Page 41 - 2018 WCSO ANNUAL REPORT HTML5 ONLY
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MANAGING CHANGE
AND PLANNING FOR
THE FUTURE
Operating the only jail in a county of just over
600,000 residents is challenging. With only
572 beds available and over 18,000 annual
bookings, keeping the “right” offenders in jail
requires a thoughtful systems approach with
quality care and services. The capacity of the
jail has not increased since 2000 when the
population was just shy of 450,000 residents.
Jail staff collaborate with criminal justice
partners to ensure limited bed space is used in
the most efficient, just and fair manner. The jail
is also responsible for providing security to all
of the Circuit Court Judges and courtrooms.
Our jail staff works faithfully around the clock
to ensure Washington County’s only jail is safe
and secure for the public, staff and inmates.
The area’s first jail was built in 1853. Four jails
and 165 years later, our jail staff prides itself
in dedication and compassion. In addition to
processing over 50 new bookings and releases
daily, the jail houses individuals awaiting trial
or serving a sentence less than 365 days. A
common response during jail tours is how
different the jail seems compared to what you
may see on TV or movies. The WCSO Jail is a
WASHINGTON COUNTY’S comprehensive system designed for safety,
where individuals are well cared for and receive
ONLY JAIL extensive medical care, mental health services,
education, work experience and many other
life improvement and pro-social programs.

