The Lamar County Jail in Vernon, Alabama, operates under Sheriff W. D. “Derek” McGath’s authority, providing comprehensive detention services for up to 152 inmates. The facility, constructed in 1992, maintains strict security protocols with regular headcounts and contraband inspections. Twenty-one sworn jailers oversee daily operations, ensuring inmate safety and compliance with Alabama Department of Corrections regulations. Services include medical care, educational programs, substance abuse treatment, and legal resources through the Public Defender’s Office. Inmates have access to video visitation, phone services, and commissary privileges. The facility’s structured programs and release planning demonstrate its commitment to rehabilitation and successful community reintegration, with success rates indicating effective correctional practices.
Lamar County AL Jail Operations & Overview
The Lamar County Jail, located in Vernon, Alabama, operates as a medium-security facility governed by the oversight of Sheriff W. D. “Derek” McGath and managed by Captain Stephanie Melton along with Lieutenant Ashley Johnson. Built in 1992, the jail boasts a capacity of 152 beds, accommodating a diverse demographic of inmates, including those awaiting trial and serving short-term sentences for misdemeanors and felonies.
The facility’s operational policies emphasize the enforcement of strict security measures, including mandatory headcounts conducted at least twice daily, during which inmates must stand and confirm their identities. Regular evaluations and population assessments help staff effectively manage facility resources and prevent overcrowding.
The Alabama Department of Corrections oversees the facility’s compliance with state regulations and standards. This collaboration ensures that the jail upholds its core values of safety, rehabilitation, and community service.
Staffed by 21 sworn jailers, the structure includes roles dedicated to inmate supervision, facility security, and managing various inmate services. These services encompass three daily meals, essential hygiene supplies, and access to commissary items, fostering an environment that prioritizes inmate welfare while maintaining order.
Modern technologies facilitate communication within the facility, allowing inmates to engage with the outside world via video visitation through Smartjailmail and phone services. Each inmate is afforded one complimentary five-minute phone call weekly, enabling connections with family and legal representatives, which is vital for maintaining support networks during incarceration.
Furthermore, the jail actively contributes to community welfare through structured work release programs, permitting eligible male inmates serving county or city sentences to engage in municipal projects. This initiative generates significant taxpayer savings and provides inmates with critical rehabilitation opportunities that aid their reintegration into society.
The Lamar County Jail also coordinates with state institutions to transfer state-sentenced inmates, ensuring a systematic approach to court proceedings and property management.
By maintaining organized visitor scheduling and adhering to policies that promote safety and respect among inmates and staff, the facility exemplifies its commitment to effective correctional practices. This comprehensive approach reflects the jail’s dedication to upholding the highest standards of operation while fostering an environment conducive to rehabilitation and community engagement.
Lamar County Jail
1118 Co Rd 9
Vernon, AL 35592
(205) 695-7103
Initial Processing & Booking
Upon entering the Lamar County Jail, each individual undergoes a detailed booking procedure that formally initiates their custody within the facility. This comprehensive process, which may last from one hour to 48 hours, involves critical steps such as photographing and fingerprinting the arrestee and assigning a unique resident number for identification.
During this initial phase, personal belongings are meticulously inventoried and securely stored to ensure the safety of both the inmate and the facility. Inmates are then provided with standard jail attire, which ensures uniformity and facilitates identification among staff and other inmates. Additional steps include DNA sample collection as part of the standard booking protocol.
During the booking procedure, an initial health screening occurs to identify any immediate medical concerns that may require attention. This preliminary assessment includes an essential physical examination, where vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, and temperature are recorded, allowing medical personnel to address urgent health needs promptly.
Recognizing the importance of maintaining communication with the outside world, the facility grants one free local phone call each new arrival. In contrast, subsequent calls necessitate arrangements for collect or prepaid options, ensuring inmates can contact family or legal counsel as needed.
The classification process begins shortly after booking. Multiple factors are carefully evaluated, including the individual’s current charges, criminal history, and specific medical needs. This initial security assessment not only determines appropriate housing assignments but also establishes the level of supervision required for inmates during their confinement.
As behavior and circumstances evolve, this classification may be reviewed and adjusted, allowing for more suitable housing arrangements if necessary.
Regarding property handling, the jail ensures that the belongings collected during booking are logged accurately, maintained securely, and returned upon release, thus safeguarding personal items while respecting inmates’ rights.
Furthermore, inmates receive notification of their rights throughout this process, empowering them with essential information regarding their legal status and available resources.
After booking, inmates may face various release options, including being released on their recognizance, remaining in custody until their scheduled court date, or arranging to post bail through several payment methods. However, the jail does not establish bond amounts.
The facility’s administrative office readily provides detailed information about bail procedures, enabling individuals to understand their options clearly.
Helpful Resource: Lamar County mugshot access
Helpful Resource: Lamar County Jail Inmate Search
Inmate Housing Assignment & Classification Process
Upon arriving at Lamar County Jail, inmates enter a detailed classification process that critically shapes their housing assignments and security levels. Officers conduct thorough assessments during the booking process, evaluating each inmate’s health needs, custody requirements, and any special accommodations. This assessment employs specific classification criteria encompassing inmates’ criminal charges and pertinent information gathered during intake. The facility relies heavily on inmate rosters updated daily to maintain accurate tracking of all detainees and their classifications.
Based on these evaluations, the booking officer assigns an initial housing unit, designating inmates into three primary custody levels: Close, Medium, and Minimum. Within these levels, additional sub-classifications, such as Minimum-In (inmates allowed limited out-of-cell time) and Minimum-Out (inmates who can participate in outside activities), provide further granularity in determining appropriate housing.
Housing assignments align directly with the established custody classifications, corresponding to varying security levels categorized as IV, V/VI, and VII. Each level accommodates different custody requirements, ensuring inmates are placed in environments that match their assessed risk. For instance, Close custody inmates, who pose higher risks, reside in more secure units with stricter supervision, while Minimum custody inmates often enjoy greater freedom and access to communal activities.
Special housing units cater specifically to inmates with medical or mental health needs, integrating therapeutic support with security considerations. These units help ensure that individuals requiring additional care receive appropriate attention while maintaining safety protocols.
The classification review process occurs within thirty days of an inmate’s arrival, allowing for reevaluations based on changes in charges or newly identified special needs. This timely review is essential, enabling the facility to respond dynamically to an inmate’s evolving situation. Factors influencing unit assignment include behavior, compliance with facility rules, and any incidents that may arise during the initial classification period.
As an inmate’s circumstances fluctuate, movement between classifications can occur, allowing for reassignments to different housing units that better reflect their current risk level and needs.
Housing restrictions and requirements vary significantly based on the determined custody level. For example, inmates classified as being in Close custody may face restrictions on movement within the facility, limited access to communal areas, and increased surveillance. Conversely, Minimum custody inmates enjoy greater privileges, including access to work programs and recreational activities, fostering rehabilitation while ensuring safety.
The facility’s policies dictate that when inmates are transferred to state facilities, such as the Alabama Department of Corrections, their custody classifications and housing placements are reassessed by the Central Classification Unit. This ensures that decisions align with the receiving facility’s overarching safety and operational standards. This systematic approach facilitates a cohesive environment that prioritizes the welfare of both inmates and staff while adhering to security protocols.
Safety Protocols & Security Operations
The Lamar County Jail implements rigorous daily security protocols and procedures, ensuring a secure environment for staff and inmates. Each day begins with thorough inspections of all housing units, where correctional officers meticulously check for contraband—unauthorized items that could pose a safety risk. Officers detect potential threats using metal detectors and handheld scanners, while surveillance cameras monitor common areas for suspicious behavior. Officers conduct random searches of inmate property and common spaces, maintaining a zero-tolerance policy toward contraband possession.
In emergencies, the facility deploys well-defined response procedures that prioritize inmate and staff safety. Officers are trained to enact structured evacuation protocols, which include designated assembly points and clear communication channels. Regular emergency drills prepare staff and inmates for unforeseen events, ensuring everyone understands their roles during a crisis. Medical emergency response systems allow trained personnel to respond swiftly to health-related incidents, often within minutes, ensuring that critical situations receive immediate attention. Under the leadership of Captain Melton, the facility maintains strict adherence to emergency protocols and response procedures.
Count procedures are conducted multiple times throughout the day, with officers performing headcounts to verify the presence of all inmates. During these counts, officers employ a system of checks and balances, comparing physical counts against electronic records to ensure accuracy. Movement control is strictly enforced, requiring inmates to obtain permission before accessing different facility areas. This system minimizes the risk of altercations and escape attempts, maintaining order within the jail.
The control center operates as the facility’s nerve center, where trained staff monitor all activities through high-definition cameras. This centralized location allows for real-time oversight and rapid response to incidents. Each incident reported is documented meticulously, with officers required to file detailed reports that include the nature of the incident, involved parties, and any actions taken. This documentation not only aids in accountability but also informs future policy decisions and training programs.
Security equipment plays a critical role in maintaining safety standards within the jail. Officers utilize advanced technology, including body-worn cameras and two-way radios, to enhance communication and document interactions. The facility conducts regular maintenance checks on security systems to ensure reliability and promptly addresses any malfunctions.
Lamar County AL Jail Inmate Support Services & Development Programs
Lamar County Jail provides crucial support services for inmates, including telephone communications through Pay Tel Communications and access to mental health resources through partnerships with local facilities.
The facility maintains a structured environment with 152 beds and 21 sworn jailers. It offers opportunities for male inmates to participate in community service programs within the county and city limits. Through the facility’s phone system, inmates can make calls from 7 AM to midnight daily.
Due to resource limitations, the jail’s primary focus remains on stabilization rather than comprehensive rehabilitation. However, inmates can access external support through organizations such as Northwest Alabama Mental Health Center and SCOPE 310 for specialized treatment needs.
Basic Inmate Services
Lamar County Jail provides comprehensive medical services that ensure inmates receive proper healthcare. Trained medical personnel deliver routine and emergency medical care under the oversight of licensed physicians, facilitating timely access to treatment and medications. Mental health services are also prioritized, with qualified professionals available to assess and address the psychological needs of inmates. These services include counseling and therapy sessions designed to support inmates struggling with various mental health issues, thereby creating a healthier environment for all.
Meal services at the facility guarantee nutrition through three well-balanced meals daily, adhering to the standards set by the County Health Department. The menus are carefully crafted to meet the minimum dietary requirements for adults, ensuring that inmates receive the necessary sustenance. Nutritional accommodations are available for those with specific health needs or religious dietary restrictions, demonstrating the jail’s commitment to catering to the diverse needs of its population.
In addition to meals, hygiene, and laundry services, maintain cleanliness and personal care. Inmates receive hygiene products regularly, while laundry facilities allow them to wash their clothing and bedding weekly, promoting hygiene and comfort. Messages from family members typically arrive within 24-48 hours through the electronic messaging system.
Commissary operations enable inmates to purchase additional items, enhancing their daily lives within the facility. Family members can deposit funds into inmate commissary accounts via JailATM kiosks, providing access to snacks, personal care items, and phone credits. This system supports inmates’ well-being and fosters connections with their families.
Communication remains a priority; inmates can make phone calls using prepaid time or collect calls, while communication monitoring ensures safety, aside from privileged conversations.
Religious services offer spiritual support, with opportunities for worship at least twice a week. The facility accommodates various faiths, fostering an environment of respect and understanding among inmates. Additionally, recreation access allows inmates to engage in physical activities, which is essential for promoting mental health and physical fitness. The jail provides designated areas for exercise and leisure, ensuring inmates can unwind and socialize in a structured manner.
Library services further enrich the inmates’ experience by offering access to books, educational materials, and legal resources. Inmates can utilize these resources to pursue personal interests or enhance their knowledge, contributing to rehabilitation.
Electronic messaging through tablets or kiosks facilitates communication with loved ones, while approved photos and postcards allow for a personal touch in inmate correspondence. Video calls may also be an option, providing visual interaction with authorized visitors, subject to facility guidelines, and strengthening familial bonds during incarceration.
Education & Recovery Programs
Lamar County Jail prioritizes inmate development by offering various educational programs to foster personal growth and rehabilitation. Inmates engage in Adult Basic Education (ABE) and prepare for the General Educational Development (GED) test, which equips them with fundamental skills that can significantly improve their employment prospects upon release. Participating in these programs requires inmates to meet specific eligibility criteria, typically based on their current educational level, learning motivation, and commitment to completing the coursework.
Vocational training programs provide inmates with hands-on experience in various trades, enhancing their employability in the job market after incarceration. These programs often include construction, culinary arts, and automotive repair certifications, allowing participants to gain practical skills that align with industry demands. Completing vocational training typically necessitates consistent attendance, active participation in all training sessions, and successful performance on assessments related to the specific trade.
Substance abuse treatment remains a crucial component of the recovery programs at the facility, addressing addiction challenges that many inmates face. Inmates who demonstrate a willingness to engage in recovery efforts can access comprehensive treatment programs, which may encompass group therapy, individual counseling, and educational workshops focused on addiction awareness. Successful completion of these programs often hinges on a commitment to sobriety and active participation in the therapeutic process, which fosters both personal accountability and a supportive community.
Behavioral programs further enhance inmates’ emotional and psychological well-being, offering strategies to manage anger, cope with stress, and improve interpersonal relationships. These programs require inmates to participate in structured group discussions and individual assessments, promoting self-reflection and personal growth. Inmates benefit from developing coping mechanisms that can be applied in everyday life, thereby reducing the likelihood of recidivism upon reentry into society.
Integrating life skills training into the rehabilitation process equips inmates with essential skills for daily living, such as financial literacy, effective communication, and conflict resolution. Participants learn to create budgets, develop resumes, and practice interview techniques, which are vital for a successful transition back into the community. Engaging in these sessions requires inmates to be eager to learn and apply new skills, ensuring they are prepared for reintegration challenges.
Work programs allow inmates to maintain employment while serving their sentences, promoting a sense of responsibility and financial independence. Eligible inmates can participate in work release programs, which will enable them to secure jobs in the community while returning to the facility during non-working hours. To qualify for these programs, inmates must have a clean disciplinary record, demonstrate commitment to rehabilitation, and be ready to fulfill job responsibilities.
The collaborative efforts of Lamar County Jail with state-level initiatives ensure that inmates receive comprehensive support as they prepare for reentry into society. Programs like the Alabama Certified Worker Certificate and the Alabama Prison Arts + Education Project (APAEP) provide additional educational and vocational resources, enhancing inmates’ lifelong learning and personal development prospects.
Communication & Visitation Guidelines
At Lamar County Jail, various visit types and schedules cater to the needs of inmates and their approved visitors. In-person visits occur weekly, each inmate allowed up to five visitors for one hour. Visitors must be on the inmate’s approved list and present valid photo identification upon arrival.
Special visit provisions, including contact visits for inmate workers, follow the same guidelines but are restricted to the designated visitor limits.
Visitor conduct requirements emphasize the importance of maintaining a respectful environment. Visitors must adhere to the facility’s dress codes, and any inappropriate behavior will result in the immediate termination of the visit.
Children accompanying adult visitors must also comply with these conduct standards, ensuring a suitable atmosphere during visits. Minors’ guardians must supervise them at all times, and children may only visit if they are listed on the approved visitor list.
Mail procedures dictate that all non-legal correspondence be sent to Smart Communications-Lamar County Jail, where it undergoes inspection for contraband. Once processed, mail is scanned and made available electronically through kiosk systems within the facility.
This ensures that inmates can receive messages promptly while maintaining security protocols.
The telephone system access allows inmates to communicate with the outside world through Pay Tel Communications. Inmates can initiate calls between 7 a.m. and midnight using either prepaid time or collect calling options.
All phone conversations are monitored, except those involving privileged communications with legal counsel, ensuring compliance with facility regulations.
Electronic communication options extend beyond traditional mail and phone calls. The Smart Communications kiosk system facilitates internal messaging, enabling inmates to send and receive messages from approved contacts.
Additionally, remote video visitation can be arranged through the JailATM website. The website offers one free remote visit weekly, which is reset every Sunday. This flexibility enhances inmates’ ability to maintain relationships with their loved ones while adhering to the facility’s communication guidelines.
Inmate Legal Resources & Protected Rights
Lamar County Jail ensures inmates possess fundamental legal rights essential for their defense and well-being during incarceration. Inmates maintain the right to access various legal resources, including a comprehensive law library equipped with essential legal texts, which they can utilize for research purposes as long as the materials fit within their designated property limits.
The facility’s Kiosk system enhances this access by enabling inmates to communicate internally regarding legal matters and submit grievances electronically from their housing units, streamlining the process of addressing potential rights violations.
The grievance procedure is a critical mechanism through which inmates can address concerns about treatment or conditions within the facility. Initially, inmates must engage with floor officers to discuss their grievances informally; if unresolved, they can formally submit a grievance.
The facility is committed to responding to these grievances within seven business days, ensuring that inmates’ concerns directly related to jail authority are promptly addressed. This structured approach promotes accountability and transparency within the jail environment.
During court appearances, inmates can carry necessary legal documents to support their cases, facilitating a smoother judicial process. Inmates must maintain open lines of communication with their appointed attorneys, who guide them through legal proceedings and provide necessary representation.
Attorney visits are encouraged, allowing inmates to discuss legal strategies and case details in a confidential setting, which is vital for effective defense preparation.
Access to the law library is pivotal in empowering inmates with knowledge about their rights and legal procedures. This resource allows them to research specific legal issues, prepare for hearings, and understand the complexities of their cases.
By having access to various legal materials, inmates can better advocate for themselves and navigate the intricacies of the legal system.
Bail bond information is also accessible to inmates, providing them with the necessary details regarding their options for release before trial. Understanding the bail process, including how to secure a bond and the financial implications involved, is vital for inmates seeking to regain their freedom while awaiting court proceedings.
This knowledge aids inmates in making informed decisions regarding their legal circumstances, reinforcing their autonomy and rights within the correctional system.
Lamar County AL Public Defender & District Attorney
In Lamar County, legal representation is facilitated through two primary offices: the Public Defender’s Office and the District Attorney’s Office. The Public Defender’s Office ensures that indigent defendants—those who lack the financial means to hire private attorneys—receive competent legal counsel. This office specializes in felony and misdemeanor cases, providing crucial criminal defense representation to those in need.
Although specific details about the office may not be widely available, it generally handles juvenile cases, adhering to income qualification guidelines to determine eligibility for its services.
For those seeking assistance from the Public Defender’s Office, the contact information is as follows:
Lamar County Public Defender’s Office
330 1st Street NE
Vernon, AL 35592
(205) 695-7193
On the other hand, the District Attorney’s Office, overseen by District Attorney Andy Hamlin, plays a vital role in prosecuting criminal cases and supporting victims throughout the 24th Judicial Circuit, encompassing Lamar, Fayette, and Pickens counties.
This office maintains regular hours at the Lamar County Courthouse, open every Thursday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Here, the District Attorney’s Office actively engages in the legal processes necessary to uphold justice within the community.
Individuals seeking to connect with the District Attorney’s Office can find them at:
Lamar County District Attorney’s Office
330 1st Street NE
Vernon, AL 35592
(205) 695-9126
Through these two offices, Lamar County ensures a balanced approach to legal representation. Defendants receive necessary support, while the District Attorney’s Office advocates for the prosecution of criminal offenses.
This dual structure upholds the principles of justice and provides a framework for protecting individuals’ rights, maintaining public safety, and ensuring that legal processes are conducted fairly and equitably.
Release & Community Preparation
The release planning process at the Lamar County Jail emphasizes strategic preparation to facilitate a successful transition into society. Within 48 hours of arrest, defendants undergo a court appearance, where a judge sets bail amounts based on the severity of the offense. The facility accommodates various bail forms, including judicial public bail, cash payments, property bonds, and professional surety bonds. Property within Lamar County potentially serves as collateral, necessitating signatures from all property owners.
Inmates actively develop a comprehensive release plan incorporating essential elements such as securing stable housing, arranging reliable transportation, and identifying job opportunities. The Alabama Department of Corrections plays a pivotal role by offering supervised re-entry programs and crucial post-release services, which include educational initiatives and vocational training designed to enhance skills and employability. Those completing these programs demonstrate commitment to rehabilitation and increase their chances of gaining employment, with statistics indicating that individuals who engage in job training significantly improve their employment prospects compared to those who do not.
Connections to community resources remain vital for enhancing the re-entry experience. Inmates are encouraged to tap into local counseling services, job training programs, and housing assistance that can provide the necessary support to navigate reintegration challenges.
The State Board of Probation and Parole oversees the compliance of released individuals, requiring regular check-ins with probation officers, which ensures accountability and reduces the likelihood of recidivism. Failure to adhere to these conditions, such as missing court dates or violating probation terms, can result in bond revocation and lead to further legal ramifications.
Family reunification support is another critical component of the release process, as maintaining strong familial connections can significantly impact an individual’s adjustment to life outside of incarceration. Programs facilitating communication with family members during incarceration help strengthen these bonds, providing emotional and practical support upon release.
Continued treatment options for substance abuse or mental health issues are also made available, ensuring that individuals receive the necessary care to address underlying challenges that may hinder their reintegration success.
Additional Resource: Alabama Department of Corrections – state directory
Lamar County AL Jail Performance Metrics & Compliance Reports
Operational standards at the Lamar County Jail prioritize maintaining a safe and efficient environment for both inmates and staff, implementing a rigorous framework that aligns with state and federal guidelines. The facility operates at a 152-bed capacity, ensuring that each aspect of population management, including intake, classification, and release processes, is meticulously monitored to optimize resource allocation.
Compliance monitoring systems, such as those provided by ICSolutions and JailATM, facilitate the oversight of inmate communications and visitation while also enhancing accountability within the facility.
Incident statistics reveal critical insights into the jail’s operational effectiveness, with detailed records of occurrences such as altercations, medical emergencies, and disciplinary actions. The administration can identify trends by analyzing these statistics, allowing for targeted interventions that enhance safety protocols and operational procedures.
For instance, a notable decrease in altercations following the introduction of de-escalation training for staff underscores the importance of proactive measures in fostering a secure environment.
Program success rates are a vital component of the facility’s rehabilitation efforts, with various initiatives aimed at reducing recidivism among inmates. The jail offers community service programs and educational workshops that benefit inmates and contribute positively to the surrounding community.
Tracking the completion rates of these programs, which have consistently hovered around 85% over the past year, provides tangible evidence of their effectiveness and highlights the facility’s commitment to promoting positive behavioral change.
Budget allocation reflects the facility’s priorities, with significant investments directed toward staff training and program development. By dedicating approximately 15% of the annual budget to professional development, the administration ensures that staff members have the necessary skills to manage diverse inmate populations effectively.
Regular workshops and training sessions focus on areas such as crisis intervention, mental health awareness, and conflict resolution, which collectively enhance the overall competency of the staff and improve interactions with inmates.
The emphasis on continuous improvement permeates all aspects of the jail’s operations, with a strong focus on data-driven decision-making. Regular assessments of performance metrics inform strategic planning, allowing the administration to adapt to changing needs within the facility and the community at large.
This comprehensive approach ensures that the Lamar County Jail meets compliance requirements and serves as a model for operational excellence and community engagement, ultimately contributing to public safety and well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens to an Inmate’s Personal Property After Their Release?
Upon release, inmates receive their inventoried personal property after signing a confirmation form. Items unclaimed within thirty days may be disposed of according to institutional regulations and established procedures.
Can Inmates Receive Mail That Contains Photos or Drawings?
Inmates can receive photos that meet strict requirements: plain white/photo paper, 4×6 inches maximum, professionally printed. Drawings are permitted. All images must comply with content restrictions and security protocols.
Are Work Release Programs Available for Minimum Security Inmates?
Work release programs are available for minimum security inmates who meet eligibility requirements. They can perform community improvement tasks while earning wages and must follow strict program directives and supervision.
How Do I Report Mistreatment or File a Complaint About Jail Conditions?
First, file a grievance through the jail’s internal procedure, documenting all details. If unresolved, escalate to state agencies and consider contacting a civil rights attorney while maintaining thorough records.
What Medical Services Are Covered by the Jail’s Healthcare Program?
The jail’s healthcare program covers medical evaluations, sick calls, dental care for pain/infection, mental health assessments, and emergency services. All inmates have access regardless of their ability to pay.Helpful