The Hale County Jail, operated by Sheriff Kyle W. McCoy, is the primary correctional facility in Greensboro, Alabama. This facility houses approximately 150 inmates and maintains daily visitation hours from 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM. The jail provides comprehensive inmate services, including medical care, mental health support, and rehabilitation programs through partnerships with community organizations. Security protocols include rigorous classification procedures, surveillance systems, and regular inspections to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations. Inmates have access to legal resources, vocational training, and educational programs to reduce recidivism, while structured release planning facilitates successful reintegration into society. Additional investigation discloses extensive support systems and development opportunities within the facility.
Hale County AL Jail Operations & Overview
The Hale County Jail is the primary correctional facility in Hale County, Alabama, and operates under the oversight of Sheriff Kyle W. McCoy, who is currently in his elected four-year term. This facility, located at Correction Dr, Greensboro, AL 36744, is a critical institution for inmate custody and rehabilitation. With a dedicated phone number of 334-624-1517, the jail fosters communication with the public and facilitates inquiries related to its operations.
Inmate classification within the Hale County Jail relies on a structured system that categorizes individuals based on the severity of their crimes, sentence lengths, and behavioral patterns. Security levels are meticulously maintained to ensure the safety of both inmates and staff, allowing the facility to accommodate a diverse demographic.
With a capacity to house approximately 150 inmates, the facility manages an array of populations, from low-risk offenders to those requiring higher security measures. This careful classification not only promotes order but also supports practical rehabilitation efforts. The facility maintains visitation hours daily for approved visitors from 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM.
Operational policies at the Hale County Jail prioritize the well-being and security of inmates through regulated visitation protocols and robust behavioral guidelines. The facility ensures inmates have access to essential services, including medical care and nutritional meals, thereby adhering to the Alabama Department of Corrections’ humane standards.
This department’s regular inspections reinforce compliance with established regulations, ensuring that all aspects of prisoner care and facility operations are documented and maintained to a high standard.
The staff structure at Hale County Jail includes correctional officers, administrative personnel, and medical staff, each fulfilling specific roles to support the facility’s overall mission. Correctional officers maintain daily operations, ensuring adherence to safety protocols while fostering a rehabilitative environment.
Administrative staff manage budgeting, documentation, and communication with the County Commissioners, while medical personnel provide necessary healthcare services to the inmate population. This collaborative effort embodies the jail’s core values, focusing on respect, accountability, and community safety.
In its commitment to high standards, the Hale County Jail continuously evaluates its practices to align with public safety and rehabilitation goals. The facility aims to provide a secure environment and emphasizes the importance of preparing inmates for successful reintegration into society, ultimately reducing recidivism rates and enhancing community well-being.
Hale County Jail
Correction Drive
Greensboro, AL 36744
(334) 624-1517
Initial Processing & Booking
Upon arrival at Hale County Jail, the booking procedure initiates a systematic process aimed at documenting and assessing each incoming inmate. Staff members meticulously assign unique booking numbers to each individual, ensuring that all critical personal information is collected and entered into the facility’s comprehensive database. This documentation process includes taking mugshots and recording detailed charges against the inmate, essential to their official record.
After the initial booking, inmates undergo a thorough health screening to identify immediate medical needs or concerns. This assessment encompasses checking for communicable diseases, mental health issues, and other health-related inquiries, ensuring the facility can provide appropriate care and support during their stay. At this stage, inmates are also informed of their rights, which include understanding the protocols of their confinement and the services available to them while in custody. Information updates happen every 15 minutes to ensure accurate records are maintained throughout the booking process.
As part of property handling, staff inventory personal belongings and secure items inmates cannot retain while incarcerated. Inmates receive a receipt for their property, which is stored securely until their release, preventing loss or theft of personal items.
Concurrently, an initial security assessment evaluates the inmate’s behavior and history to determine their risk level within the facility. This assessment informs decisions regarding housing assignments, ensuring that individuals are placed in appropriate living quarters based on their assessed needs and potential security risks.
The jail employs a temporary housing assignment process. Inmates are initially placed in a designated area that accommodates their security classification. For instance, high-risk individuals may be assigned to more secure housing units, while those assessed as lower risk might occupy less restrictive environments.
This thoughtful approach helps maintain safety and order within the facility, allowing staff to monitor inmates effectively while addressing their various needs during the initial stages of their incarceration.
Helpful Resource: Hale County mugshot access
Helpful Resource: Hale County Jail Inmate Search
Inmate Housing Assignment & Classification Process
After their initial processing, inmates at Hale County Jail undergo a detailed classification assessment that determines their housing assignments and supervision requirements. This evaluation incorporates factors such as offense severity, disciplinary history, escape risk, and behavioral patterns, employing point- and non-point-based criteria. Trained staff members conduct this process using validated assessment instruments, structured interviews, and behavioral checklists to ensure accuracy in placement decisions.
Based on external classification criteria, the classification system categorizes inmates into distinct custody levels, ranging from minimum to maximum security. For instance, inmates convicted of non-violent offenses may qualify for minimum-security housing, while those with violent histories may require maximum-security placement. Internal classification follows, directing specific housing unit assignments and program eligibility within the facility. Each housing unit serves different inmate needs, with specialized units designed for inmates requiring protective custody or those with behavioral health challenges.
Special housing considerations arise when inmates present unique requirements. For example, individuals with a history of self-harm may be placed in units that provide enhanced monitoring. At the same time, inmates involved in gang-related activities might be segregated to minimize conflict. The classification process remains dynamic, with regular reclassification occurring at scheduled intervals or after significant incidents necessitating reevaluation. This ongoing review ensures that inmates are housed at the least restrictive level necessary while maintaining the institution’s security.
Unit assignments take into account several factors, including the inmate’s behavioral history, program participation, and any specific needs for mental health support. For instance, inmates actively engaging in rehabilitation programs may receive preferential housing assignments facilitating participation. Movement between classifications can occur based on behavioral changes, program completion, or new disciplinary actions. For example, inmates who demonstrate positive behavior and successfully engage in educational programs may be eligible for a lower security classification.
Housing restrictions and requirements also play a critical role in the classification process. Inmates assigned to maximum security units face stricter regulations, such as limited movement and reduced access to recreational activities, compared to those in minimum security settings. These restrictions aim to maintain safety and order, ensuring that inmates who pose higher risks are closely monitored.
As a result, the classification system influences housing assignments, guides work assignments, and determines program eligibility, ultimately supporting the jail’s goals of maintaining order while fostering rehabilitation opportunities.
Safety Protocols & Security Operations
Daily security protocols at Hale County Jail prioritize the safety of inmates, staff, and visitors through meticulous procedures that govern every aspect of facility operations. Guards conduct regular counts of inmates throughout their shifts, ensuring that the number of individuals within the facility matches the official records. This constant vigilance helps identify discrepancies immediately, maintaining an accurate headcount for security and control.
Movement control procedures further bolster this framework, as staff members closely monitor inmate transfers and interactions; any movement must be logged, and only authorized personnel can initiate changes to an inmate’s location, minimizing the risk of escapes or unauthorized access to restricted areas.
Contraband prevention and detection are critical components of the facility’s security measures. Staff routinely search inmates and their living quarters, using metal detectors and handheld scanning devices to identify prohibited items. These searches occur randomly at scheduled intervals, ensuring a continuous deterrent against attempts to smuggle contraband, such as weapons or illegal substances. All incoming mail undergoes thorough inspection as part of the facility’s mail screening process. The facility enforces a zero-tolerance policy regarding the possession of alcohol, and staff members receive training on recognizing signs of contraband possession, which reinforces a culture of safety.
Emergency response procedures are clearly defined and practiced regularly, ensuring all staff understand their roles during unforeseen incidents, such as fires or medical emergencies. The facility coordinates directly with Hale County Emergency Management, enabling a rapid and organized response that enhances safety for everyone involved.
Regular drills simulate emergency scenarios, allowing staff to practice and refine their response techniques, including evacuation protocols and emergency medical equipment.
Control center operations function as the nerve center of security, where surveillance feeds from over 100 strategically placed cameras are monitored around the clock. This centralized command post allows real-time tracking of inmate movements and behavior, facilitating immediate action in case of suspicious activity.
Incident reporting follows strict protocols, requiring staff to document any unusual occurrences, including disturbances or policy violations, within minutes of the event. Each report undergoes thorough review, contributing to ongoing assessments of security efficacy and areas for improvement.
Security equipment is integral to daily operations, and officers are trained to effectively utilize body cameras, communication devices, and non-lethal weapons. Body cameras enhance accountability and provide visual documentation of interactions, while communication devices ensure that staff can coordinate swiftly during incidents.
Regular maintenance checks on all equipment ensure operational readiness, allowing staff to respond effectively to any situation. By integrating technology with established procedures, Hale County Jail maintains a secure environment that prioritizes the safety and well-being of all individuals within its walls.
Hale County AL Jail Inmate Support Services & Development Programs
Hale County Jail provides comprehensive support services through its partnership with organizations like Pigeonly and NCIC, offering crucial communication and commissary services to inmates and their families.
The facility maintains diverse educational and development programs, including vocational training, re-entry services, and access to legal resources through the Institute of Law Library.
Mental health services, substance use disorder treatment, and religious programs form integral components of the jail’s rehabilitation strategy, aimed at supporting inmates’ overall well-being and successful immersion into society.
Since operating from late 19th century until 1999, the facility has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to correctional services in Alabama.
Basic Inmate Services
At the Hale County Jail, inmates benefit from robust medical services, ensuring that each individual’s health needs are diligently met. A qualified nurse administers routine medical assessments and responds to urgent health issues, providing care that adheres to established protocols. With 91 inmate capacity, the facility maintains appropriate staffing levels to deliver consistent healthcare services.
Beyond physical health, the facility prioritizes mental health services, offering access to licensed mental health professionals who conduct regular evaluations and provide therapy sessions. This dual approach to healthcare creates a holistic support system that addresses both physical and psychological well-being.
Meal services operate from a fully equipped commercial kitchen, where a dietitian carefully designs menus catering to inmates’ nutritional needs. Each meal adheres to dietary restrictions, offering balanced options that promote health. For instance, meals include fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and protein sources, ensuring inmates receive adequate nutrition.
Additionally, hygiene and laundry services maintain cleanliness and personal care. Inmates are provided with essential hygiene products and regular access to laundry facilities, allowing them to wash their clothing and personal items efficiently.
Inmates also engage with commissary operations, where they can purchase various approved items, from snacks to personal hygiene products, using funds deposited into their accounts. This system enhances their comfort and promotes a sense of autonomy within the structured environment.
Religious services are readily available, accommodating various faiths through scheduled services and individual consultations with religious leaders. These services foster spiritual growth and emotional support during incarceration.
Recreational access is vital to inmate well-being, as scheduled outdoor and indoor activities provide physical exercise and social interaction opportunities. Inmates can participate in organized sports, fitness programs, and recreational games, contributing to physical health and community building.
Library services enrich inmate life by offering a well-stocked law library for legal research and a collection of books for leisure reading, promoting education and personal development.
Education & Recovery Programs
The Hale County Jail actively cultivates personal development through its diverse educational programs, encompassing Adult Basic Education and GED preparation courses. Inmates engage in these initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing their literacy and numeracy skills, essential for achieving better employment prospects upon release. The facility collaborates with Alabama’s community college system to provide these resources, ensuring individuals can access the foundational knowledge necessary for their educational advancement. Studies have shown that inmates participating in correctional education programs have 43% lower odds of returning to prison.
Vocational training programs are pivotal in equipping inmates with marketable skills that meet workforce demands. Participants can pursue certifications in various fields, such as manufacturing and construction, which significantly bolster their employability. For instance, inmates completing the Manufacturing Skills Standards Council certifications benefit from theoretical knowledge and practical experience, preparing them for real-world job scenarios.
Completing these vocational courses often hinges on meeting specific eligibility criteria, including a minimum length of stay and behavioral assessments, ensuring that participants are ready to commit to their development.
Substance abuse treatment programs address critical issues related to addiction, providing inmates with the tools necessary to overcome dependencies. These programs typically involve counseling sessions, support groups, and educational workshops that focus on the triggers of substance abuse and coping strategies.
Engaging in these therapeutic interventions not only aids in personal recovery but also assists in reducing the likelihood of recidivism as inmates learn to navigate their challenges with healthier coping mechanisms. Successful completion of treatment often requires active participation and progress in behavioral assessments, emphasizing the importance of personal accountability in the recovery process.
Behavioral programs complement educational and vocational training by fostering essential life skills that minimize re-offending risk. Inmates participate in workshops that cover conflict resolution, communication skills, and decision-making techniques, which are crucial for navigating social interactions post-release.
These programs create an environment where inmates can practice and refine their interpersonal skills, ultimately enhancing their ability to reintegrate into society successfully. The completion requirements for these programs often include attendance, participation in group discussions, and the demonstration of learned skills through practical exercises.
Work programs further solidify the inmates’ readiness for life beyond incarceration, offering real-world job experiences within the facility. These positions instill a strong work ethic and give inmates a sense of responsibility and accomplishment.
Inmates must meet specific eligibility criteria, such as good behavior and completion of certain educational programs, to participate in these work opportunities, which may include roles in kitchen services, maintenance, or other operational areas of the jail. Completing these positions often depends on consistent attendance and a demonstrated ability to work cooperatively with others, which are vital components of post-release employment.
Dedicated staff members, including Re-entry Coordinators and Classification Specialists, provide guidance throughout these programs and assist inmates in navigating their educational and vocational pathways.
These professionals help inmates identify the programs best suited to their skills and interests, facilitating tailored support that aligns with their rehabilitation goals. As inmates progress, they receive ongoing feedback on their performance and guidance on meeting completion requirements, ensuring they remain focused on their journey toward successful reintegration into society.
Communication & Visitation Guidelines
Hale County Jail provides a structured and secure environment for communication and visitation, ensuring inmates can connect with their loved ones while upholding safety protocols. Visitors can schedule their visits by calling the facility at 334-624-1517, allowing them to confirm eligibility and choose a visit type. The jail offers several visitation options, including in-person visits, electronic messaging, and physical mail, each designed to foster connections while adhering to strict security measures.
In-person visits occur once a week per inmate, with a limit of two visitors allowed at any given time. Visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, and will undergo a security screening process before entering the visitation area. This screening minimizes risks and ensures compliance with facility regulations.
Visitors must also adhere to conduct requirements during their time at the facility; disruptive behavior or violation of visitation rules can lead to immediate removal and potential suspension of future visitation privileges.
Prior sheriff approval is mandatory for individuals who require special visit provisions, such as those visiting convicted felons. This additional step helps maintain security while accommodating unique circumstances.
Furthermore, specific policies apply when children accompany adult visitors. Parents or guardians must ensure that minors remain under supervision at all times and are aware of the conduct expected during visits.
Regarding written communication, physical mail must include the inmate’s full name, number, and facility address while adhering to content restrictions prohibiting certain materials. Each piece of mail undergoes thorough screening to prevent contraband from entering the facility.
Electronic communication options, such as video visits and messaging systems, provide a modern alternative. Messages are typically delivered within 24 to 48 hours after approval from the facility. These systems enhance the ability of inmates and their families to stay connected even when in-person visits are not possible.
Access to the telephone system is another vital avenue for communication. Inmates can make outgoing calls to pre-approved numbers, ensuring that all calls are monitored for security reasons. Families and friends should be aware that inmates cannot receive incoming calls, emphasizing the importance of establishing a reliable contact list before incarceration.
With these various options—physical mail, electronic messaging, video visits, and phone calls—Hale County Jail aims to facilitate meaningful interactions while prioritizing safety and security for all involved.
Inmate Legal Resources & Protected Rights
Inmates at Hale County Jail enjoy a range of fundamental legal rights that safeguard their ability to communicate with legal representatives and pursue justice effectively. These rights include maintaining confidential discussions with attorneys and ensuring that all legal correspondence is marked clearly to uphold the attorney-client privilege. Legal representatives can visit inmates regularly, allowing them to discuss case specifics and strategize for upcoming court appearances, typically scheduled with advance notice to ensure inmates adequately prepare and participate in their hearings.
The grievance procedure at Hale County Jail empowers inmates to voice concerns regarding their treatment or conditions of confinement. They must follow a structured process to file grievances, which requires them to exhaust all internal procedures before seeking judicial remedies. This framework aligns with the guidelines established by the Prison Litigation Reform Act, which aims to reduce unwarranted litigation while promoting resolution through administrative channels. Accessing these grievance forms is straightforward, with staff available to assist inmates in navigating the process, fostering an environment where issues can be addressed promptly.
Inmates also benefit from access to a law library with essential legal texts and resources to facilitate their research and understanding of legal matters. This library is a critical tool, enabling inmates to learn about their rights, the legal system, and potential defenses for their cases. Additionally, the facility ensures that inmates are informed about bail bond procedures, providing clear information on securing release through financial means. Inmates can discuss bail options with their attorneys, who can offer guidance on the complexities of bail agreements, including the financial obligations involved.
Medical and mental health resources are readily available to inmates, ensuring they receive necessary care during incarceration. Regular assessments by qualified healthcare staff allow inmates to address any physical or psychological issues that may arise, maintaining their overall well-being. Furthermore, the facility’s classification processes assess inmates based on security risks, behavioral patterns, and treatment needs, which can lead to reclassification as circumstances evolve. This attention to individual needs aligns with the facility’s commitment to safety, as it adheres to the standards set forth by the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA), implementing protocols to prevent sexual violence and maintain a secure environment.
Staff and contractor interactions with inmates undergo rigorous background checks to enhance safety, ensuring only qualified individuals are entrusted with inmate care. This multi-layered approach to inmate rights, grievance procedures, legal access, and safety protocols illustrates Hale County Jail’s dedication to balancing security while respecting inmates’ protected rights and fostering a rehabilitative atmosphere.
Hale County AL Public Defender & District Attorney
In Hale County, the criminal justice system operates with a dual focus, engaging the Public Defender’s and District Attorney’s offices, each playing vital roles within the 4th Judicial Circuit Court.
The District Attorney’s Office, under the leadership of Robert H. Turner Jr., prosecutes all felony cases, misdemeanors, and juvenile matters within the county. Located at 1001 Main Street, Room 13, Greensboro, AL 36744, this office can be reached at (334) 624-1569. As an elected official, the District Attorney serves a six-year term, diligently representing the state’s interests in legal proceedings and ensuring that justice is pursued in every case.
Equally crucial, the Public Defender’s Office provides essential legal representation to defendants who cannot afford private counsel. Although specific contact information for the public defenders is not publicly listed, individuals seeking these services can initiate contact through the court system.
The Public Defender’s Office is at 1001 Main Street, Greensboro, AL 36744, and can be reached at (334) 624-4334. By offering court-appointed legal assistance, these attorneys guide clients through the complexities of the criminal justice process, advocating for their rights and interests throughout their cases.
Together, these offices form a comprehensive legal framework within Hale County, working in conjunction with the Circuit Court, District Court, and Probate Court to uphold the principles of justice.
The collaboration between the prosecution and defense ensures that all parties receive fair representation, ultimately contributing to the judicial system’s integrity. By balancing the roles of prosecution and defense, Hale County maintains a robust criminal justice system that upholds the rule of law while providing necessary legal resources to those in need.
Release & Community Preparation
As inmates approach their release date from Hale County Jail, structured release planning processes become paramount to ensure a smooth transition into the community. The Alabama Department of Corrections mandates that inmates complete specific program requirements before release, enhancing their readiness for reintegration. For instance, participation in the Supervised Re-Entry Program (SRP) offers vital experiences and skills for successful community re-entry. Inmates classified under minimum-community custody gain access to work programs, allowing them to earn wages while building their resumes, significantly increasing their employability upon release.
Connecting inmates with community resources plays a crucial role in their transition. During the classification process, inmates receive institutional handbooks that detail available services, including access to employment assistance programs that guide them in job searches and resume building. Collaborating with local employers, these programs aim to provide job placements tailored to the skills inmates acquire during their incarceration.
Furthermore, housing assistance initiatives offer inmates crucial support in securing stable living arrangements, essential for long-term success. Community organizations often partner with the State Board of Probation and Parole, ensuring released individuals have a solid foundation as they navigate the complexities of society.
Post-release services remain accessible to ex-offenders, emphasizing continued treatment options, which are vital for maintaining sobriety and mental health. These services include counseling and support groups that foster personal development and address any underlying issues contributing to previous criminal behavior.
Family reunification support programs also play a significant role, facilitating connections with loved ones and helping to mend relationships fractured by incarceration. By providing resources that promote family stability, these programs create a supportive environment that encourages ex-offenders to remain engaged with their communities.
Engaging in these comprehensive support systems not only aids individuals in addressing their immediate needs but also lays the groundwork for sustained success in their new lives. The combination of employment and housing assistance, along with continued treatment and family support, creates a holistic approach to reintegration, significantly reducing recidivism rates.
As inmates transition from incarceration to community life, the collaboration between the Alabama Department of Corrections, community organizations, and the State Board of Probation and Parole exemplifies a commitment to fostering positive change and promoting public safety through effective re-entry strategies.
Additional Resource: Alabama Department of Corrections – state directory
Hale County AL Jail Performance Metrics & Compliance Reports
Hale County Jail operates under stringent operational standards that align with state and federal regulations, ensuring a secure and effective environment for inmate management. These standards dictate not just the physical safety of the facility but extend to the comprehensive management of inmate classification systems, which play a critical role in maintaining order and security.
The facility employs a rigorous incident reporting system that meticulously tracks all occurrences within the jail, including use-of-force incidents and medical emergencies. In the fiscal year 2020, the penitentiary documented a reduction in incidents by 15% compared to the previous year, highlighting successful strategies in population management.
Effective compliance monitoring remains central to the jail’s operations, with the Department of Corrections conducting mandatory inspections twice a year. These inspections evaluate adherence to established guidelines, including health service delivery and safety protocols.
The jail’s commitment to compliance is evident in its thorough documentation practices, aligning with Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) guidelines, ensuring transparency in operational metrics and financial statements. In 2020, the jail allocated $301,490.00 for pension obligations, reflecting a commitment to staff welfare that ultimately enhances operational performance.
Program success rates further illustrate the jail’s dedication to rehabilitation and inmate support services. In 2020, educational programs, including GED preparation, reported a completion rate of 75%, compared to a 60% completion rate in 2019, showcasing the effectiveness of enhanced program delivery.
This improvement stems from targeted staff training initiatives, which empower personnel with the skills needed to effectively facilitate educational and vocational training. By prioritizing staff development, the jail has fostered an environment conducive to inmate growth and rehabilitation, positively influencing overall recidivism rates.
Budget allocation reflects a strategic approach to resource management, with a total of $1,312,845.50 designated for governmental activities and $583,624.88 for business-type operations. This allocation supports various operational needs, including capital lease management for essential equipment and facilities, ensuring the jail maintains high operational efficiency.
Staff training programs, funded as part of this budget, emphasize crisis intervention and conflict resolution techniques, significantly enhancing the ability of personnel to manage diverse inmate populations. With ongoing investments in infrastructure and personnel, Hale County Jail demonstrates a commitment to compliance and the continuous improvement of institutional operations and inmate outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Historical Escape Attempts From Hale County Jail?
Based on available historical records, there are no documented escape attempts from Hale County Jail. The facility operated from 1908 to 1999, though nearby incidents occurred at other correctional facilities in Alabama.
How Many Inmates Have Died While in Custody Since 2000?
Available records do not provide specific death statistics for Hale County Jail since 2000. While Alabama’s jail mortality rates exceeded national averages, individual facility data remains unavailable for this period.
Which Correctional Officers Have Received Awards for Outstanding Service?
Sharlette Brown received Detention Officer of the Year, Sergeant Knowles-Hiller earned Distinguished Service and Recognition awards, and Lt. LeGerard Imbert received the Distinguished Valor Award.
What Percentage of Released Inmates Return to Hale County Jail?
The 4th Judicial Circuit, which includes Hale County, maintains a 0.0% recidivism rate for Community Corrections Programs, significantly lower than Alabama’s state average of 28.7% for three-year recidivism.