The Coosa County Jail, located at 1 School Street in Rockford, Alabama, operates as a medium-security facility under Sheriff Michael H. McDaniel’s oversight, with a capacity of 150 inmates. The facility maintains comprehensive inmate services, including medical care, rehabilitation programs, and legal resources, while adhering to PREA guidelines for safety. Initial processing includes thorough health screenings and classification assessments, with regular Saturday visitation. The jail’s $754,000 annual budget supports critical operations, staffing, and inmate welfare services. Additional facility details and procedures can improve understanding of this correctional institution’s full scope of operations.
Coosa County Jail Operations & Overview
Coosa County Jail operates under the vigilant oversight of Sheriff Michael H. McDaniel. This facility, classified as a medium-security institution, ensures the safety and security of inmates and the surrounding community through rigorous security protocols designed to manage a capacity of up to 150 inmates.
The jail accommodates a diverse demographic, including pre-trial detainees and sentenced individuals, reflecting a broad spectrum of backgrounds and offenses. The Alabama Department of Corrections provides regulatory guidance and support, helping to shape the operational policies that govern the facility. The facility maintains zero tolerance for any form of sexual abuse or harassment, following PREA guidelines.
The Sheriff’s Office is responsible for implementing these policies, including structured visitation schedules and allowing inmates two 15-minute weekly visits. Inmates must complete a one-week waiting period before they can receive any visitors. These visits are organized by cell blocks, ensuring orderly management while adhering to strict documentation requirements and compliance with facility regulations.
The facility also meticulously handles inmate property with a 30-day inventory management system, ensuring that personal belongings are tracked and stored appropriately. Sheriff McDaniel oversees a dedicated staff structure, which includes correctional officers, administrative personnel, and specialized support roles.
This team collaborates to maintain operational efficiency while upholding respect, accountability, and integrity. All staff members receive training to reinforce these standards, ensuring that interactions with inmates are conducted professionally and humanely.
The facility prioritizes transparency and community engagement, fostering trust between law enforcement and the public. Inmate welfare remains a primary focus, with the Sheriff managing food services through a state allowance of $1.75 per inmate daily, supplemented by a service allowance for meal preparation.
The jail’s operational framework emphasizes security and recognizes the importance of providing essential services, such as healthcare and recreational activities. This comprehensive approach promotes rehabilitation and prepares inmates for successful reintegration into society.
Coosa County Jail
1 School Street
Rockford, AL 35136
(256) 377-2211
Initial Processing & Booking
Upon arrival at the Coosa County Jail, individuals enter a detailed booking procedure that typically lasts 1 to 48 hours. Staff members promptly verify personal information, ensuring accuracy in identification records. They capture mugshots for future reference, a vital part of the identification process.
Health screenings commence immediately, where medical personnel assess vital signs and inquire about existing health conditions, identifying any immediate medical needs that must be addressed. During this initial processing phase, jail staff systematically determine formal charges against the inmate, which is crucial for establishing the legal framework of their detention.
They assess bail eligibility based on the nature of the charges, allowing for potential release through various bail payment options, including cash bonds or surety bonds. Inmates may remain in custody until their scheduled court appearance if they do not meet bail conditions. Individuals can reach the facility at 256-377-2211 for inquiries regarding specific bond amounts. With approximately 1,440 arrests annually, the facility maintains efficient processing procedures to manage the steady flow of incoming detainees. During booking, inmates are informed that legal mail only must be sent directly to the facility address.
Inmates receive a notification of their rights at this stage, emphasizing their right to remain silent and seek legal counsel before discussing their case. This information is crucial as it helps individuals understand their legal protections and the importance of legal representation.
Alongside this, an initial security assessment occurs, wherein staff evaluate behavioral risks and determine any necessary precautions to ensure the safety of the inmates and the facility. As part of property handling, staff meticulously catalog personal belongings, securing them in designated storage areas until the inmate is released.
This process ensures that valuables are safeguarded while maintaining an accurate inventory of items for later return. After completing these procedures, inmates are assigned temporary housing within the facility. This housing placement considers various factors, including the inmate’s security classification and any medical needs identified during the initial health screening, ensuring appropriate accommodations are made.
Inmate Housing Assignment & Classification Process
The classification process at the Coosa County Jail initiates with a detailed evaluation of inmates based on several critical criteria, including criminal history, medical and mental health needs, substance abuse history, and educational background. This comprehensive assessment helps determine the appropriate custody levels, ranging from close security for high-risk inmates to minimum security for those deemed lower risk. Each inmate receives careful consideration to ensure their classification reflects their needs and the facility’s safety.
Housing assignments vary significantly, offering different types of units that cater to the specific requirements of inmates. The jail features linear units with barred cells that provide a more traditional confinement experience, while open dormitory-style accommodations can house up to 20 inmates, promoting a communal living environment. Additionally, the facility includes pod units designed to accommodate 56 inmates, facilitating a structured yet less restrictive atmosphere. Officers stationed within these housing units practice direct supervision, allowing immediate intervention and communication that fosters a safer environment. The Medical Unit healthcare is available around the clock to address any health-related needs within the housing units.
Special housing considerations come into play for inmates with unique needs, such as those requiring protective custody due to vulnerabilities or threats from other inmates. In such cases, the classification process ensures that these individuals are placed in more secure environments that mitigate risks while addressing their specific circumstances.
Regular reviews of classifications occur to reassess inmate needs and behaviors, allowing for adjustments in custody levels when warranted. This review ensures that changes in an inmate’s situation, such as improved behavior or new health concerns, can lead to appropriate modifications in their housing and custody assignments.
Unit assignment factors are pivotal in determining where inmates will reside, considering their behavior, program participation, and overall risk assessments. Movement between classifications is carefully managed, with inmates demonstrating positive changes or compliance, possibly transitioning to less restrictive environments. Conversely, those exhibiting problematic behavior may face reassignment to higher security units to preserve safety within the facility.
Housing restrictions and requirements also play a crucial role; for example, inmates in higher security classifications might have limited access to communal areas and programs, emphasizing the balance between security needs and rehabilitation opportunities.
The entire process remains fluid, allowing for adjustments based on ongoing evaluations and the dynamic nature of inmate behavior. These measures ensure that the Coosa County Jail maintains its commitment to inmate safety and facility security while fostering an environment conducive to rehabilitation and personal growth.
Safety Protocols & Security Operations
Daily security protocols at Coosa County Jail are meticulously orchestrated to uphold the safety of inmates, staff, and visitors. Staff members conduct systematic checks every 30 minutes, ensuring no unauthorized individuals access restricted areas. To prevent contraband, which refers to illegal items or substances prohibited within the facility, security personnel utilize advanced detection methods, including walk-through metal detectors and handheld scanners.
During intake, officers thoroughly search all incoming inmates and their belongings, employing visual inspections and physical searches to mitigate the risk of concealed items. The facility communicates directly with Sheldon Hutcherson, the director overseeing emergency management protocols across the county.
Emergency response procedures remain firmly established, allowing for swift action during crises. Each staff member is trained to respond effectively, utilizing a command system that coordinates with Coosa County Emergency Management. In the event of a disturbance, the facility can implement lockdown protocols, restricting movement and ensuring all areas are secure until the situation stabilizes. Regular drills simulate various emergency scenarios, reinforcing staff readiness and enhancing facility safety.
Count procedures, crucial for maintaining accurate inmate accountability, occur multiple times throughout the day. Officers conduct headcounts at scheduled intervals, meticulously matching physical counts against the official roster. Any discrepancies trigger an immediate investigation, ensuring that all movements within the facility are tracked and documented.
Movement control measures further enhance security; inmates are escorted by staff during transfers between areas, with specific pathways designated to minimize risks.
Search procedures complement these measures by routinely examining inmate living quarters and common areas for contraband. Officers deploy systematic searches using manual and technological methods, such as surveillance cameras, to monitor high-traffic zones.
Control center operations serve as the nerve center for security activities, where personnel monitor live feeds from cameras throughout the facility. This centralized observation allows for rapid response to suspicious behavior or incidents, strengthening security posture.
Incident reporting and response mechanisms are integral to maintaining order. Staff document all incidents in real time, detailing actions taken and outcomes achieved. This comprehensive record-keeping assists in immediate response and contributes to long-term security assessments and policy adjustments.
Security equipment, including body cameras and two-way radios, plays a pivotal role in documentation and communication, ensuring that all interactions are captured for review and training. The strategic integration of these elements fosters a secure environment where safety remains paramount.
Coosa County Jail Inmate Support Services & Development Programs
Coosa County Jail maintains a comprehensive system of inmate support services and development programs to facilitate rehabilitation and successful reintegration into society.
The facility’s core programs include substance abuse treatment, educational opportunities leading to a High School Equivalency Diploma, and vocational training in office skills, carpentry, and construction.
Through structured life skills courses and therapeutic counseling sessions, inmates receive crucial training in time management, conflict resolution, and personal development while addressing psychological challenges that may impede their recovery process.
Basic Inmate Services
Inmates at Coosa County Jail receive comprehensive medical services, ensuring access to healthcare that includes routine check-ups and emergency care. Medical professionals evaluate health concerns, providing necessary treatments and medications. Regular monitoring is mandated for those with chronic conditions to maintain stable health.
Mental health services also play a critical role, offering counseling and therapy sessions to address psychological well-being. Licensed therapists conduct individual and group sessions, focusing on coping strategies and behavioral health improvements, which are vital for emotional stability during incarceration.
The facility prioritizes nutrition through meal service, providing balanced and nutritious meals tailored to dietary restrictions. Inmates receive three meals a day, with considerations for religious nutritional laws and specific health needs. For instance, vegetarian options are available for those who do not consume meat, ensuring that all inmates have access to food that meets their personal and cultural requirements.
Hygiene and laundry services maintain cleanliness and personal care, with inmates provided with personal hygiene products and regular access to laundry facilities. Inmates can wash their clothing weekly, ensuring clean garments and contributing to their comfort and dignity.
Commissary operations allow inmates to purchase personal items and snacks using funds from their accounts. Inmates can access the commissary weekly, choosing from items that include hygiene products, snacks, and stationery, fostering a sense of autonomy and normalcy within the facility.
Religious services are available to inmates and are conducted by chaplains who provide spiritual guidance and support. Regular worship services, Bible studies, and one-on-one counseling are offered, allowing inmates to engage in their faith and find solace during their time in jail.
Access to recreational activities is provided, allowing inmates to engage in sports and exercise. The facility features an outdoor recreation yard where inmates can participate in physical activities for a set period each day, promoting physical health and reducing stress.
Library services enhance educational opportunities, offering a range of books and resources. Inmates can request materials and engage in reading or studying, which supports personal growth and development. The library is stocked with various genres, including fiction, non-fiction, and legal resources, ensuring inmates have avenues for learning and self-improvement during incarceration.
Education & Recovery Programs
Coosa County Jail implements a robust suite of educational programs designed to equip inmates with the knowledge necessary for successful reintegration into society. Inmates actively engage in High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) preparation, enabling them to achieve educational milestones that significantly enhance their employability.
Vocational training opportunities abound, with hands-on courses in carpentry and office skills, empowering individuals to build practical expertise that translates directly into job readiness. By fostering these educational pursuits, the facility instills a sense of accomplishment and lays the groundwork for improved prospects.
The jail prioritizes substance abuse treatment programs in tandem with academic and vocational training. These structured initiatives incorporate regular counseling and group therapy sessions, addressing the complexities of addiction while providing inmates with essential coping mechanisms for stress and emotional challenges.
By prioritizing these therapeutic interventions, the facility fosters an environment conducive to recovery, allowing inmates to confront their issues directly and develop healthier habits. The comprehensive approach ensures that inmates leave with a solid understanding of their addiction and the tools needed to maintain sobriety post-release.
Behavioral programs further enhance rehabilitation, focusing on life skills training crucial for navigating everyday challenges. Inmates participate in time management and conflict resolution courses, cultivating essential interpersonal skills that reduce recidivism rates.
This training prepares inmates for the work environment and personal relationships, creating a balanced foundation for reintegration into community life. The facility’s emphasis on behavioral development complements vocational endeavors, ensuring a holistic approach to rehabilitation.
Work programs allow inmates to apply their newly acquired skills in practical settings. Engaging in meaningful work fosters a sense of responsibility and enhances employability upon release.
Participants in these programs often report increased confidence and a greater sense of purpose, contributing significantly to successful reintegration. Eligibility for these work programs typically hinges on good behavior and active participation in educational and therapeutic initiatives, ensuring that those committed to rehabilitation can prove their capabilities.
Completing these programs requires meeting specific benchmarks, such as passing assessments for the HSED, demonstrating proficiency in vocational skills, and actively participating in therapy sessions. Inmates must also adhere to program guidelines and commit to personal growth throughout their time in the facility.
Communication & Visitation Guidelines
Coosa County Jail offers structured visitation opportunities, emphasizing that visits are a privilege, not a right. Each Saturday, inmates may receive visitors based on a schedule organized by cellblock, with designated time slots running from 7 AM to 3 PM. Inmates must complete a one-week post-incarceration period before anyone can visit, and they must submit a visitor list for approval.
To gain entry, all visitors must present valid photo identification and undergo a security screening process, ensuring a safe environment for inmates and visitors. Visitors must adhere to specific conduct requirements, including a conservative dress code prohibiting revealing or inappropriate attire. Items deemed contraband, such as weapons or drugs, are strictly forbidden, and any conduct violations can lead to immediate termination of the visit.
Visits are limited to 15 minutes, and each inmate may host a maximum of two visitors per week. When children accompany visitors, those under 16 must be supervised by an adult, while children under 10 require special arrangements to ensure safety and compliance with facility policies. For individuals with prior felony convictions or those currently awaiting trial, visitation is strictly prohibited, maintaining the integrity of the correctional environment.
Mail procedures also play a crucial role in communication at Coosa County Jail. Inmates can receive letters and packages, but all incoming mail must be inspected for contraband and comply with specific guidelines, including the prohibition of certain items.
Similarly, the jail provides access to a telephone system, allowing inmates to make outgoing calls. However, these calls are monitored and must be made collect or through prepaid accounts, ensuring that communication remains secure and orderly.
For those seeking alternative methods of communication, electronic communication options may be available, depending on the facility’s policies. Inmates may access secure messaging systems for digital correspondence with approved visitors. These options offer a modern twist to traditional communication, enhancing connectivity while adhering to the facility’s strict regulations.
Inmate Legal Resources & Protected Rights
Coosa County Jail safeguards the fundamental legal rights of its inmates, ensuring that each individual has access to essential legal resources. Inmates have the right to file grievances regarding any issues they encounter during incarceration. This process allows them to formally raise concerns or complaints about conditions or treatment, with the facility maintaining a structured grievance procedure that includes timely responses and resolutions.
Inmates can also access legal resources, including meeting with attorneys, who can visit during designated hours. These visits enable inmates to discuss their cases, seek legal advice, and prepare for court appearances, which are carefully coordinated by the jail to ensure compliance with judicial schedules.
Inmates can prepare for court appearances effectively, as the jail provides necessary transportation to and from the courthouse. This allows inmates to fulfill their legal obligations while ensuring their rights are upheld throughout the judicial process. Access to a law library within the facility further empowers inmates to conduct legal research, review case law, and prepare legal documents independently.
The law library contains various resources, including legal textbooks, reference materials, and forms, which support inmates in understanding their rights and navigating the legal system. Additionally, the jail informs inmates about bail bond processes, enabling them to understand the options for securing their release before trial.
Inmates can receive detailed information regarding the bail amounts set by the court and the procedures for working with bail bondsmen. This transparency helps them make informed decisions about their legal circumstances and potential release options. Coosa County Jail effectively supports its incarcerated population’s legal rights and needs by integrating these critical components—grievance procedures, legal resource access, court appearance logistics, attorney visits, law library facilities, and bail bond information.
Coosa County Public Defender & District Attorney
There isn’t any dedicated Public Defender’s Office in Coosa County, Alabama. Instead, indigent defense services are provided by court-appointed private attorneys. Suppose you require legal representation and cannot afford an attorney. In that case, you should contact the Coosa County Circuit Clerk’s Office to inquire about the process for obtaining a court-appointed attorney.
Coosa County Circuit Clerk’s Office:
9709 US Hwy 231
P.O. Box 98
Rockford, AL 35136
Phone: 256-377-4988
This office diligently assigns court-appointed attorneys to indigent defendants who cannot afford private legal counsel based on a thorough financial eligibility assessment. By ensuring that these defendants receive competent representation, the office upholds the fundamental constitutional right to legal counsel, even amidst significant caseloads that challenge the resources of public defenders.
Simultaneously, the District Attorney’s Office, led by Jeffrey Alan Willis, operates from Ashland, AL 36251, with a contact number of (256) 354-3578. This office is responsible for prosecuting various criminal cases, including felonies, misdemeanors, and juvenile offenses, throughout Coosa County.
The District Attorney coordinates closely with law enforcement agencies, enforcing state criminal laws and maintaining jurisdiction over all criminal proceedings within the county’s boundaries. By serving six-year terms, the District Attorney plays a pivotal role in the criminal justice system, ensuring that justice is served while balancing the rights of victims and defendants.
Through their collaborative efforts, the Public Defender’s Office and the District Attorney’s Office contribute to a comprehensive legal framework that addresses both the defense and prosecution of criminal cases, thus fostering a fair and just legal environment in Coosa County.
Release & Community Preparation
The release planning process at Coosa County Jail emphasizes a structured approach to ensure inmates are well-prepared for reintegration into society. Upon nearing release, individuals actively engage in program completion requirements tailored to enhance their skills and address underlying issues. For instance, inmates participating in substance abuse treatment must fulfill specific attendance and participation criteria to complete the program, which significantly lowers the risk of recidivism.
Additionally, educational courses designed for completion of the High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) require individuals to pass standardized assessments, equipping them with essential academic credentials.
Community resource connections play a vital role in the transition process. The facility collaborates with local organizations and the State Board of Probation and Parole, facilitating access to a wide array of resources that support successful reintegration. These connections encompass various community services, such as housing assistance programs that help individuals secure stable living environments upon release.
Moreover, inmates benefit from employment assistance programs that provide job readiness training, resume workshops, and direct links to local employers willing to hire individuals with criminal backgrounds.
Post-release services extend beyond initial support. Continued treatment options, including ongoing counseling and substance abuse programs, ensure that individuals maintain their progress and address any challenges they may face after release.
Family reunification support emerges as a critical component, as individuals are encouraged to reconnect with family members, which often serves as a motivational factor for successful reintegration. This holistic approach fosters a sense of belonging and helps repair relationships that may have been strained during incarceration.
Utilizing a comprehensive framework, Coosa County Jail’s release initiatives facilitate a smoother transition for inmates, ultimately aiming to reduce recidivism rates and promote long-term stability in the community. Through structured programs, community resource connections, and ongoing support, individuals are equipped with the necessary tools to successfully navigate the complexities of reintegration.
Coosa County Jail Performance Metrics & Compliance Reports
The Coosa County Jail demonstrates robust operational standards through meticulous population management, handling an average daily count of 33 inmates, which translates to 4 per 1,000 residents. This effective management underscores the facility’s ability to maintain order while ensuring safety and security.
Compliance monitoring plays a pivotal role, with the Department of Examiners of Public Accounts conducting regular assessments of the jail’s operations from September 2018 to February 2024. These evaluations help ensure adherence to state regulations, providing oversight on various operational aspects.
Incident statistics reveal that of the 1,700 arrests recorded, a substantial 69% pertain to low-level, non-violent offenses, demonstrating a focus on maintaining community safety while addressing minor infractions. This data enables the jail to analyze trends in criminal behavior and adjust its approach to inmate management accordingly.
Furthermore, the jail’s budget allocation of $754,000, which equates to $81 per resident, reflects a strategic investment in law enforcement resources. The facility employs a dedicated force of 10 officers, equating to 10.8 officers per 10,000 residents, ensuring adequate staffing levels are maintained to manage the inmate population effectively.
In conjunction with operational standards and budgetary considerations, staff training remains critical to the jail’s success. Officers receive ongoing training to enhance their skills in de-escalation techniques and crisis management, ensuring they are prepared to handle various situations that may arise. This focus on professional development not only aids in operational efficiency but also contributes to the overall well-being of both staff and inmates.
The comprehensive financial management executed by the Sheriff’s office encompasses various essential expenditures, including costs related to inmate feeding, gear acquisitions, and jail store vendor agreements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Items Can I Send in a Care Package to Inmates?
Approved care package items include snacks, hygiene products, clothing, electronics, and miscellaneous items like books and games. All items must be ordered through contracted companies, not delivered personally.
Is There a Medical Copay for Inmate Healthcare Services?
While many jails charge medical copays for inmate healthcare services, specific copay information for Coosa County Jail is not publicly available. Contact the facility directly for current policy details.
How Do I Add Money to an Inmate’s Commissary Account?
You can deposit money through the Kimble Kiosk in the jail lobby, make online deposits at kimblesinmatedirect.com, or mail a money order with the inmate’s name and ID number.
What Happens to an Inmate’s Personal Property During Incarceration?
Personal property is inventoried and stored upon booking, with a 30-day storage limit. Items must be claimed by authorized individuals with photo ID or will be donated to charity.
Can Inmates Receive Magazines or Newspapers Through the Mail?
Based on available information, magazines, and newspapers are not explicitly permitted. The jail’s mail policy only specifically allows letters, postcards, and plain greeting cards. Contact the facility for clarification.