Jefferson County NY Correctional Facility

The Jefferson County Correctional Facility, established in 1992, is a 196-bed direct supervision institution dedicated to serving the residents of Jefferson County by providing a secure environment for the lawful detention and housing of inmates. In addition to confinement, the facility also manages the transportation of inmates to legal proceedings, other correctional facilities, and designated locations as required.

Staffed by a team of two lieutenants, six sergeants, and sixty-six full-time officers, the Jefferson County Correctional Facility operates on principles of fairness, justice, and equality, ensuring that all inmates are treated humanely, regardless of race, gender, religion, or age. The facility places a strong emphasis on rehabilitation, education, and the humane treatment of those in its care, striving to prepare inmates for successful reintegration into society.

As a direct supervision facility, the Jefferson County Correctional Facility employs a system of reward and discipline to promote better inmate behavior and reduce instances of violence, noise, vandalism, and staff harassment compared to traditional jail setups. This approach encourages a culture of accountability and responsibility, which is pivotal for inmate rehabilitation. Staff empowerment is fundamental to the success of direct supervision jails, with officers authorized to make informed decisions within established guidelines, leading to improved job satisfaction and operational efficiency.

The facility comprises six housing units, or "pods," each accommodating up to 32 inmates, with officers assigned to oversee all aspects of daily life within these units. This direct supervision model requires specialized training for officers, setting them apart from traditional "linear" jail settings characterized by rows of barred cells. By prioritizing ongoing training and adherence to best practices, the Jefferson County Correctional Facility remains committed to maintaining a safe, orderly, and rehabilitative environment for both staff and inmates.

The Inmate Services Unit plays a crucial role in implementing, coordinating, and monitoring various facility programs, utilizing both in-house resources and community partnerships to support inmates in fostering positive change. These efforts aim to enhance self-awareness, improve morale, stimulate intellectual growth, uphold dignity, and reduce recidivism. Upon admission, Inmate Services Unit Staff conduct intake interviews, gathering information on personal and family background, criminal history, substance use, and medical and mental health concerns to develop tailored strategies for inmate interaction and program recommendations.

The jail offers a phone program for outbound calls only, with inmates unable to receive incoming calls. Accepting collect calls can be expensive, sometimes exceeding $10 per call. Alternatively, setting up an account through a third-party phone company may entail high fees per minute of usage. Click here for discounts on inmate calls, especially if the communication with your inmate is frequent. It's important to remember that all phone calls are recorded, and discussing sensitive legal matters over these lines is discouraged.

Books and magazines ordered for inmates must come directly from the publisher. This policy ensures that the items are new, untampered, and comply with the facility's regulations. The Jail enforces this rule to prevent the introduction of contraband or prohibited materials. By restricting orders to publishers, the facility can better maintain security and control over the content entering the institution. Any books or magazines not received directly from the publisher will be rejected and not delivered to the inmate. You may, however, send letters and selfies to inmates with this easy-to-use app, packages starting at only $8.00.

The facility offers specialized support through a Certified Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor who conducts assessments, facilitates community treatment program referrals, and coordinates self-help meetings, including the Intensive Corrections Addictions Residential Education Program. Additionally, facility clergy provide weekly religious services, visit housing units, offer individual consultations, and work with inmates' families and significant others to support their reintegration journey.

Inmate workers are chosen based on conduct and cooperation with staff. Participation in the community service program can sometimes reduce sentences. Commissary is available weekly, with orders submitted via kiosk two days in advance. On holidays, there may be increased spending limits. Upon receiving commissary items, inmates must present their ID, check their order, and sign for it in the presence of the commissary employee. Indigent inmates are provided with all essential basic hygiene items including USPS stamps and writing materials.