A Comprehensive Guide to the Tom Green County Jail

The Tom Green County Jail is a major correctional facility located in San Angelo, Texas. It serves as the primary detention center for Tom Green County, housing both pre-trial and sentenced inmates. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information about the jail, its operations, and resources available to inmates and their families.

Background and History

The Tom Green County Jail was established in 1987 to meet the growing need for detention space in the county. The facility has undergone several expansions and renovations over the years to accommodate the increasing inmate population. In 2018, a major expansion project added 256 new beds, bringing the jail's total capacity to 512.

Facilities and Security

The jail consists of multiple housing units, each designed to hold inmates with different security levels. The facility features modern security systems, including electronic door locks, surveillance cameras, and perimeter fencing. Inmates are monitored and supervised by a team of trained correctional officers.

Housing Units:

• General Population Housing: Holds the majority of inmates who are not considered a security risk.
• Administrative Segregation: Holds inmates who have been disciplined or are awaiting trial for serious offenses.
• Medical Unit: Provides medical and mental health care to inmates.
• Disciplinary Segregation: Holds inmates who have committed major rule violations.

Inmate Programs and Services

The Tom Green County Jail offers various programs and services to inmates, including:

• Educational Programs: Inmates have access to educational programs, including GED classes and vocational training.
• Work Release Program: Allows eligible inmates to work outside the jail during the day.
• Substance Abuse Treatment: Provides counseling and treatment for inmates struggling with addiction.
• Mental Health Services: Offers mental health evaluations, counseling, and medication management.
• Religious Services: Chaplaincy services are available to inmates of all faiths.

Inmate Rights and Responsibilities

Inmates at the Tom Green County Jail have certain rights and responsibilities, including:

Rights:

• Right to access legal counsel
• Right to due process
• Right to medical and mental health care
• Right to religious freedom

Responsibilities:

• Follow jail rules and regulations
• Respect staff and other inmates
• Maintain a clean and organized living area
• Participate in mandatory programs and activities

Inmate Information and Visitation

Inmate Information:

Inmates can be located by name or inmate number through the Tom Green County Sheriff's Office website. The website provides information such as charges, bond amounts, and release dates.

Visitation:

• Visitation is limited to immediate family members and authorized visitors.
• Visitors must schedule appointments in advance.
• All visitors are subject to security screening and background checks.

Resources for Inmates and Families

Inmate Resources:

• Inmate Commissary: Inmates can purchase personal items and snacks from the jail commissary.
• Library: Access to books, newspapers, and educational materials.
• Phone and Email: Inmates can make phone calls and send emails to approved contacts.

Family Resources:

• Visitation Support: Organizations such as the Tom Green County Sheriff's Office Victim Assistance Unit provide support and assistance to families of inmates.
• Legal Aid: The Tom Green County Bar Association offers legal aid services to low-income families of inmates.
• Reentry Programs: The jail coordinates with local reentry programs to help inmates transition back into the community after release.

Statistics and Trends

Inmate Population:

As of 2023, the Tom Green County Jail has an average daily population of approximately 450 inmates. The jail has a maximum capacity of 512.

Recidivism Rates:

According to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, the recidivism rate for inmates released from the Tom Green County Jail is approximately 40%. This means that 40% of inmates who are released from the jail are re-arrested within three years.

Effective Strategies for Inmate Rehabilitation

To reduce recidivism rates, the Tom Green County Jail implements several effective strategies for inmate rehabilitation, including:

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy: Helps inmates identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors.
• Substance Abuse Treatment: Provides evidence-based treatment for inmates struggling with addiction.
• Education and Vocational Training: Equips inmates with skills and knowledge that can help them find employment and transition back into society.
• Mental Health Services: Addresses mental health issues that may have contributed to criminal behavior.
• Reentry Planning: Prepares inmates for release by providing them with support and resources to succeed in the community.

Tips and Tricks for Families of Inmates

• Stay Informed: Regularly check the Tom Green County Sheriff's Office website for updates on inmate information.
• Visit Regularly: Maintain regular contact with your incarcerated loved one to provide support and encouragement.
• Attend Court Hearings: Attend court hearings to support your loved one and stay informed about their case.
• Seek Support: Connect with organizations and support groups that provide resources and assistance to families of inmates.
• Prepare for Reentry: Plan ahead for your loved one's release by collaborating with reentry programs and gathering necessary resources.

How to Access Help

If you or someone you know is incarcerated in the Tom Green County Jail, there are several resources available to help:

• Tom Green County Sheriff's Office: (325) 655-8111
• Tom Green County Jail: (325) 655-8100
• National Inmate Locator: https://www.bop.gov/inmateloc/
• Victim Assistance Unit: (325) 655-8124
• Tom Green County Bar Association: (325) 655-9927

Conclusion

The Tom Green County Jail is a vital part of the criminal justice system in Tom Green County. The jail provides a safe and secure environment for inmates and offers a range of programs and services to support their rehabilitation. By working together with community partners and implementing evidence-based practices, the jail strives to reduce recidivism rates and improve outcomes for inmates.