attorneys who can advocate during criminal proceedings.
Bail bond information remains readily available to inmates navigating the complexities of pretrial release. The jail provides detailed guidelines on pursuing bail bonds, including the financial requirements and processes involved.
Inmates can learn about different types of bonds, such as cash or surety bonds, which offer various pathways to secure release from custody. By understanding these options, inmates can better strategize their approach to obtaining freedom while awaiting trial, empowering them to take an active role in their legal journey.
Cleburne County Public Defender & District Attorney
In Cleburne County, legal representation is vital for ensuring all individuals have access to justice. The Public Defender’s Office plays a crucial role in this landscape by representing defendants who cannot afford private legal counsel. Appointments are made through the court system for eligible individuals, ensuring that those facing charges can receive expert legal advice and representation throughout their court proceedings.
The dedicated public defenders work tirelessly, advocating for their client’s rights and navigating complex legal frameworks to secure fair outcomes.
For those facing criminal charges, the District Attorney’s Office is responsible for prosecuting cases on behalf of the government. This office operates out of 120 Vickery Street, Heflin, AL 36264, and can be contacted at (256) 231-1770. The District Attorney’s Office team diligently investigates and prepares cases to uphold the law and ensure accountability within the community.
While they are committed to pursuing justice, it is essential to note that they do not provide legal advice to the public, as their primary focus lies in prosecutorial duties. Individuals seeking guidance on legal representation can turn to the Circuit Clerk’s Office, located at (256) 463-2651, for assistance and information on available resources.
The collaboration between the Public Defender’s Office and the District Attorney’s Office exemplifies the checks and balances within the judicial system. Each entity fulfills its distinct responsibilities, contributing to the overall function of the legal system in Cleburne County.
Public defenders advocate for the rights of the accused. At the same time, the District Attorney’s Office maintains public safety and upholds the rule of law, ensuring that justice is served fairly and equitably. This dynamic fosters a more just society and reinforces the importance of legal representation in safeguarding individual rights.
Release & Community Preparation
The release planning process at Cleburne County Jail emphasizes the importance of preparing inmates for a successful transition back into the community. Inmates engage in program completion requirements, which include participation in educational and rehabilitation programs designed to enhance their skills and address underlying issues such as substance abuse and mental health challenges. For instance, completion of a substance abuse treatment program can significantly improve an individual’s chances of finding stable employment upon release.
Community resource connections are critical in this preparation, as inmates can access various agencies that assist with post-release services. Organizations like HEARTS and the Alabama Career Center provide tailored employment assistance, helping individuals navigate job searches and secure positions that align with their skill sets. These agencies often collaborate with the State Board of Probation and Parole, ensuring that individuals understand their obligations while receiving the support necessary to reintegrate successfully.
Housing assistance remains a crucial aspect of post-release support, with local shelters and transitional housing programs ready to accommodate individuals lacking stable living conditions. Many of these programs offer structured environments that facilitate adjustment to life outside incarceration, allowing individuals to focus on rebuilding their lives.
Continued treatment options further enhance this support system, as individuals can access mental health services and substance abuse treatment programs even after their release. This ongoing care is vital for those who have previously struggled with addiction or mental health issues, offering a safety net to prevent relapse.
Family reunification support also plays a significant role in the reintegration process. Programs dedicated to reconnecting individuals with their families can help mend relationships that may have been strained during incarceration. This support often includes counseling services and family therapy sessions, instrumental in fostering a stable home environment.
Additional Resource: Alabama Department of Corrections-state directory
Cleburne County Jail Performance Metrics & Compliance Reports
Cleburne County Jail actively monitors its operational standards to ensure state and federal regulations compliance. Regular assessments reveal challenges in several areas, particularly in tuberculosis (TB) screening protocols, which are inconsistent and fail to meet recommended guidelines.
Additionally, staff training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) exhibits notable deficiencies, undermining the facility’s ability to respond effectively to medical emergencies.
Incident statistics indicate that the facility’s arrest rates surpass national averages, raising concerns about its capacity to effectively manage a fluctuating jail population. Strategies aimed at population management have been implemented; however, they often struggle against rising operational costs.
The jail’s budget allocation necessitates careful consideration, particularly as discussions regarding flat monthly fee proposals for jailing services continue. Such proposals could provide a more predictable financial framework for better resource distribution.
Compliance monitoring plays a critical role in identifying program success rates, particularly in areas such as suicide prevention training. The facility currently lacks adequate documentation of training efforts, which is essential for ensuring staff readiness to address mental health crises.
Furthermore, the inconsistency in one-to-one monitoring procedures raises alarms about detainee safety. Medical record management also requires improvement, particularly for outgoing detainees, where deficiencies can hinder continuity of care.
Operational challenges persist, particularly with the jail’s infrastructure, highlighted by its emergency sirens’ limited functionality—only 17 of the 22 sirens are operational across a coverage area of 561 square miles. This shortfall compromises the facility’s ability to respond to incidents promptly.
Despite maintaining liability insurance coverage of $17,000 annually, the jail must navigate these pressing operational hurdles while striving to enhance staff training programs to prepare personnel for diverse and potentially critical scenarios.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Wear When Visiting the Cleburne County Jail?
Wear modest clothing that meets dress code requirements: no sleeveless tops, halter tops, see-through items, or miniskirts. Avoid khaki/green military-style clothing. Skirts must be of appropriate length with proper undergarments.
How Long Does Fingerprint Processing Typically Take During Booking?
Live Scan fingerprint processing during booking typically takes 24-72 hours for initial results, though peak periods or poor print quality may extend processing time up to 7 days.
Can I Send Magazines or Newspapers to an Inmate?
Yes, you can send magazines and newspapers to inmates, but they must come directly from publishers or authorized distributors. The content will be inspected for security and must not contain obscene material.
Are Inmates Allowed to Receive Prescription Eyeglasses From Home?
Inmates can typically receive prescription eyeglasses from home, but they must meet facility safety standards, be properly packaged, and include proper documentation. Prior approval from medical staff is usually required.
What Happens if an Inmate Needs Emergency Dental Care?
Inmates can access emergency dental care through Medical Sick Call systems. Treatment is prioritized based on severity, addressing severe pain, infections, or trauma. Licensed dentists provide necessary procedures and medication.