The White County Detention Center in Searcy, Arkansas, operates as a medium-security facility with a 380-bed capacity, housing both male and female inmates. The facility is located at 1600 E Booth Rd, Searcy, and maintains four female dorms and eleven male pods under Sheriff Will Statler’s governance. The center provides comprehensive inmate services, including medical care, mental health support, and educational programs, while adhering to state security regulations. A four-tier classification system determines housing assignments, and inmates can access legal resources, visitation privileges, and vocational training. The facility’s structured approach to rehabilitation and reintegration offers numerous pathways for inmate development and support.
White County AR Jail Operations & Overview
The White County Detention Center, located at 1600 E Booth Rd, Searcy, AR 72143, operates as a medium-security correctional facility, classified under the supervision of the Arkansas Department of Corrections. This facility accommodates 380 inmates, encompassing male and female populations within its structured environment, including four female dorms and eleven male pods.
Governed by Sheriff Will Statler and overseen by Capt. Clayton Edwards, the facility prioritizes community safety and the well-being of detainees while adhering to the standards set forth by the state. The detention center works diligently to maintain community safety through secure housing and monitoring of detainees.
Within its framework, the detention center enforces key operational policies that ensure a safe and secure environment for staff and inmates. The intake process involves thorough procedures such as booking, fingerprinting, and, when necessary, DNA collection, which upholds the integrity of the facility’s security protocols.
Inmates receive three hot meals daily and clean clothing, bedding, and essential hygiene supplies, demonstrating a commitment to humane treatment and care.
The facility serves various functions, housing individuals awaiting court appearances, pending bond release, serving sentences, or pending transfer to other facilities. Daily operations include managing housing units, facilitating transportation to court, and maintaining various inmate services such as video visitation and religious programs.
These services foster communication between inmates and their families or legal representatives, enhancing their ability to maintain connections during detention.
Healthcare remains a critical component of the White County Detention Center, as it features a dedicated medical area equipped with four cells that can accommodate up to eight individuals requiring medical attention.
The presence of a staff nurse ensures that healthcare services are readily available, aligning with the facility’s core values of responsibility and care. The facility’s operational framework is designed to uphold the highest standards of security and rehabilitation, reflecting its commitment to serving the community effectively.
Sheriff Will Statler’s leadership, along with a structured staff hierarchy, facilitates the smooth operation of the detention center. Personnel roles encompass corrections officers, administrative staff, and medical professionals, working harmoniously to maintain safety and security.
Collectively, these individuals contribute to an environment where accountability and respect are paramount, reinforcing the detention center’s mission to promote public safety while providing necessary care for its detainees.
White County Detention Center
1600 E Booth Road
Searcy, AR 72143
(501) 279-6279
Initial Processing & Booking
Upon arriving at the White County Detention Center, individuals immediately engage in a detailed booking procedure, establishing their official record in the facility’s computer system. This process entails recording essential information such as criminal charges, bond amounts, the details of the arresting agency, and scheduled court dates. Identification protocols are strictly applied, involving precise fingerprinting and capturing photographic images to ensure accurate identification.
During processing, detainees undergo an initial health screening that evaluates their medical and mental health needs. This assessment places a strong emphasis on suicide prevention screening, recognizing the importance of mental well-being in the detention environment. To ensure security, the facility enforces strict mail and postcard requirements for all non-legal correspondence.
Within 14 days of their arrival, detainees receive tuberculosis testing, typically through PPD skin tests, to prevent the spread of communicable diseases. Initial security assessments follow, allowing staff to determine appropriate housing placements based on the detainees’ behavior and history, as well as assessed risks, ensuring safety for both individuals and staff.
Property handling is strictly regulated; personal items are secured upon entry, and detainees are allowed only essential items that comply with facility policies. Communication remains accessible through monitored collect calls from designated dayroom phones, ensuring that detainees can maintain contact with their families and legal representatives. Video visitation is also available, offering a means for social connection, though restrictions apply to attorney-client meetings and specially approved visits.
Rights notification occurs simultaneously; detainees are informed of their rights and the facility’s rules, promoting transparency and understanding of the detention process.
Upon completing these initial steps, individuals receive temporary housing assignments that align with their security classifications, adhering to Federal Performance-based Detention Standards. This careful orchestration of booking, health assessments, property management, rights awareness, and housing assignments establishes a structured environment prioritizing safety, health, and dignity for every individual detained.
Inmate Housing Assignment & Classification Process
Classification integrity is the foundation of the White County Detention Center’s inmate housing assignment process, employing a detailed four-tier system to categorize inmates into Class I, II, III, or IV levels. Each classification level reflects factors such as behavioral history, medical needs, security requirements, and institutional mandates. Evaluations by the Classification Committee occur regularly to assess inmate progress, ensuring that classifications remain relevant and appropriate.
Housing units are specifically designed to accommodate the diverse needs of inmates, with designated areas for those requiring medical attention, mental health support, or protective custody. For instance, inmates with severe medical conditions may be assigned to specialized medical units that provide continuous care and monitoring. In contrast, those needing enhanced security measures find themselves in special management areas. Such strategic assignments facilitate tailored support for each inmate, both physically and psychologically. The facility maintains a least restrictive environment for Class I inmates, similar to minimum security standards.
Inmates can request transfers based on program participation, work assignments, or healthcare needs, though these requests undergo rigorous scrutiny. The Warden, Superintendent, or Center Supervisor can grant or deny these transfer requests, ensuring that all movements align with facility policies and security protocols. Emergency furloughs are also possible for critical family situations, but only under strict conditions, notably differing escort requirements for Class I-A and I-B inmates compared to other classifications.
Movement between classifications hinges on behavioral compliance, program engagement, and demonstrated accountability. Inmates who show significant behavior improvement or complete rehabilitation programs may advance to a lower classification, which typically offers more privileges and access to better housing conditions. Conversely, those who violate rules or exhibit concerning behavior may face reassignment to higher classifications, which have more restrictions.
Housing restrictions and requirements are clearly outlined for each classification level, ensuring that all inmates understand their environment’s specific rules. Class I inmates enjoy the least restrictions, while Class IV inmates face stringent limitations regarding movement and activities.
Safety Protocols & Security Operations
White County Detention Center enforces stringent daily security protocols and procedures to maintain order and safety within its facility, accommodating roughly 380 inmates across fifteen housing units. Deputies conduct regular counts of the inmate population daily, ensuring accurate tracking of all individuals in custody. The facility employs a precise protocol that mandates multiple counts throughout the day, with each count verified against the central database to confirm the presence of inmates at designated times. This rigorous monitoring not only promotes accountability but also deters potential unrest.
The detention center implements proactive prevention and detection strategies to combat contraband infiltration. Staff members conduct thorough searches of housing units and inmate property, employing metal detectors and body scanners to identify prohibited items. The facility maintains a zero-tolerance stance on contraband, regularly training personnel on detection techniques and vigilance during inmate interactions. All visitors must comply with strict dress code guidelines to prevent concealment of contraband.
Additionally, the center employs surveillance equipment, such as high-resolution cameras, strategically placed throughout the facility to monitor inmate movements and identify suspicious behavior that may indicate contraband activity.
Emergency response procedures are meticulously crafted, enabling swift action during critical incidents. The detention center collaborates closely with the White County Office of Emergency Management, ensuring staff are trained in crisis management and emergency evacuation protocols. In a disturbance, deputies can quickly implement lockdown procedures, securing all housing units while coordinating with the control center for effective communication.
This integrated approach enhances the facility’s ability to respond to various emergencies, from medical crises to security breaches.
Movement control remains a key focus, with structured protocols governing inmate transfers within the facility. Deputies accompany inmates during all movements, ensuring compliance with regulations and maintaining a secure environment. Specific routes are designated for transport to minimize contact with other inmate populations, thereby reducing potential conflicts.
The control center plays a pivotal role in tracking these movements, utilizing real-time data to monitor the locations of inmates and staff, which aids in maintaining order and safety.
Search procedures are routinely executed to enhance security further. Staff conduct random searches of housing units, inmate property, and common areas to deter the possession of contraband and maintain a safe environment. These search operations are documented meticulously, with reports generated to track findings and inform future protocols.
The detention center’s commitment to regular inspections ensures that potential risks are identified and mitigated promptly.
Control center operations serve as the nerve center for the facility’s security measures. Trained personnel monitor live feeds from surveillance cameras, coordinate responses to incidents, and manage communication between deputies on the ground and command staff.
This centralized monitoring allows for rapid decision-making and enhances situational awareness, which is crucial during emergencies. Incident reporting and response procedures are standardized, ensuring that every event is documented comprehensively, with follow-up investigations conducted to refine security measures and address any gaps identified during incidents.
The facility utilizes advanced security equipment, including impact-resistant barriers and state-of-the-art communication systems, to bolster its operational effectiveness. Each piece of equipment is strategically deployed to maximize security while facilitating smooth operations.
Staff undergo continuous training on the proper use of this technology, ensuring they are well-prepared to respond to any situation within the facility. By maintaining a high level of preparedness and employing a comprehensive suite of security measures, White County Detention Center upholds its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of inmates, staff, and visitors.
White County AR Jail Inmate Support Services & Development Programs
The White County Jail provides inmates fundamental support services, including medical care in an eight-bed facility, three daily meals, and basic hygiene necessities.
Communication options for inmates encompass video visitation, letter writing, and supervised phone calls through services like Penmate and Securus Messaging.
The facility processes detainees through intake and booking procedures when they first arrive. While direct substance abuse and educational programs within the jail are limited, inmates may access broader rehabilitation services through transfers to Arkansas Department of Corrections facilities, which offer GED programs, mental health services, and substance abuse treatment.
Basic Inmate Services
White County Detention Center ensures detainees have access to essential medical services, with a dedicated medical unit staffed by a qualified nurse. This unit can accommodate up to eight individuals, providing routine medical care and necessary treatments to address the health needs of the inmate population.
In addition to physical health, the facility recognizes the importance of mental health services, offering psychological support and counseling to those who require it. Trained personnel conduct assessments to identify individuals needing specialized care, ensuring that mental well-being is prioritized alongside physical health.
The facility serves three hot meals daily, catering to the nutritional needs of the detainees. Meal services are designed to meet dietary accommodations, including options for those with allergies or specific dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian or low-sodium meals. Each meal comprises well-balanced components, ensuring detainees receive adequate nutrition.
Hygiene and laundry services also play a critical role in maintaining the health and comfort of inmates, as the facility provides clean clothing, bedding, and basic hygiene items, with regular laundry cycles that keep personal items fresh and sanitary.
Commissary operations enhance the daily experience of detainees, allowing them to purchase additional food items, personal care products, and recreational materials. Accessible through a secure system, the commissary enables inmates to select items that may not be provided through standard meal services, fostering a sense of autonomy and choice. Messages and photos from loved ones can be received through inmate tablets or kiosks, providing an essential connection to family and friends.
Religious services further enrich the spiritual lives of detainees, with opportunities for worship and reflection offered through scheduled church services led by visiting chaplains. These gatherings provide a supportive environment for individuals seeking spiritual guidance during incarceration.
Recreation access is prioritized to promote physical health and well-being, with designated areas where detainees can engage in exercise and recreational activities. Structured programs may include outdoor activities, group sports, or individual exercise routines, encouraging inmates to maintain an active lifestyle.
Library services contribute to the intellectual enrichment of the population, as detainees can borrow books and access educational materials, fostering a sense of learning and personal growth. The library becomes a vital resource, allowing individuals to explore various subjects and enhancing knowledge and literacy skills while in detention.
Education & Recovery Programs
At the White County Detention Center, educational programs play a vital role in empowering inmates with knowledge and skills to aid their reintegration into society. Partnerships with external organizations, such as Level, provide specialized courses in entrepreneurship, computer science, and Internet technology, allowing inmates to engage in self-paced learning without needing Internet access. Participants earn certificates upon successful completion of these programs, enhancing their resumes and bolstering their confidence in navigating the job market.
Enrollment in these educational offerings is straightforward, with no waiting lists or restrictions, ensuring that all inmates can pursue their academic goals.
In addition to traditional educational programs, vocational training at the detention center equips inmates with practical skills that can lead to employment upon release. These training programs often align with the specific needs of the local job market, preparing participants for careers in areas such as construction, culinary arts, and technology.
Moreover, the facility emphasizes the importance of substance abuse treatment, recognizing that many inmates struggle with addiction. Behavioral programs are implemented to address mental health issues and substance use disorders, utilizing evidence-based practices to promote recovery and resilience. These programs typically require inmates to demonstrate a willingness to engage in their treatment process, fostering accountability and personal responsibility.
Life skills training further complements the educational framework by teaching inmates essential skills for daily living, including financial literacy, communication, and conflict resolution. Participants learn how to budget, manage their time effectively, and navigate interpersonal relationships, which are crucial for successful reintegration.
Work programs also play a significant role in this rehabilitation process, allowing inmates to gain hands-on experience and earn a small wage while contributing to the facility’s operations. These work assignments instill a sense of responsibility and provide practical job skills that can be invaluable upon release.
Eligibility for these programs typically hinges on an inmate’s behavior and willingness to participate actively. Inmates must demonstrate a commitment to personal development by adhering to facility rules and regulations, which can significantly impact their access to educational and vocational training opportunities.
Completion requirements for programs often involve attendance, participation in activities, and demonstration of the skills learned, ensuring inmates acquire the necessary competencies to succeed post-release. By fostering an environment focused on education and skill-building, White County Detention Center prepares inmates for a brighter future, equipping them with the tools they need to thrive in society.
Communication & Visitation Guidelines
Visitors intending to see inmates at the White County Arkansas Jail must adhere to a structured visitation schedule and approval process to ensure a successful visit. Scheduled visitation occurs on Saturdays and Sundays, divided into two-time slots: from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Inmates classified as Class I are eligible for one visit per week, translating to a maximum of four to five visits monthly. In contrast, inmates in Classes II through IV are restricted to two monthly visits. During each visitation session, an inmate may host up to four visitors, with the stipulation that only two of those visitors can be adults if the limit is exceeded.
Potential visitors must submit an appointment request via the online portal at telegov.egov.com/docrequest to initiate the visitation process. This request undergoes a review by the Unit Visitation Clerk, who conducts mandatory criminal history checks on all applicants to ensure compliance with facility regulations. Visitors should anticipate a processing timeframe, so early submission of requests is advisable.
Maintaining proper conduct during visits is paramount. Visitors aged 12 and older must present a state-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license or state ID. Minors must always be accompanied by approved adults on the visitor list. Non-compliance with the facility’s rules, including violations of the dress code or any misconduct, may lead to immediate termination of the visit and potential loss of visitation privileges.
Special provisions exist for visitors traveling more than 300 miles to see an inmate. These visitors may schedule weekday visits, provided they give 24-hour advance notice. In addition to in-person visits, the facility offers video visitation options, which require a 48-hour scheduling notice for arrangements to be made.
The jail also facilitates communication through mail and telephone systems. Inmates can send and receive mail, which must adhere to specific guidelines regarding content and packaging. For telephone communication, inmates can access the facility’s phone system to maintain contact with approved individuals. Each inmate is assigned a unique PIN (Personal Identification Number) for secure phone calls, ensuring privacy and security during communications.
Furthermore, electronic communication options enable inmates to send messages through approved platforms. These electronic communications offer an efficient alternative to traditional mail, allowing quicker exchanges while adhering to facility regulations. Each communication method requires adherence to the established guidelines to ensure that all interactions remain respectful and within the confines of the jail’s policies.
Inmate Legal Resources & Protected Rights
Inmates at the White County Arkansas Jail possess fundamental legal rights that ensure their protection and dignity within the facility. These rights encompass freedom from unreasonable searches and seizures, safeguarding individuals from invasive actions that lack justification. Inmates also maintain the right to be free from physical brutality, a crucial aspect of humane treatment, and they are entitled to receive adequate medical care for severe health conditions, ensuring that their physical well-being is prioritized while incarcerated.
When grievances arise, inmates can utilize established grievance procedures to formally report violations or concerns, thus seeking resolution through appropriate channels. This process empowers inmates and fosters a sense of accountability within the facility.
Access to legal resources remains vital for inmates as they navigate their rights and responsibilities. The jail provides a law library with legal texts and reference materials, enabling inmates to conduct legal research and prepare the necessary documentation. Inmates can also obtain legal forms facilitating various legal actions, including filing complaints or motions.
Authorized jailhouse lawyers, trained to assist fellow inmates, offer invaluable guidance in document preparation, ensuring that individuals can effectively advocate for their rights. In addition, the Jailhouse Lawyer’s Handbook serves as a practical guide, providing insights into the legal process and helping inmates understand their options.
Court appearance procedures are clearly outlined to ensure that inmates can present their cases in legal settings. The jail coordinates transportation to court, adhering to schedules that align with court dates, thereby minimizing delays in the legal process. Inmates must comply with specific protocols regarding attire and behavior during court appearances to maintain decorum and respect for the judicial system.
Moreover, attorney visits are facilitated with designated areas that ensure confidentiality and privacy, allowing inmates to discuss their legal matters openly. Attorneys are permitted to meet with their clients regularly, providing necessary legal counsel and representation, which is crucial for inmates seeking to navigate the complexities of the law.
Bail bond information is readily available to inmates and their families, providing clarity on the process for securing release before trial. The facility outlines the requirements for obtaining a bail bond, including the need for a licensed bail bondsman who can assist in posting the bail amount set by the court.
Inmates can access resources that explain how bail amounts are determined based on the nature of the charges, the inmate’s criminal history, and flight risk assessments. Understanding these factors helps inmates and their families make informed decisions regarding their legal options, contributing to a more transparent and accessible legal process.
White County AR Public Defender & District Attorney
The legal landscape in White County, Arkansas, is shaped by two essential offices: the Public Defender’s office and the District Attorney’s office.
The Public Defender’s office, established in 1991 under the Arkansas Public Defender Commission (APDC), operates from 301 W Arch Ave, Searcy, AR 72143 and can be reached at (501) 268-1828. This office plays a critical role in safeguarding the constitutional rights of indigent defendants who cannot afford private legal representation.
Individuals seeking assistance must navigate the application process through the court office, where eligibility is assessed based on income and available resources. The APDC oversees this office, ensuring adherence to protocols for representation and maintaining high-quality standards in public defense services.
Conversely, the District Attorney’s office, located at 2407 Taylor St, Searcy, AR 72143, with a contact number of (501) 279-6236, serves as the prosecutorial arm of the government within the judicial circuit system.
This office collaborates closely with law enforcement agencies to manage various criminal cases, ranging from minor misdemeanors to serious violent crimes, including DUI offenses. The District Attorney’s office communicates primarily through defense counsel, a practice designed to uphold defendants’ rights and explore potential benefits in their cases.
Both the Public Defender’s and District Attorney’s offices function within the White County court system, working in tandem to ensure legal proceedings are conducted fairly and justice is upheld for all parties involved.
This collaborative effort is vital for maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of the legal system in the region.
Release & Community Preparation
Upon release from White County Jail, individuals enter a structured release planning process crucial for their successful reintegration into society. However, this process often unfolds under the constraints of a strict time-of-arrest release schedule, which does not consider the availability of transportation or adverse weather conditions. While the State Board of Probation and Parole oversees many aspects of post-release supervision, the lack of a community-driven release timetable can complicate the transition for many individuals.
Inmates frequently rely on limited communication options, such as collect calls or “Smart Jail Mail,” to coordinate their release logistics, leading to uncertainty and confusion.
To effectively complete their re-entry, inmates must meet specific program completion requirements designed to prepare them for life outside of incarceration. Many facilities across Arkansas, approximately half of which offer structured support programs, emphasize the importance of these requirements.
Successful participants often engage in educational initiatives that enhance life skills and job readiness while also fulfilling conditions set forth by probation or parole. These programs help individuals gain essential skills and facilitate connections to community resources that can provide further assistance.
Community resource connections play a vital role in the re-entry process, helping individuals access post-release services critical for their stability. Organizations and local charities often fill service gaps, supplying necessities such as clothing and blankets to those who have just been released.
Employment assistance programs, including job training workshops and placement services, empower individuals to secure stable jobs, which are fundamental to financial independence. Many of these programs collaborate with local businesses to provide job opportunities, enhancing the likelihood of successful employment.
Housing assistance emerges as another critical component of the reintegration journey. Released inmates frequently face challenges in securing stable housing, making it essential for them to connect with local housing agencies that can provide support.
These agencies often work closely with community organizations to offer transitional housing options, ensuring that individuals have a safe place to stay while they stabilize their lives. Continued treatment options, particularly for substance abuse and mental health, are also essential to support the ongoing recovery process.
Many community programs offer access to counselors and support groups, which can be pivotal for individuals striving to avoid relapse.
Family reunification support stands out as a crucial factor in the reintegration process, as maintaining healthy relationships with family can significantly influence an individual’s success. Programs that facilitate communication and interaction between released individuals and their families can help repair relationships that may have suffered during incarceration.
White County AR Jail Performance Metrics & Compliance Reports
White County Detention Center implements rigorous operational standards that focus on maintaining safety and efficiency within its 380-bed facility, which houses an average daily population of 321 inmates. The center operates under strict agreements with the U.S. Marshals Service, ensuring that services meet federally mandated benchmarks. The facility allocates its budget effectively by maintaining a federal per-diem rate of $47.50 while ensuring compliance with federal performance-based detention standards, state regulations, and local laws. This strategic financial management enables the detention center to sustain operational needs while minimizing costs.
Compliance monitoring remains a top priority, with the facility adhering to critical regulations such as the Prison Rape Elimination Act and the Service Contract Act. The detention center employs a robust framework for documentation, submitting monthly invoices that detail all provided services, thus ensuring transparency and accountability.
Using the Detention Services Network for information management, the facility streamlines its operations and enhances its ability to track compliance metrics effectively. This system helps identify success and potential improvement areas, facilitating a proactive approach to maintaining standards.
Incident statistics reveal the effectiveness of the facility in managing its population, with a notable arrest rate of 1,167.00 per 100,000 residents, which exceeds the national average by 57.91%. In 2017, the center documented 146 violent crime arrests and 779 property crime arrests, highlighting larceny/theft as the most frequent offense. These statistics reflect the community’s crime dynamics and inform the center’s programming and resource allocation.
By analyzing incident data, the facility can tailor its operational strategies, ensuring that the programs implemented effectively address the needs of the inmate population.
Program success rates are evaluated continuously, with the detention center focusing on rehabilitative initiatives that foster inmate development. These programs aim to reduce recidivism (the tendency of previously incarcerated individuals to re-offend) by providing education and vocational training opportunities, thereby enhancing inmates’ chances of successful reintegration into society.
Staff training is integral to this effort, as employees receive ongoing education on best practices for inmate interaction and crisis management. By investing in staff development, the facility ensures that personnel are equipped to handle diverse situations while promoting a safe environment.
Population management strategies at the White County Detention Center emphasize a balanced approach to housing inmates, maintaining a demographic distribution of 76% male and 24% female across eleven male pods and four female dorms. This distribution allows for tailored programming that meets the unique needs of different populations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Length of Stay for Inmates at White County Jail?
While specific average length of stay data for White County Jail is unavailable, comparable local jails average 32 days, with males staying 36 days and females 19 days nationally.
Are There Specific Programs Available for Veterans Incarcerated at White County Jail?
Based on available information, White County Jail does not offer specific veteran-focused programs. Veterans have access to standard jail services, while VA programs and county veteran services provide external support.
How Many Correctional Officers Are Employed at White County Jail?
Based on the available background information, the number of correctional officers employed at White County Jail is not publicly disclosed, though the facility operates 24/7 to manage its 380 inmate capacity.
What Is the Annual Operating Budget for White County Jail?
Based on the provided background information, the specific annual operating budget figure for White County Jail is not directly stated in the available documentation. However, funding comes from local taxes and state reimbursements.
Does White County Jail Offer Work Release Programs for Eligible Inmates?
Based on available information, White County Jail does not explicitly offer work release programs. Work release programs in Arkansas are administered through the Department of Corrections at six designated state facilities.