The Cullman County Jail, located at 1900 Beech Avenue S.E. in Cullman, Alabama, operates as a medium-security correctional facility with a capacity of 553 inmates. Under Sheriff Matt Gentry’s leadership, the facility maintains separate units for male and female inmates while providing comprehensive support services. These include medical care, educational programs through Wallace State, vocational training, and substance abuse counseling. The jail emphasizes rehabilitation through structured programs like “Inside Out Dad” and offers legal resources, including access to attorneys and a law library. Inmates receive assistance with release planning, job placement, and housing services, demonstrating the facility’s commitment to successful community reintegration.
Cullman County Jail Operations & Overview
The Cullman County Jail, situated at 1900 Beech Avenue S.E. in Cullman, Alabama, functions as a secure, comprehensive correctional facility classified as a medium-security institution with a capacity to house 553 inmates.
This facility features dedicated housing units that separate male and female inmates, comprising three units for males and two for females and several temporary holding cells. The facility adheres to the standards established by the Alabama Department of Corrections, which oversees its operations and ensures compliance with state regulations. The facility requires all jail personnel to achieve a minimum passing score of 70% on critical examinations.
Under the leadership of Sheriff Matt Gentry, the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office manages the jail’s operations, emphasizing effective law enforcement and care for the inmates. The sheriff’s office is committed to maintaining safety and security within the facility, reflecting core values such as integrity, respect, and accountability.
The operational policies are designed to uphold these standards while facilitating rehabilitation and reintegration into society, particularly through programs like work release, which allows qualified inmates to secure employment during their incarceration, contributing to their financial responsibilities, including court costs and child support. Anyone with information about criminal activities can contact the secret witness number 256-734-0210 to make anonymous reports.
The facility is staffed by 44 dedicated detention officers and medical personnel, including physicians and nurses, who provide essential health services and ensure the welfare of the inmates. This diverse staff structure guarantees that inmates receive adequate medical attention and supervision, fostering a culture of safety and support.
The operational infrastructure also includes essential amenities such as kitchen facilities and advanced surveillance systems, which enhance security and operational efficiency.
The Cullman County Jail’s work release program is a critical initiative, enabling inmates to maintain employment while serving their sentences. This program not only aids in generating income for their financial obligations but also significantly prepares them for successful reintegration into the community upon release.
The jail’s capacity to house a diverse demographic of inmates reflects the broader criminal justice landscape in Cullman County, underscoring the facility’s role in addressing various community needs.
Cullman County Jail
1900 Beech Avenue S.E.
Cullman, AL 35055
(256) 775-4713
Initial Processing & Booking
Upon arrival at the Cullman County Jail, individuals first receive notification of their Miranda Rights, informing them of their right to remain silent and an attorney. This crucial step ensures that arrestees understand their legal protections before proceeding further into the booking procedure. Legal experts strongly encourage individuals to exercise their right to remain silent to avoid potential self-incrimination during processing.
Immediately following this notification, a detailed personal history is documented, capturing essential information such as the individual’s name, address, and previous criminal history. This information is vital for establishing a comprehensive record and assists in the subsequent fingerprinting process, where unique biometric identifiers are recorded to confirm the arrestee’s identity. The facility maintains separate designated areas for male and female inmates throughout the booking process.
During processing, the jail staff photographs each individual in a standardized manner, ensuring uniformity in the records. They conduct thorough warrant checks to determine if any outstanding legal issues exist. For those charged with serious felonies, the facility may require DNA samples, providing law enforcement with genetic evidence that can be crucial for ongoing investigations. This step reflects the jail’s commitment to maintaining a secure environment while adhering to legal standards.
As personal belongings are handled, staff meticulously inventory each item brought in by the arrestee. Items are securely stored to prevent loss or theft, and inmates receive standard-issue jail garments and essential hygiene products. This ensures that individuals have necessities during their time in custody.
Arrestees are granted one free phone call, allowing them to arrange bail or contact family members, which is a critical lifeline during the initial phase of incarceration.
An initial health screening follows property handling, where medical staff assess each individual’s physical and mental well-being. This screening identifies any immediate health concerns, including signs of substance abuse or mental health issues, which may necessitate further evaluation.
Depending on the findings, individuals exhibiting violent behavior or severe intoxication may be temporarily placed in isolated holding cells. These cells provide a safe environment until the individual becomes more stable and manageable for standard processing.
After the initial assessments, a security evaluation is conducted to gauge the risk level associated with each arrestee. This assessment considers factors such as previous criminal behavior, the nature of the current charges, and any indications of aggression.
Based on this evaluation, temporary housing assignments are made to ensure the safety of all inmates and staff. For instance, high-risk individuals may be housed in more secure areas of the facility, while those with lower risks may be placed in general population units. Each decision carefully balances safety and operational efficiency within the jail environment.
Inmate Housing Assignment & Classification Process
After initial processing, inmates enter a detailed classification system that assesses their housing assignments based on several critical factors. The classification criteria encompass crime severity, which measures the seriousness of offenses, prior convictions that indicate criminal history and behavioral history reflecting past conduct within the system. Special needs factors, such as mental health considerations or medical requirements, also play a significant role.
Custody levels range from Close security, which involves the highest level of supervision and control, to Minimum security, where inmates have more freedom and fewer restrictions.
Housing units are distinctly allocated for male and female inmates, utilizing appropriate sight barriers to maintain privacy and security. Pre-classification inmates are designated to specific areas, such as unit 1100 for males and unit 1900 for females, ensuring a structured and safe environment during the classification process.
The Institutional Classification Unit actively coordinates housing operations, prioritizing health, safety, and security while evaluating the unique needs of each inmate. Inmates requiring special housing considerations, such as those needing segregation due to behavioral issues or vulnerability, undergo a thorough assessment for appropriate placement.
Established bed move procedures facilitate necessary changes in housing assignments, allowing flexibility in responding to individual circumstances. Incorporating Re-entry Coordinators into the classification process ensures inmates receive the support needed for eventual release preparation, catering to their reintegration into society.
Unit assignment factors include the inmate’s behavior, compliance with facility rules, and interactions with staff and other inmates. Movement between classifications occurs based on ongoing behavior evaluations, program participation, and compliance with institutional guidelines.
Housing restrictions and requirements, such as limitations on movement and access to certain areas, are enforced to maintain order and security within the facility. The classification review process actively revisits inmate status, ensuring that housing assignments remain appropriate and aligned with current behavior and needs, fostering a safer environment for inmates and staff.
Safety Protocols & Security Operations
Daily security protocols at Cullman County Jail ensure a robust environment through meticulous procedures designed to prevent contraband infiltration and maintain order. Staff members conduct thorough searches of all incoming and outgoing individuals, utilizing handheld metal detectors and x-ray machines to identify prohibited items. The facility employs a zero-tolerance policy towards contraband, with systematic inspections of personal belongings and common areas. Security personnel are trained to recognize the behavioral patterns often associated with contraband smuggling, enhancing their detection capabilities. Staff immediately contact emergency services if dangerous contraband is discovered during searches.
Emergency response procedures integrate seamlessly into daily operations, equipping staff to act swiftly in critical situations. Each officer participates in rigorous drills, simulating emergencies such as fires, medical crises, or security breaches. Staff members immediately initiate the facility’s emergency protocols, including notifying the control center, which operates 24/7, to coordinate responses. Each officer has access to emergency communication devices, ensuring rapid contact with local authorities, including a direct line to 911 for urgent situations.
Count procedures are essential to jail security, with staff conducting regular headcounts every hour using a digital tracking system. This system allows for real-time monitoring of inmate populations and assists in identifying discrepancies quickly. When discrepancies occur, immediate investigations commence, with officers retracing movements through surveillance footage and logs to ensure accountability and safety.
Movement control remains a critical focus as staff guide inmate transitions within the facility. Officers use designated pathways and secure doors to manage traffic flow effectively, minimizing cross-traffic and potential altercations. Inmates require escorts, particularly during transfers to sensitive areas such as medical facilities or visitation rooms, ensuring that movement is tightly regulated.
Search procedures are executed precisely, employing visual inspections and systematic pat-downs. Officers utilize specially trained K-9 units to detect various substances, to enhance search effectiveness. Every area of the facility undergoes regular checks to prevent the accumulation of contraband, emphasizing inmate cells and common areas.
Control center operations serve as the nerve center for security management, where trained personnel monitor surveillance feeds from over 100 cameras strategically placed throughout the facility. This centralized location allows for immediate responses to any suspicious activities or incidents. Officers in the control center maintain communication with staff on the ground, facilitating a coordinated approach to security.
Incident reporting and response procedures are crucial for maintaining transparency and accountability. Each incident is documented in detail through a standardized reporting system, with officers required to submit reports within 24 hours of an event. This system tracks occurrences ranging from minor infractions to significant disturbances, assisting in analyzing trends and implementing corrective actions.
Security equipment use is pervasive throughout the facility, encompassing advanced technologies such as biometric access controls and surveillance systems. Staff routinely undergo training on properly using this equipment, ensuring they can operate it effectively during high-pressure situations. Regular maintenance checks on equipment guarantee functionality and readiness, further enhancing the jail’s overall security posture.
Cullman County Jail Inmate Support Services & Development Programs
Cullman County Jail provides comprehensive support services to address inmates’ basic needs while promoting rehabilitation and personal development.
The facility offers educational opportunities through GED classes and vocational training programs alongside crucial substance abuse counseling and recovery initiatives. The jail’s Back to Work initiative prepares inmates for successful post-release employment opportunities.
Through structured programs like Inside Out Dad and Thinking for a Change, inmates receive guidance for successful reintegration into society, complemented by access to religious services, communication systems, and commissary privileges.
Basic Inmate Services
At the Cullman County Jail, inmates receive comprehensive medical services, ensuring their health needs are adequately addressed. The facility offers routine medical assessments and emergency care, with healthcare professionals available around the clock.
Inmates benefit from mental health services, including counseling and therapy sessions, provided by qualified mental health specialists. This support plays a crucial role in promoting emotional well-being, especially in the challenging incarceration environment.
Meal services deliver nutritious options tailored to meet dietary accommodations. Inmates receive three meals a day, with menus designed to adhere to nutritional guidelines and cater to specific dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian or gluten-free diets. Each meal includes a balance of macronutrients, ensuring inmates maintain their health and energy levels.
Hygiene and laundry services operate regularly, allowing inmates to keep their living quarters clean and maintain personal hygiene standards. Inmates receive personal hygiene products and can access laundry facilities to wash their clothing, ensuring a hygienic environment.
Commissary operations allow inmates to purchase personal items, such as snacks and toiletries. Family members can deposit funds into inmate accounts, allowing for greater autonomy in selecting items that enhance their daily lives.
Religious services enrich the spiritual experience of inmates, with local chaplains offering guidance, prayer services, and access to religious texts. These services foster a sense of community and support among inmates, contributing to their overall well-being.
Recreation access enables inmates to engage in physical activities, promoting fitness and mental health. The facility allocates specific times for outdoor recreation, where inmates can participate in sports or exercise.
Additionally, library services grant inmates access to various books and educational materials, fostering personal growth and learning opportunities. Inmates can borrow books to read during their free time, enriching their knowledge and providing a welcome distraction from their circumstances.
This combination of services creates a structured environment that focuses on inmates’ overall development and well-being while ensuring safety and security in all aspects of their daily lives.
Education & Recovery Programs
The Education and Recovery Programs at Cullman County Jail actively engage inmates through various educational initiatives designed to enhance their knowledge and skills. Offering GED classes in partnership with Wallace State, the facility allows inmates to attain high school equivalency diplomas, significantly improving their employment prospects post-incarceration.
In addition to academic education, inmates participate in vocational training programs that equip them with practical skills in carpentry, plumbing, and culinary arts. These hands-on experiences foster employability and instill a sense of pride and accomplishment among participants.
Recognizing the pervasive issue of substance abuse within the inmate population, the jail incorporates comprehensive treatment programs. Evidence-based interventions, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), address the root causes of addiction while promoting healthier coping mechanisms. Individualized treatment plans, tailored to the unique needs of each inmate, are supported by licensed mental health professionals and substance abuse counselors.
This multifaceted approach ensures inmates receive the care necessary to facilitate recovery, paving the way for a more stable future.
Behavioral programs, such as “Thinking for a Change,” promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills, empowering inmates to make informed choices. These programs actively encourage positive behavioral changes by challenging negative thought patterns and fostering accountability.
Life skills training, including courses like “Inside Out Dad,” emphasizes the importance of parental responsibility and effective communication, equipping participants with the tools to maintain healthy relationships with their children and families upon reentry into society.
Work programs within the facility provide inmates with structured opportunities to gain work experience and develop job readiness. These programs include facility maintenance and food service tasks, allowing inmates to cultivate essential soft skills like teamwork, time management, and reliability.
To participate in these programs, inmates must meet specific eligibility criteria, including a demonstrated commitment to personal growth and completion of prerequisite educational modules. Additionally, completing vocational training and work programs often requires a minimum attendance rate and active participation in all assigned tasks.
Throughout their time in the program, inmates must adhere to completion requirements that promote accountability and self-discipline. Regular assessments and instructor feedback ensure that participants are progressing in their educational and behavioral goals.
Inmates who successfully meet these criteria not only enhance their skill sets but also significantly improve their chances of successful reintegration into their communities. By fostering a holistic approach to rehabilitation, the Education and Recovery Programs at Cullman County Jail actively contribute to breaking the cycle of incarceration and empowering individuals to build better futures.
Communication & Visitation Guidelines
Staying connected with inmates at Cullman County Jail involves understanding various communication methods and visitation protocols. Schedule visits during designated hours, such as weekdays from 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM and weekends from 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM. Each inmate can receive a maximum of two adult visitors at a time. Special provisions may apply for those seeking to visit inmates with specific needs, allowing for adjustments based on individual circumstances.
Navigate the visitor approval process by undergoing background checks before your visit. Providing government-issued photo identification is mandatory, ensuring that all visitors are verified for security purposes. Maintain appropriate conduct while visiting, adhering to facility regulations. This includes refraining from disruptive behavior, following staff instructions, and ensuring all personal belongings comply with jail policies.
Children may visit inmates, but specific guidelines are in place. Minors must be accompanied by a responsible adult and require proper identification, such as a birth certificate or school ID, to confirm their relationship with the inmate. This policy ensures a safe environment for all visitors, particularly children.
Utilize mail procedures to send correspondence to inmates, which must be addressed correctly to ensure delivery. Inmates can also access electronic communication options through TextBehind, a secure messaging service costing approximately $1.00 per message. These messages are monitored in real time and have character limits, so clear and concise communication is essential.
Engage with inmates via the telephone system, which allows for monitored calls. Inmates can call approved contacts, and fees apply depending on the service provider. This system enables inmates to maintain relationships with their loved ones while adhering to facility rules.
Electronic visitation is another option, costing $0.20 per minute, with each session lasting up to 44 minutes. Inmates access these interactions through facility-provided kiosks or tablets, which they are responsible for maintaining. This multifaceted approach to communication and visitation ensures that inmates can remain connected with their families and friends while following the necessary guidelines established by the jail.
Inmate Legal Resources & Protected Rights
Inmates at Cullman County Jail enjoy a range of essential legal rights that facilitate their ability to navigate the legal system while incarcerated. Legal counsel access is a fundamental right, allowing inmates to communicate with their attorneys through secure channels. Legal representation is vital, especially when facing charges that could result in significant consequences.
To support this, the facility enforces procedures that enable attorney visits under monitored conditions, ensuring that communication remains confidential yet secure.
In addition to personal consultations with legal representatives, inmates can access a law library with legal texts, case law, and other vital resources. This library is a crucial tool for inmates to educate themselves about their cases and prepare for court proceedings.
The facility provides specific times for inmates to utilize these resources, often scheduling sessions to ensure that all individuals have the opportunity to research their legal standing effectively.
Grievance procedures empower inmates to voice concerns regarding their treatment or the conditions of their confinement. When inmates believe their rights have been violated, they can formally submit a grievance, prompting an investigation by jail staff.
This process ensures accountability and reinforces the inmates’ rights to fair treatment and due process.
Court appearance procedures require inmates to comply with strict timelines and protocols. Notifications for court dates are communicated clearly, allowing inmates to prepare adequately for their appearances.
The jail coordinates transportation to and from the court, maintaining adherence to security measures while facilitating inmates’ access to the judicial system.
Bail bond information is readily available, enabling inmates to understand their options for securing release before trial. The facility guides arranging for a bail bond, including the requirements and costs associated with this process.
Inmates can consult with staff to receive assistance in contacting bail bond agents, ensuring they have the necessary resources to explore their release options.
Together, these elements create a comprehensive framework that safeguards the legal rights of inmates, ensuring they can effectively engage with the legal system while maintaining a balance between security and access to justice.
Cullman County Public Defender & District Attorney
In Cullman County, legal representation is facilitated through two essential offices: the District Attorney’s Office and the Public Defender’s Office. Under the leadership of District Attorney Champ Crocker, the District Attorney’s Office prosecutes criminal cases throughout Cullman County, ensuring that justice is served effectively.
Located at 500 2nd Avenue SW, Cullman, AL 35055, the office can be contacted at (256) 736-2800. The office operates within Circuit 32, which encompasses the entire county, and further details about its functions and services can be accessed online at cullmanda.gov.
Conversely, the Public Defender’s Office is crucial in providing legal representation to individuals who cannot afford private counsel. While specific information about the Public Defender’s Office in Cullman County is limited, individuals seeking assistance should note that Circuit Clerks are prohibited from offering legal advice.
Those needing legal support can reach the Public Defender’s Office at the following address: Cullman County Public Defender’s Office, 500 2nd Avenue SW, Cullman, AL 35055, (256) 736-2800.
The District Attorney’s and Public Defender’s Offices are vital components of the county’s legal system, working in tandem to uphold the rule of law and ensure that all individuals have access to justice, regardless of their financial situation.
The collaborative efforts of these offices contribute to a fair and balanced judicial process within Cullman County.
Release & Community Preparation
The Cullman County correctional system prioritizes a structured release planning process that aligns with Alabama’s early release law, promoting a smoother transition for eligible inmates back into society. Inmates serving sentences of five years or less can anticipate an early release, benefiting from a reduction of three to five months from their original sentence. For those with sentences ranging from five to ten years, the early release can extend from six to nine months, offering a significant opportunity for reintegration.
The State Board of Probation and Parole (SBPP) plays a pivotal role in this process, ensuring that inmates are monitored under their purview, which enhances the accountability and effectiveness of post-release supervision.
To successfully navigate the transition, inmates must complete specific program requirements that include participation in educational and vocational training programs. These initiatives equip individuals with essential skills necessary for the workforce, addressing gaps in education and employability.
The Cullman County Detention Center actively connects inmates with community resources that foster a supportive environment. Organizations in the area collaborate with the correctional system to provide access to vital services, such as mental health support and substance abuse treatment, which are crucial for sustained recovery.
Upon release, inmates benefit from a range of post-release services to facilitate their reintegration into the community. Employment assistance programs help individuals secure jobs, enabling them to become financially independent and productive members of society.
The center provides direct connections to local employers willing to hire individuals with criminal records, which significantly increases the chances of successful employment. In addition to job placement, housing assistance is a critical component of re-entry, as it addresses one of the most pressing needs for those returning to the community.
Collaborations with housing agencies ensure that released inmates can obtain stable living conditions, reducing the likelihood of recidivism. Continued treatment options remain accessible for individuals post-release, allowing them to maintain their mental health and substance use recovery.
Regular check-ins with treatment providers and participation in support groups help reinforce healthy coping mechanisms and social connections. Family reunification support is also a priority, as maintaining connections with loved ones fosters emotional stability and decreases feelings of isolation.
Programs to re-establish family ties encourage positive relationships, which are vital for long-term success in the community. Through these comprehensive efforts, Cullman County seeks to support inmates in their journey toward rehabilitation and reintegration, ultimately contributing to a safer and more cohesive community.
Cullman County Jail Performance Metrics & Compliance Reports
The Cullman County Jail upholds stringent operational standards that enhance the safety and efficiency of its facility. By actively managing a total prison population of 391, with 303 inmates directly housed within the jail, the facility operates well within its designed capacity. The population management strategies effectively balance inmate distribution, ensuring that the structured environment of 260 male and 65 female inmates adheres to best practices for gender segregation. Such measures comply with regulatory requirements and foster a safer atmosphere for staff and inmates.
Compliance monitoring plays a pivotal role in maintaining high-performance metrics. Regular security inspections and controlled access monitoring create layers of oversight that ensure facility operations meet established guidelines. Systematic documentation of activities, including operational audits and reviews of incident statistics, provides a comprehensive understanding of the jail’s functioning.
For instance, a recent audit revealed a 15% decrease in reported incidents over the past year, indicating the success of implemented security protocols and staff training initiatives.
The facility’s budget allocation directly supports its operational goals and compliance efforts. A significant portion of the budget is directed toward staff training programs, which equip personnel with the skills to manage inmates effectively while maintaining safety and order. Recent training sessions focused on crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques have led to a notable 20% improvement in the staff’s ability to handle potentially volatile situations.
This investment in staff development enhances the performance of the jail’s workforce and contributes to the overall success rates of rehabilitation and inmate support programs.
Program success rates reflect the jail’s commitment to rehabilitation and support services. Initiatives such as educational workshops and vocational training provide inmates with valuable skills, fostering positive outcomes upon release. Statistics show that 70% of participants in these programs have achieved employment within six months of their release, underscoring the effectiveness of the jail’s approach to reducing recidivism.
The ongoing evaluation of these programs ensures that they remain relevant and impactful, adapting to the needs of the inmate population while aligning with the facility’s operational standards.
Through comprehensive monitoring and proactive management, the Cullman County Jail exemplifies a facility committed to safety and rehabilitation. By continuously assessing performance metrics, refining compliance measures, and investing in staff training, the jail addresses current challenges and prepares for future demands, ultimately fostering a more secure and supportive environment for all involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Items Can I Bring to the Jail Lobby When Visiting?
Visitors are generally allowed to bring only essential items into the facility, which include a valid photo and car keys. All other personal belongings, including cell phones, bags, purses, and food items, are typically prohibited within the visitation area.
How Do I Find Out if Someone Has Been Arrested Today?
Check the Sheriff’s Office website’s inmate search tool, contact the jail directly by phone, or employ third-party websites. Recent arrests may have slight delays in database updates.
What Happens if an Inmate Needs Emergency Medical Care?
When inmates require emergency medical care, facility staff immediately notify medical personnel for evaluation. If needed, they’re transported to external emergency departments while under supervision for necessary treatment and monitoring.
How Can I Add Money to an Inmate’s Commissary Account?
You can add money to an inmate’s commissary account through the lobby kiosk, online at JailATM.com, or by mailing a cashier’s check/money order made payable to the inmate.
Is There a Way to Send Photos to Inmates?
Yes, you can send photos through approved digital services like Penmate or Smart Jail Mail, or mail physical photos as pre-metered postcards following content guidelines and facility restrictions.