The Yell County Jail, located at 106 Union Street in Dardanelle, Arkansas, operates under Sheriff Bill Gilkey’s supervision as a 24-bed detention facility. The jail processes approximately 2,600 arrests annually, providing comprehensive services, including medical screenings, mental health support, and rehabilitation programs. Inmates receive structured classification, housing assignments, and access to educational opportunities such as GED preparation and vocational training. The facility maintains strict security protocols, offering crucial services like legal resources, grievance procedures, and substance abuse treatment. The jail’s operations encompass multiple aspects of inmate care, rehabilitation, and community reintegration that warrant detailed examination.
Yell County AR Jail Operations & Overview
The Yell County Jail operates under the oversight of the Yell County Sheriff’s Office, currently led by Sheriff Bill Gilkey. Located at 106 Union Street in Dardanelle, Arkansas, this facility is the county’s primary detention center, handling a diverse inmate population within its 24-bed capacity.
This secure environment accommodates pre-trial detainees and those convicted of lesser offenses, specifically individuals serving sentences of less than one year. Inmates facing longer sentences are promptly transferred to state or federal correctional institutions, ultimately under the jurisdiction of the Arkansas Department of Corrections. With 2,600 yearly arrests in the county, the facility maintains efficient processing procedures to manage the steady flow of incoming detainees.
In terms of operational policies, the jail employs a rigorous classification system that effectively separates inmates based on gender, criminal history, and safety risks. This strategic approach enhances security and promotes the welfare of staff and inmates, minimizing potential conflicts.
Round-the-clock staffing ensures continuous supervision and support, facilitating essential services such as medical screenings, transportation for court appearances, and emergency response procedures. The jail’s physical layout includes secure areas designed for various inmate activities while maintaining strict safety protocols that protect facility inhabitants.
The staff comprises trained correctional officers and support personnel who collectively uphold the facility’s core values and standards, focusing on safety, rehabilitation, and community engagement.
Staff members actively facilitate various support services and rehabilitative programs to reduce inmate recidivism rates. These programs include Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, counseling sessions, religious services, and educational opportunities that encourage personal growth. Recreational activities also play a critical role in inmate well-being, fostering a positive atmosphere within the correctional environment.
Inmates receive essential resources, including nutritious meals, laundry services, and hygiene items, which ensure their basic needs are met while residing in the facility. By maintaining these fundamental provisions, the Yell County Jail aligns its operations to promote rehabilitation and prepare inmates for successful reintegration into society upon release.
The comprehensive management protocols reflect the commitment to maintaining a secure facility that prioritizes the community’s safety and the welfare of those incarcerated.
Yell County Jail
106 Union Street
Dardanelle, AR 72834
(479) 229-4175
Initial Processing & Booking
Everyone entering the Yell County Jail at 106 Union Street in Dardanelle must navigate a structured booking procedure that efficiently verifies identity, assesses charges, and determines bail status. This comprehensive process spans from one hour to 48 hours, encompassing essential actions designed to ensure thorough documentation and the safety of all inmates. Staff members initiate the booking process by collecting vital personal information and identifying the specific charges against the individual.
As part of the initial health screening, each arrestee undergoes a meticulous medical evaluation to identify any urgent health concerns, including assessing physical injuries or existing medical conditions. This screening integrates a medical history review and basic health checks, such as blood pressure and pulse rate, ensuring that those with immediate health needs receive appropriate care. Like Jefferson County’s facility, a staff physician oversees all medical evaluations and treatments.
Alongside this, a security assessment is conducted to evaluate any potential risks posed by the individual, which aids in determining the most suitable temporary housing assignment within the facility.
Property handling protocols are swiftly implemented upon arrival, where personal belongings are documented and stored securely. This step is critical, as it safeguards the individual’s items while in custody, ensuring that nothing is lost or damaged during the booking process.
Each arrestee is then informed of their constitutional rights, including the right to remain silent and consult legal counsel before discussing their arrest or charges. This notification is crucial, as it reinforces their legal protections throughout their time in the facility.
Following these initial steps, the booking protocol includes fingerprinting, DNA sampling, and photographing the individual to create an accurate and permanent record. The facility also conducts a mental health evaluation, which aims to identify any psychological needs that may require immediate attention. This assessment complements the physical health checks, ensuring a holistic approach to inmate well-being.
The results of the security and health evaluations help determine appropriate housing assignments, allowing staff to place individuals in areas that prioritize their safety and the safety of others within the jail.
With these procedures in place, arrestees may either be released without bail, remain in custody until their court date, or secure their release through the posting of bail or bond, contingent upon the specifics of their case and the judicial determinations made.
Throughout this intricate process, the facility staff remains available to provide information regarding bail options and booking status, ensuring that individuals are well-informed and supported during their initial intake at the Yell County Jail.
Inmate Housing Assignment & Classification Process
Upon entering Yell County Jail, inmates are assigned a Class II status for their initial sixty days, during which a comprehensive assessment process evaluates critical classification criteria. These criteria encompass age, gender, current offense, custody requirements, and any specific medical or mental health considerations, ensuring that each inmate’s unique needs are addressed.
The classification committee utilizes structured assessment instruments to determine suitable placements in vocational, educational, and treatment programs, adhering to federal guidelines prohibiting discrimination based on race, ethnicity, or religious preference. The committee aims to maintain good discipline and efficiency through regular classification meetings.
Housing assignments reflect the facility’s commitment to strict separation requirements, particularly concerning gender segregation. For example, male and female inmates reside in distinctly designated areas, while vulnerable populations, such as juveniles or individuals classified as civil inmates, occupy specialized housing units designed to meet their unique needs.
Inmates requiring protective custody, administrative segregation, or medical housing experience physical separation from the general population, promoting safety and security within the facility.
As circumstances evolve, the classification review process allows for periodic reassessment of inmates’ statuses, ensuring that housing assignments align with the facility’s overarching safety and operational efficiency goals.
Inmates guilty of rule violations may experience immediate changes in their classification status, leading to reduced privileges, alterations to housing assignments, or adjustments in good time credit earnings. Such measures underscore the facility’s commitment to upholding discipline while providing inmates with opportunities for rehabilitation.
Movement between classifications occurs based on behavioral assessments, facility rules compliance, and assigned program participation. Inmates who demonstrate positive behavior and actively engage in rehabilitation efforts may be considered for reclassification to a lower security level, allowing for increased privileges and access to more diverse housing options.
Conversely, inmates exhibiting disruptive behavior face restrictions and may be reassigned to more secure units, emphasizing the facility’s focus on maintaining order and safety.
Housing restrictions and requirements further delineate the conditions under which inmates reside, with each housing unit designed to cater to specific classifications and needs.
For instance, inmates assigned to minimum security units experience fewer restrictions and more freedom of movement within the facility. In contrast, those in maximum security units encounter stringent limitations to ensure heightened security.
Safety Protocols & Security Operations
Daily security protocols at Yell County Jail involve systematic procedures designed to ensure the safety of both staff and inmates. Officers conduct routine counts, verifying the presence of every juvenile in designated areas at least three times a day and using handheld devices to enhance accuracy and efficiency.
Movement control remains a priority, with staff monitoring inmate transitions between areas using established routes to minimize potential risks and maintain order within the facility. Officers remain vigilant during these movements, enforcing strict guidelines that dictate when and how inmates can interact with each other to prevent disturbances.
Contraband prevention and detection are critical components of these protocols. Staff utilize handheld metal detectors and surveillance cameras strategically placed throughout the facility to identify and intercept prohibited items. Regular searches of common areas and individual cells occur weekly, where officers thoroughly inspect for drugs, weapons, or any unauthorized materials.
In addition to these proactive measures, staff receive training on behavior observation to recognize signs of contraband possession, enhancing overall detection capabilities. The facility previously used the Wrap Restraint System on juveniles until its practice was discontinued following concerns about its punitive nature.
Emergency response procedures integrate seamlessly into the daily operations, with the Office of Emergency Management coordinating training exercises biannually. These drills simulate various crisis scenarios, allowing staff to practice their response protocols, which include secure lockdown procedures and evacuation routes.
The control center operates as the nerve center during emergencies, monitoring all facility activities through sophisticated surveillance feeds, enabling swift decision-making and communication with first responders when necessary.
Incident reporting and response mechanisms ensure that any security breach or unusual behavior is documented and addressed immediately. Officers are trained to complete detailed reports within 24 hours of an incident, capturing vital information such as the nature of the incident, involved parties, and response actions taken.
This documentation feeds into the facility’s broader incident review process, which assesses patterns and develops strategies to mitigate future occurrences.
The use of security equipment is integral to maintaining a safe environment. Officers utilize body cameras, which record interactions and incidents, providing transparency and accountability.
Additionally, the facility employs access control systems that restrict entry to sensitive areas, using biometric scanners to verify staff identities. Each piece of equipment is pivotal in reinforcing the security framework, ensuring protocols are followed, and effectively upholding safety standards.
Through implementing these structured procedures and the staff’s commitment, Yell County Jail continues to foster a secure environment conducive to rehabilitation while adhering to Arkansas Juvenile Detention Standards.
Yell County AR Jail Inmate Support Services & Development Programs
Yell County Jail provides comprehensive support services for inmates, including electronic communication options through tablets and kiosks for receiving letters and photos from family members.
The facility offers crucial development programs through the Arkansas Department of Corrections, encompassing mental health services, substance abuse education, and case management for inmates with specific needs. Messages sent through electronic messaging services typically reach inmates within 24-48 hours of sending.
These programs are complemented by transition planning services and community partnerships focusing on rehabilitation and successful social reintegration.
Basic Inmate Services
The Yell County Jail prioritizes the health and well-being of its inmates by ensuring comprehensive medical services and access. Inmates receive timely medical attention through a dedicated healthcare team that provides routine check-ups, emergency care, and chronic disease management. This includes a robust protocol for addressing urgent medical needs, where inmates can request care through a simple process facilitated by trained staff.
The facility also emphasizes preventative health measures, ensuring all inmates undergo health screenings upon intake and have access to essential vaccinations.
In tandem with physical health care, the jail recognizes the importance of mental health services. Licensed mental health professionals conduct regular assessments and offer therapeutic sessions to address issues such as anxiety, depression, and trauma. Inmates can access counseling voluntarily, fostering a supportive environment conducive to emotional healing while adhering to confidentiality standards.
The facility provides crisis intervention services, ensuring that inmates experiencing acute distress receive immediate assistance and referrals to specialized treatment programs when necessary. Inmates can access secure messaging services through City Telecoin to communicate their mental health needs electronically.
Meal services at the facility adhere to dietary guidelines, delivering nutritionally balanced meals three times a day, which total approximately 2,800 calories per inmate daily. Menus accommodate specific nutritional needs, including vegetarian options and allergen-free meals, ensuring that all inmates maintain their health through proper nutrition.
Staff carefully oversee meal preparation, adhering to sanitation standards to mitigate any health risks. Additionally, inmates can purchase supplemental snacks and personal items through commissary operations, which operate weekly, allowing for a limited selection to enhance their quality of life during incarceration.
Hygiene and laundry services play a critical role in inmate care, with each inmate provided with personal hygiene products, including soap, toothpaste, and sanitary supplies. The facility schedules regular laundry services, ensuring inmates receive clean clothing and linens weekly, promoting cleanliness and dignity.
These provisions contribute to a healthier living environment, reducing the risk of communicable diseases.
Religious services are readily available, allowing inmates to engage in spiritual practices. The jail hosts weekly worship services led by volunteer chaplains, providing guidance and support to those seeking spiritual nourishment.
Inmates can also request individual counseling with chaplains, ensuring that diverse faith practices are respected and accommodated within the facility.
Recreation access is integral to maintaining physical and mental health, with inmates allowed to participate in structured activities such as sports, exercise classes, and outdoor recreation for at least one hour each day. This access promotes physical fitness and aids in stress relief and social interaction among inmates.
Furthermore, the facility provides library services, offering a selection of books, legal materials, and educational resources that support inmates’ personal development and legal understanding. Inmates can request titles through a simple form, fostering a love for reading and enabling them to enhance their knowledge while incarcerated.
Through these comprehensive services, the Yell County Jail underscores its commitment to promoting the overall well-being of inmates, preparing them for successful reintegration into society upon release.
Education & Recovery Programs
Yell County Jail implements various educational programs to enhance inmates’ knowledge and skills, mainly focusing on those lacking high school diplomas. The facility offers GED preparation classes that provide inmates with the necessary resources and guidance to achieve their educational goals, equipping them with critical credentials to significantly improve their job prospects upon release.
Alongside these academic opportunities, vocational training emerges as a vital component, with programs such as horticulture that teach practical skills and prepare inmates for specific careers within the agricultural industry, which can be particularly beneficial in rural areas.
Substance abuse treatment is interwoven throughout the facility’s programming, addressing the pervasive issue of addiction that often contributes to criminal behavior. Inmates participate in structured recovery programs that employ evidence-based practices to help individuals confront their substance use challenges. These programs not only focus on abstinence but also emphasize coping strategies and relapse prevention techniques.
Eligibility for these programs typically requires an assessment of the inmate’s specific needs, ensuring that each participant receives tailored support that aligns with their recovery objectives.
Behavioral programs play a crucial role in fostering positive interpersonal skills and emotional regulation among inmates. These initiatives often include group therapy sessions where participants engage in discussions that promote self-awareness and accountability. Inmates demonstrate their commitment to personal growth by adhering to completion requirements that may consist of regular attendance and active participation in discussions.
This focus on behavioral change enhances the likelihood of successful reintegration into society.
Life skills training complements educational and vocational efforts, providing inmates with essential competencies for everyday living. Classes cover various topics, including parenting, effective communication, budgeting, and job preparation, equipping individuals with the tools to navigate post-incarceration life successfully.
Inmates must meet specific eligibility criteria to enroll, often including demonstrating a willingness to participate actively and a commitment to personal development.
Work programs further enhance rehabilitation, allowing inmates to gain practical work experience while contributing to operations. These programs often involve tasks such as facility maintenance or community service projects, providing inmates with a sense of responsibility and accomplishment.
Completion of work programs typically requires consistent attendance and adherence to workplace standards, thereby instilling a strong work ethic and discipline.
Communication & Visitation Guidelines
At Yell County Jail, visitors engage in various types of visits, including in-person, video, and electronic communication, all regulated by a structured schedule. In-person visits occur in designated time slots lasting 30 minutes, allowing inmates to maintain essential connections while adhering to safety protocols. Electronic visits, facilitated through designated kiosks and tablets, offer an additional means of communication, yet these are subject to prior funding arrangements through a sanctioned third-party provider.
To gain access to the facility, visitors must navigate the approval process, which includes submitting a request for visitation alongside valid government identification. This pre-approval must be secured before arrival. Visitors undergo a comprehensive background check, which is integral to maintaining the security and order of the facility. Upon arrival, visitors check in with the required documentation, ensuring all protocols are followed.
Visitor conduct remains paramount during all interactions. The facility enforces a strict dress code, mandating that individuals wear appropriate attire, which excludes any items that may pose security risks. Additionally, visitors must exhibit respectful behavior throughout their visit, as any misconduct could lead to immediate revocation of visitation privileges.
Provisions for special visits exist to accommodate unique circumstances, such as legal representatives needing to consult with inmates. These arrangements require prior approval and may deviate from standard visitation schedules to facilitate essential legal communications effectively.
For visitors bringing children under the age of 18, specific juvenile visitation protocols apply. Adult guardians must accompany minors, ensuring their understanding of the facility’s rules and expectations. The presence of children encourages a family connection, but it remains essential that guardians monitor behavior and compliance with all visitation guidelines.
In addition to in-person interactions, inmates can receive and send mail, which must comply with established mail procedures. All correspondence is subject to inspection by staff to maintain safety.
The facility also provides a telephone system, allowing inmates to place calls to approved contacts, further enhancing their ability to communicate with the outside world.
Electronic communication options, such as secure messaging, allow for additional correspondence between inmates and their families or friends. However, all messages, including video content, undergo staff review to ensure compliance with security protocols.
These various communication avenues work together to uphold order while allowing inmates to maintain critical connections with their loved ones.
Inmate Legal Resources & Protected Rights
At Yell County Jail, inmates enjoy essential legal rights that protect their interests during incarceration, grounded in constitutional guarantees. These rights encompass access to legal representation and allow inmates to meet with their attorneys regularly, which is crucial for preparing their defense in court. They can schedule private visits with legal counsel, ensuring the confidentiality of discussions that are vital for their case. This access is particularly important, as inmates often navigate complex legal situations requiring informed guidance and advocacy.
Inmates also have procedures to file grievances when encountering issues related to their rights or treatment within the facility. This process allows them to formally document complaints about conditions, treatment, or perceived rights violations, ensuring their concerns receive the attention necessary to uphold their dignity and legal protections. The administration is committed to addressing these grievances promptly, fostering an environment where inmates feel empowered to speak up without fear of retaliation.
Access to legal resources is a fundamental aspect of the inmates’ rights, and Yell County Jail provides a law library equipped with essential legal materials. This library includes case law, statutes, and legal reference books, enabling inmates to conduct legal research and better understand their rights and options. By facilitating this access, the facility supports inmates in preparing for their court appearances, where presenting a well-informed defense can significantly impact the outcomes of their cases.
When it comes time for court appearances, the jail coordinates transportation to ensure inmates arrive on schedule for their hearings. This procedure is critical, as timely attendance is necessary to avoid complications or delays in the legal process. The facility prioritizes the logistics of these transport arrangements, demonstrating a commitment to the inmates’ legal obligations and rights.
In addition to legal representation and court access, inmates can communicate with bail bondsmen to discuss options for securing their release. The facility allows inmates to make necessary phone calls related to bail bonds, allowing them to arrange financial assistance that can lead to their release while awaiting trial. This access to bail bond services is vital, as it offers inmates a pathway to regain their freedom during the legal process.
Yell County AR Public Defender & District Attorney
The legal landscape in Yell County is shaped significantly by two essential offices that play pivotal roles in the criminal justice system, each serving distinct yet interrelated functions.
The District Attorney’s office, led by P.A. Tom Tatum II, administers legal prosecutions within the 15th Judicial District, encompassing Yell, Logan, Scott, and Conway Counties. This office actively oversees criminal cases, ensuring that justice is pursued diligently while managing drug task force initiatives and facilitating communication between victims and witnesses throughout the legal journey.
The office can be reached at:
Mailing Address: PO Box 1599, Danville, AR 72833
Phone: (479) 495-2649
Contrastingly, the Arkansas Public Defender Commission, instituted by Act 956 in 1991, safeguards the constitutional right to legal counsel for indigent defendants in Yell County. The Commission guarantees consistent and quality legal representation statewide by maintaining centralized administration and funding.
This collaboration extends to local offices and private attorneys, who collectively strive to uphold the Sixth Amendment right to counsel, ensuring that all individuals receive a competent defense regardless of means. The Public Defender’s office actively engages in training programs for attorneys and promotes fairness in the criminal process, thereby enhancing the overall integrity of the justice system.
For assistance, individuals can contact the office at:
Morrilton, AR 72110
(501) 354-9018
The District Attorney’s and Public Defender’s offices function within a framework that emphasizes their unique responsibilities while recognizing their interdependence in pursuing justice.
The District Attorney focuses on prosecution, including managing specialized programs such as the hot check program, which addresses financial crimes. In contrast, the Public Defender prioritizes providing effective legal defense to those in need.
This duality ensures that the rights of the accused are respected while allowing for the systematic enforcement of the law. Such an arrangement fosters a dynamic legal environment where the principles of justice and representation coexist, allowing for a comprehensive approach to criminal proceedings in Yell County.
Release & Community Preparation
Successful reintegration into society is initiated with a detailed release planning process at Yell County Jail, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive preparation. This process requires the completion of specific program requirements, including participation in rehabilitation programs tailored to address the needs of individuals preparing for release. The ARORA Pre-Release Assessment is pivotal in evaluating each individual’s readiness, determining eligibility for community supervision, and crafting an effective plan that aligns with their unique circumstances and needs.
Establishing stable housing emerges as a crucial element for successful reentry. Community Supervision Officers actively engage in in-home visits to assess the suitability of proposed living arrangements, ensuring they meet the necessary criteria. Property owners must submit written consent for offenders to reside in their homes, coupled with an agreement to comply with warrantless search conditions, part of the supervision framework.
Each arrangement undergoes scrutiny by the Post-Prison Transfer Board, which reviews all documentation before final approval, ensuring a structured and secure environment for the individual’s transition. Upon receiving approval, the Division of Correction Records Department conducts thorough release checks to confirm the absence of pending detainers or charges, ensuring a smooth transition into the community.
Transportation coordination follows, offering options such as family pickup or supervised bus transport to ensure individuals arrive safely at their new residences. This systematic approach reflects the commitment to a seamless transition, where individuals can begin to rebuild their lives promptly upon release.
Post-release services extend beyond initial housing arrangements, encompassing a range of community resource connections that individuals can leverage for support. Employment assistance programs actively help individuals secure job placements, providing training and resources to enhance employability.
With statistics indicating that gainful employment significantly reduces recidivism rates, these programs play a vital role in fostering stability and independence. Housing assistance programs further complement this by connecting individuals to affordable housing options, ensuring they have a safe and supportive environment as they navigate their reintegration journey.
Continued treatment options remain essential for individuals working through personal challenges. Access to mental health services, substance abuse programs, and counseling facilitates ongoing recovery and personal growth. Family reunification support also emerges as a fundamental aspect of reintegration, with resources to repair relationships and foster a supportive home environment.
By engaging families in the transition, individuals are more likely to experience a successful reintegration, as strong familial ties can provide emotional support and stability. The State Board of Probation and Parole oversees this process, ensuring compliance with supervision conditions while working collaboratively with Community Supervision Officers.
This partnership enhances the effectiveness of the reentry strategy, as both organizations commit to reducing recidivism and supporting individuals in their journey toward becoming productive members of society. Their efforts underscore the importance of creating a robust framework for reintegration that provides individuals with the resources, support, and opportunities necessary for lasting success.
Yell County AR Jail Performance Metrics & Compliance Reports
Yell County Jail operates under a set of performance standards that reveal a composite score of 58% across four critical evaluation areas. This score reflects the facility’s mixed performance, particularly in its incident statistics, where a police violence rate of 63% indicates a relatively controlled use of force during arrests.
However, the accountability measures fall significantly short, with a score of just 32%, highlighting a pressing need for improvements in the handling of misconduct complaints.
Monitoring compliance with state regulations remains a priority for the facility, as it aligns with the directives the Association of Arkansas Counties set forth. This rigorous oversight ensures that the jail adheres to operational standards, utilizing a cost-allocation strategy that correlates directly with the inmate population.
The jail maintains transparency in its budgeting processes by tracking direct expenditures, such as salaries, utilities, and food costs, separately from depreciation and overhead.
In managing its population, the jail currently accommodates an average of 50 inmates, translating to an incarceration rate of 4 per 1,000 residents, higher than 33% of similar sheriff’s departments. This statistic raises questions about the efficiency of the facility’s programs, especially considering that 59% of all arrests pertain to low-level offenses.
Concurrently, the department grapples with challenges in violent crime resolution, as evidenced by one unsolved case among ten homicides recorded between 2013 and 2021, illustrating the ongoing need for effective crime-solving initiatives.
Staff training is crucial in enhancing operational effectiveness, as the facility employs 16 officers per 1,000 population, surpassing the staffing levels of 28% of comparable departments.
This higher staffing ratio suggests a commitment to providing adequate oversight and support for officers in their duties. By prioritizing comprehensive training programs, the jail aims to bolster its operational standards, improve accountability, and ultimately enhance community trust in law enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Wear When Visiting an Inmate at Yell County Jail?
When visiting an inmate, wear conservative clothing: full-length pants, closed-toe shoes with low heels, modest shirts with sleeves, and minimal jewelry. Avoid exposing clothes, graphics, or prison-like attire.
Are There Any Hotels or Lodging Near Yell County Jail?
While Danville has limited accommodations, nearby Russellville and Dardanelle offer various lodging options, including hotels, vacation rentals, and cabins, typically within 15-30 miles of the location.
How Can I Arrange Transportation to and From Yell County Jail?
Transportation to the jail can be arranged via personal vehicle, local taxi services, or public buses. Contact local transportation providers for schedules and rates. Advanced planning is strongly recommended.
What Local Bail Bond Companies Service Yell County Jail?
Several licensed companies service Yell County Jail, including Bail Bonds Arkansas, T-Gard Bail Bonds, J.E. Bonding, Bryce’s Bail Bonding, and Spencer Bonding. All provide 24/7 assistance and accept various payment options.
Is There a Commissary Limit on How Much Money I Can Deposit?
The monthly commissary spending limit ranges from $200-300, with a maximum of $200 per purchase. Contact the jail directly at 479-495-4878 to confirm current limits and deposit procedures.