The Dale County Jail, established in 1988 in Ozark, Alabama, operates as a medium-security facility with a 116-inmate capacity under Sheriff Mason B. Daugherty’s leadership. The facility provides comprehensive medical care, educational programs, and rehabilitation initiatives through structured classification systems and dedicated housing units. Crucial operations encompass full kitchen facilities, law library access, and communication services via Inmate Calling Solutions. Security measures include K-9 units, surveillance systems, and trained staff implementing established protocols. The jail maintains partnerships with community organizations for successful inmate reintegration, while performance metrics demonstrate ongoing improvements in facility management and program effectiveness. Additional investigation discloses extensive resources available to inmates and their families.
Dale County Jail Operations & Overview
The Dale County Jail, located at 124 Adams Street, Ozark, Alabama 36360, operates under the governance of the Dale County Sheriff’s Office, currently led by Sheriff Mason B. Daugherty. This correctional facility, classified as a medium-security institution, has been functioning since its establishment in 1988. The Alabama Department of Corrections oversees its operations, ensuring compliance with state regulations and standards for inmate care and facility management.
With a capacity to house 116 inmates, the jail features specialized housing arrangements to address the needs of various inmate populations. The facility was constructed after a devastating fire in 1988, necessitating the creation of a new, modern correctional institution. These include distinct cell blocks designed for safety and security, a high-risk inmate section equipped to handle individuals posing more significant security challenges, and a 12-bed female dormitory catering to female offenders.
The facility accommodates individuals awaiting trial, those serving misdemeanor sentences, and inmates under the supervision of Alabama Parole and Probation, thereby fulfilling a critical role in the local justice system. The jail’s K-9 unit Chief assists in maintaining security and conducting contraband searches throughout the facility.
Operational policies within the jail emphasize strict adherence to security protocols and inmate welfare. The facility enforces designated visitation hours each Sunday, categorizing them based on inmate classification to maintain order and safety.
Communication services are facilitated through an inmate telephone system provided by Inmate Calling Solutions, allowing inmates to maintain contact with loved ones via prepaid accounts and voicemail features. Additionally, the jail houses essential services such as a full kitchen for meal preparation, a booking room for processing new arrivals, and a law library to support inmates in their legal proceedings.
A dedicated staff structure supports the facility’s operations, with personnel trained to effectively manage a diverse inmate population. Each staff member plays a vital role in maintaining safety, security, and rehabilitation within the facility.
The Dale County Jail center’s core values are respect, integrity, and accountability, guiding interactions with inmates and the community. By prioritizing these standards, the jail aims to foster an environment conducive to rehabilitation while ensuring the safety of both staff and inmates.
Dale County Jail
124 Adams Street
Ozark, AL 36360
(334) 774-5402
Initial Processing & Booking
The booking procedure at Dale County Jail initiates with inmates stepping into a designated intake area, where correctional officers promptly begin the comprehensive processing. Each inmate undergoes meticulous personal identification, which includes capturing fingerprints and photographs. This phase establishes a unique identification number for each individual and ensures accurate records for future reference, enhancing the facility’s security and operational efficiency.
Upon completing identification, officers thoroughly search the inmate’s personal belongings, meticulously documenting each item. Property handling is critical to maintaining security within the facility; all personal items are securely stored until release. The medium security facility houses pre-trial and convicted adult male inmates with a maximum capacity of 98 individuals. Inmates then receive standard-issue uniforms and essential items, such as hygiene products, ensuring they are appropriately equipped for their stay. The facility processes roughly 1229 total inmates annually through its booking procedures. This careful inventory process mitigates the risk of contraband entering the facility while providing inmates with the necessary resources.
Initial health screenings follow the property handling, where medical staff conduct assessments to identify immediate health concerns. This screening typically includes checking vital signs, reviewing medical history, and providing essential health evaluations, which are crucial for the well-being of all inmates. Addressing health issues early on promotes safety and facilitates appropriate medical interventions if necessary.
Rights notification occurs simultaneously as inmates are informed of their rights and the facility’s policies. Officers present this information through clear documentation, requiring inmates to acknowledge their understanding by signing specific forms. This process emphasizes the facility’s commitment to transparency and ensures inmates know their entitlements within the jail system.
After the initial health screening and rights notification, correctional officers perform an initial security assessment to determine the appropriate housing assignment for each inmate. This assessment evaluates factors such as the nature of the charges, behavioral history, and potential safety risks. Through this careful evaluation, the facility can effectively categorize inmates, enhancing both security and the overall environment within the jail.
Finally, officers assign inmates to temporary housing units based on the outcomes of the initial assessments. Each housing unit is structured to accommodate inmates with similar classifications, which helps maintain order and security within the facility. Upon arrival at their assigned units, inmates receive detailed information about daily schedules, available services, and visitation protocols. This ensures they are well informed about the rules and resources during their stay at Dale County Jail.
Inmate Housing Assignment & Classification Process
Dale County Jail implements a comprehensive classification system to ensure inmates’ safety and the facility’s security. This system categorizes inmates into distinct custody levels by utilizing objective criteria such as past behavior, criminal history, and current charges. Maximum custody inmates, who present a higher risk, face stringent restrictions and are assigned to more secure housing units, while close custody inmates, posing a lesser threat, occupy units with moderate limits.
The classification process initiates with the Primary Classification Form No. 421, which guides staff through a decision tree that evaluates each inmate’s risk factors and determines their appropriate housing placement. Like university housing applications, inmates must complete a nonrefundable fee before processing their housing assignment.
Housing units vary significantly to cater to different classification levels, including maximum security units for high-risk inmates and general population units for those classified as close custody. Each unit features specific requirements that govern inmate behavior and movement. Inmates classified as close custody may interact with each other more freely, yet they remain under constant supervision. Conversely, maximum custody units enforce strict sight barriers and heightened security measures, limiting movement within the facility. When possessing reading materials, inmates must comply with the restriction of two paperback books in their housing units.
Special housing considerations accommodate those with unique needs, such as medical issues or vulnerability due to age or gender. Designated units provide support and safety, ensuring that these inmates receive appropriate care while maintaining the facility’s overall security. Regular assessments ensure that housing assignments align with inmates’ changing needs, with classification specialists monitoring these accommodations closely.
The facility conducts reviews for maximum custody inmates every seven days, while close custody inmate assessments occur every 30 days. These reviews allow for timely adjustments to housing assignments based on behavioral changes or new information. Unit assignment factors include inmates adjusting to their current environment, incident reports, and interaction with staff and peers. Such ongoing evaluations promote a responsive classification system that prioritizes safety within the facility.
Movement between classifications occurs when an inmate demonstrates significant behavioral changes or when new charges arise. For instance, inmates who exhibit compliant behavior over an extended period may qualify for a downgrade to close custody, allowing for increased privileges and access to less restrictive housing. Conversely, any violations of facility rules can prompt an elevation to maximum custody, reflecting a proactive approach to inmate management.
Housing restrictions and requirements are enforced consistently, with clear protocols dictating inmate behavior, interactions, and movement. Staff members actively monitor compliance, making adjustments as necessary to maintain a secure environment.
The facility’s commitment to structured housing assignments and classification processes underscores its dedication to inmate safety and institutional security.
Safety Protocols & Security Operations
Dale County Jail implements daily security protocols and procedures designed to uphold safety and order within the facility. Officers conduct systematic counts of inmates at regular intervals, ensuring accurate tracking of all individuals present. Each count occurs every hour, and discrepancies trigger immediate searches to locate missing inmates.
Control center operations are pivotal in monitoring movements throughout the facility, utilizing surveillance cameras and communication systems to detect unusual activity and coordinate rapid responses.
Preventing and detecting contraband forms a critical aspect of security operations. Staff routinely perform thorough searches of inmate living areas, shared spaces, and personal property to intercept prohibited items such as drugs or weapons. Using metal detectors and K-9 units enhances detection capabilities, allowing for more efficient identification of hidden contraband. These proactive measures significantly reduce the risk of violence and maintain a safe environment for both inmates and staff.
In emergencies, correctional staff follow established response procedures to manage incidents effectively. Training drills simulate various scenarios, from power outages to inmate disturbances, ensuring personnel remain prepared for real-life emergencies. Each officer knows evacuation routes marked throughout the facility, guaranteeing swift action when an urgent situation arises.
The control center coordinates emergency responses, facilitating communication between staff and law enforcement as needed, thereby promoting efficient incident management.
Movement control procedures dictate the flow of inmates within the facility, limiting access to authorized areas and ensuring safety during transfers. Staff escort inmates during movement, employing restraints when necessary to minimize the risk of escape or aggression.
Search procedures accompany these movements, as officers conduct checks before and after transfers to prevent the introduction of contraband into secure areas.
Incident reporting and response systems ensure that all occurrences, including minor infractions and significant disturbances, are documented and addressed. Staff members are trained to complete reports accurately and promptly, detailing events and actions taken. This documentation serves as a record for future reference and a tool for evaluating and improving security measures over time.
Using security equipment, such as body cameras and alarm systems, further enhances accountability and provides critical evidence during investigations.
Dale County Jail Inmate Support Services & Development Programs
Dale County Jail maintains comprehensive support services to improve inmate welfare and development through various educational and rehabilitative programs.
The facility provides crucial medical care, nutritional services, and communication systems that enable inmates to maintain contact with their families and legal representatives.
Through structured programs focusing on education, vocational training, and rehabilitation, the jail works to prepare inmates for successful reintegration into society while reducing recidivism rates.
Basic Inmate Services
Life at Dale County Jail encompasses a robust framework of essential services prioritizing inmate health and supporting rehabilitation. Medical staff provide continuous care, ensuring all inmates have access to healthcare 24 hours a day. This commitment includes regular health assessments and immediate attention to medical needs, fostering a safer environment. Nutritionally balanced meals are served three times daily, accommodating various dietary restrictions and preferences to promote physical well-being. Inmates with specific nutritional requirements, such as vegetarian or religiously mandated diets, receive meals tailored to their needs, ensuring that everyone maintains adequate nutrition during custody.
Mental health services play a pivotal role in the overall support system at the jail. Trained mental health professionals conduct individual assessments and offer therapeutic interventions, including group and one-on-one counseling sessions. These services focus on emotional resilience, helping inmates navigate the psychological challenges of incarceration.
In conjunction, religious services provide spiritual guidance and support through organized worship sessions and private consultations with chaplains, addressing the spiritual needs of inmates and fostering a sense of community and hope.
Hygiene and laundry services are integral to inmate well-being, with each inmate receiving personal hygiene products and access to clean clothing regularly. Laundry facilities operate consistently, allowing inmates to maintain cleanliness and personal hygiene, which can significantly affect their mental health and morale.
The jail also operates a commissary system, enabling inmates to purchase personal items and snacks. Inmates can fund their accounts through money orders or online payment services, giving them a sense of autonomy within the facility.
Recreation access provides inmates with opportunities for physical activity and social interaction, essential for mental and emotional health. The jail offers outdoor exercise areas where inmates can participate in sports and fitness activities several times weekly. This physical engagement enhances their physical fitness and contributes to stress relief and improved mood.
Additionally, library services are available, granting inmates access to books, educational materials, and legal resources. This access to literature and learning opportunities encourages self-improvement and helps inmates prepare for reintegration into society post-incarceration.
Together, these services create a comprehensive support system that addresses inmates’ multifaceted needs, promoting their health and safety and their personal growth during their time at Dale County Jail.
Education & Recovery Programs
The facility empowers inmates through robust educational programs that significantly enhance their skills and knowledge base. Participants engage in vocational training, acquiring hands-on expertise in welding, carpentry, and plumbing. These programs provide practical skills and include GED preparation courses and literacy initiatives, creating pathways to improved employability. Individuals who complete these educational requirements are positioned to enter the workforce with confidence, thereby contributing positively to society.
Focusing on holistic recovery, the facility integrates substance abuse treatment with behavioral programs tailored to address the complex emotional and psychological challenges faced by inmates. Through structured partnerships with organizations like SpectraCare, inmates access comprehensive counseling services that tackle substance misuse and mental health concerns. Both individual and group sessions foster a supportive environment for personal reflection and growth.
In addition to therapeutic interventions, life skills training equips participants with essential competencies such as financial literacy, communication skills, and stress management, all critical for navigating life post-incarceration.
Work programs further enhance the rehabilitative experience by allowing inmates to apply their newly acquired skills in real-world settings. These programs are designed to simulate job conditions, enabling participants to gain relevant knowledge that can be directly transferred to employment opportunities upon release.
To qualify for these work programs, inmates must meet specific eligibility criteria, including a commitment to personal development and a clean conduct record for a designated period, which ensures a focused and productive learning environment.
Completing all programs requires inmates to meet established benchmarks, such as attendance rates of at least 80% and active participation in educational and recovery activities. This structured approach reinforces accountability and instills a sense of achievement, motivating inmates to strive for personal excellence.
Participants who fulfill these completion requirements gain access to vital reintegration resources, including housing assistance and job placement services, which are instrumental in facilitating a smooth transition into the community.
Communication & Visitation Guidelines
At Dale County Jail, visitors can access a structured visitation schedule designed to facilitate contact while ensuring security and order. Each inmate is allowed one visit per week, accommodating a maximum of two guests. Visitors must secure pre-approval, which includes undergoing background checks to verify eligibility. This process ensures that all individuals entering the facility are deemed suitable for visitation. To gain access, visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification—such as a driver’s license or passport—at check-in.
To maintain an efficient visitation process, scheduling appointments at least 24 hours in advance is essential by calling 334-774-5402. Arriving 15 minutes before the designated time is crucial, as this allows for check-in and security procedures. In the case of emergencies, visitors can relay messages through jail chaplains or senior staff members, ensuring that urgent communications reach inmates swiftly.
Visitors must adhere to strict conduct requirements while on the premises. Appropriate behavior is mandatory to maintain visitation privileges, including refraining from disruptive conduct or contraband. Special provisions exist for unique circumstances, such as attorney-client meetings or family emergencies, which may allow for additional visits or extended visitation times.
For families visiting with children, specific policies govern the presence of minors. Parents or guardians must ensure that children are supervised during the visit. It is advisable to check with the facility beforehand regarding additional requirements for child visitors, as these can vary based on circumstances.
Regarding communication options, inmates have access to a telephone system that operates daily from 7:30 AM to 10:00 PM, allowing them to make calls to family and friends. Initial arrestees receive complimentary calls to notify their loved ones.
Electronic options are also available for those seeking alternative communication methods. Inmates can send and receive mail, which must comply with facility regulations regarding content and packaging.
This multi-faceted approach to communication and visitation enhances the connection between inmates and their support networks while ensuring that all interactions comply with established safety and security protocols.
Inmate Legal Resources & Protected Rights
Inmate rights at Dale County Jail encompass fundamental legal protections that ensure dignity and humanity during incarceration. Inmates enjoy First Amendment freedoms, allowing them to express themselves and practice their religion, though these freedoms remain subject to reasonable restrictions to maintain security within the facility.
The Fourth Amendment safeguards against unreasonable searches and seizures, ensuring that any intrusion into personal privacy is justified and necessary. Furthermore, the Eighth Amendment protects against cruel and unusual punishment, mandating that inmates receive adequate healthcare and live in safe conditions, with healthcare access, including routine medical visits and emergency care as needed.
Inmates possess grievance procedures to voice concerns about their treatment or conditions of confinement. They may file formal grievances regarding issues, such as inadequate healthcare or unsafe living environments, through established channels that ensure their complaints are documented and addressed.
The facility provides clear guidelines on submitting grievances, allowing inmates to articulate their issues formally and seek resolution. Additionally, inmates retain the right to appeal administrative decisions through this process, ensuring continuous oversight and accountability.
Access to legal resources is critical for inmates preparing for court appearances, as they must navigate the legal system effectively. The facility maintains a designated legal resources section, enabling inmates to access essential materials, case law, and legal forms necessary for their defense.
Inmates can schedule appointments to meet with their attorneys, ensuring they have private and uninterrupted discussions about their cases. These attorney visits are vital for building a defense strategy, as inmates can discuss evidence, legal options, and court timelines directly with their legal representatives.
Dale County Jail also provides access to a law library stocked with legal texts, reference materials, and case law, allowing inmates to conduct their legal research. This library plays a pivotal role in empowering inmates to understand their rights and the legal processes affecting them, ultimately facilitating their ability to represent themselves if they choose to do so.
Inmates can utilize this resource to prepare legal documents, research applicable laws, or even learn about recent changes in legislation that may impact their cases.
Regarding bail bond information, inmates receive guidance on the procedures for securing their release pending trial. Bail bond services provide a critical option for inmates seeking to return to their communities while awaiting court dates.
Inmates can learn about the bail process, including the amounts set for various charges, the conditions that may apply, and how to engage with bail bondsmen to facilitate their release. Understanding these procedures is essential for those who wish to minimize their time in custody and maintain connections with their support networks outside the jail.
Dale County Public Defender & District Attorney
Within the legal framework of Dale County, two pivotal offices collaborate to uphold justice: the Public Defender’s Office and the District Attorney’s Office. Individuals needing defense counsel can reach out for guidance, although direct contact information for public defenders is not publicly available. Instead, they should call the Dale County Circuit Clerk’s Office at (334) 774-5003 to get assistance securing representation.
For those facing criminal charges, the District Attorney’s Office, under the leadership of T. Kirke Adams, actively prosecutes cases to maintain public safety. Located at 100 E Court Square, Ozark, Alabama, 36360, this office can be contacted at 334-774-9500. The District Attorney’s Office works closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure that offenders are held accountable while also seeking justice for victims.
While navigating the complexities of the legal system, individuals may also explore additional resources. The Alabama State Bar and local legal assistance organizations provide further support and information.
The Dale County Courthouse serves as a central location, offering access to various legal services, including court proceedings and documentation necessary for defense and prosecution. These interconnected offices and resources ensure that the legal processes within Dale County are effectively managed, providing a comprehensive system for defendants and the trial.
Release & Community Preparation
Dale County Jail implements a robust release planning process that empowers inmates to prepare for successful reintegration into society. After serving a minimum of 72 hours, inmates become eligible for release consideration, during which they engage in various rehabilitative programs that enhance their readiness for life post-incarceration. Participation in these programs is not merely encouraged but essential for demonstrating commitment to personal growth and behavioral change.
Completing educational programs, such as earning a General Educational Development (GED) certificate or vocational training in trades like welding, carpentry, and plumbing, is a prerequisite for many inmates aiming to secure stable employment upon release. Inmates actively pursuing these educational opportunities acquire valuable skills and build self-esteem and confidence, which are crucial for navigating the job market.
Additionally, inmates gain insight into community resource connections, forming networks that can aid them in finding housing and employment after incarceration.
Collaboration with community organizations ensures inmates have access to post-release services tailored to their needs. Employment assistance programs, for instance, partner with local businesses to facilitate job placements, providing inmates with a pathway to financial independence.
Housing assistance initiatives work to secure safe and affordable living arrangements for those transitioning back into the community, which is vital for reducing the chances of recidivism.
Continued treatment options are readily available for inmates who require ongoing support for mental health or substance abuse issues. The facility coordinates with the State Board of Probation and Parole to ensure these inmates receive the necessary resources and guidance, promoting a smoother transition into society.
Family reunification support programs also play a pivotal role in helping inmates rebuild relationships with loved ones, which can significantly enhance their emotional well-being and stability.
Dale County Jail Performance Metrics & Compliance Reports
Dale County Jail upholds rigorous operational standards prioritizing inmate safety and facility security. The facility operates with a capacity of 116 beds, ensuring that inmate accommodations meet state guidelines. Compliance monitoring occurs through systematic data collection, focusing on key performance metrics such as inmate demographics, pretrial release conditions, and case dispositions.
Weekly compliance reports highlight population trends, illustrating how resource allocation aligns with operational needs and revealing disparities in treatment among racial and ethnic groups.
Incident statistics provide a critical lens on jail safety, as the facility tracks altercations and medical emergencies to identify patterns that necessitate intervention. For instance, a 15% decrease in inmate altercations over the last quarter demonstrates the effectiveness of enhanced staff training initiatives. Staff members undergo regular training sessions emphasizing de-escalation techniques and emergency response protocols, fostering a safer environment for inmates and personnel.
Population management strategies focus on reducing overcrowding while ensuring inmates receive appropriate support during their stay. The jail implements a case management system that monitors inmate progress and facilitates timely pretrial releases based on compliance with established conditions. This proactive approach has resulted in a 20% increase in successful program completions, reflecting the jail’s commitment to rehabilitation and reintegration.
Careful budget allocation underpins the jail’s operational framework, with funds for essential programs and staff development. Recent adjustments have channeled additional resources into mental health services, addressing the specific needs of inmates and improving overall program success rates. For example, investments in mental health counseling have led to a 30% reduction in recidivism among participants, underscoring the importance of tailored interventions.
Analytical efforts continue as the dedicated team within the jail examines population drivers and trends. Collaboration with the sheriff’s office, department of corrections, and county IT systems facilitates the generation of accurate statistics, which informs strategic improvements. Visual presentations and detailed reports communicate these findings effectively, ensuring all stakeholders remain engaged and informed about the facility’s performance metrics and ongoing initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens if an Inmate Needs Emergency Dental Care?
Inmates requiring emergency dental care can submit a sick slip for immediate attention. Medical staff provides necessary treatments, including fillings, bleeding control, and incision procedures under licensed dentist supervision.
Can Inmates Receive Birthday Cards or Holiday Greetings From Family?
Yes, inmates can receive birthday cards and holiday greeting cards from family members if they follow standard mail protocols, including proper addressing and sender information on the envelope.
Are Service Animals Allowed During Visitation Hours?
Service animals are permitted during visitation hours but must follow strict regulations, including remaining under the handler’s control, avoiding interaction with others, and maintaining appropriate behavior. Misrepresenting pets as service animals is prohibited.
What Local Organizations Help Inmates’ Children While Parents Are Incarcerated?
SKIP, Inc. Community Resource Services and Rainbows for All Children provide local support programs focused on academic success, mental health services, and specialized counseling for children with incarcerated parents.
Does the Jail Offer Work Release Programs for Minimum Security Inmates?
Work release programs are available for minimum security inmates, allowing them to work outside during the day while returning to the facility at night under strict supervision and schedules.