Dale County Jail, established in 1988 in Ozark, Alabama, operates as a 116-bed correctional facility under the Dale County Sheriff’s Office’s jurisdiction. The facility manages pretrial detainees and misdemeanor sentences across 561 square miles, featuring specialized housing units, including a 12-bed female dormitory. Its comprehensive operations encompass structured booking procedures, multi-tiered inmate classification systems, and stringent security protocols. The facility provides various rehabilitation programs, substance abuse treatment, and work assignments while maintaining strict visitation and communication directives. A thorough understanding of the facility’s procedures ensures optimal traversal of its correctional services and programs.
Facility Overview & Operations
The Dale County Jail, located at 124 Adams Street, Ozark, Alabama 36360, (334) 774-5402, is a secure correctional facility within the county’s justice system. Constructed in 1988 and named after former Sheriff Bryant Mixon, the jail maintains a capacity of 116 beds, housing diverse inmate populations, including pretrial detainees and individuals serving misdemeanor sentences. The facility was rebuilt after a devastating fire necessitated its reconstruction.
Under the administration of Captain Steven Baxley, the facility adheres to a structured operational framework that accommodates inmates classified across varied risk levels and security profiles. The jail operates within 561 square miles of Dale County jurisdiction. A dedicated high-risk cell block ensures enhanced supervision for individuals requiring additional monitoring based on criminal charges, behavioral patterns, or medical conditions.
The jail further includes a specialized 12-bed female dormitory, upholding appropriate gender separation in alignment with correctional standards. Governed by the Dale County Sheriff’s Office, the facility provides inmates access to comprehensive amenities and services. These include a full-service kitchen, a law library, and a dedicated booking area.
Through its tailored operational policies and key facilities, the Dale County Jail sustains its commitment to secure custody while addressing the diverse needs of its inmate population, including those held under the jurisdiction of Alabama Parole and Probation.
Booking & Intake Process
Upon arrival at Dale County Jail, deputies swiftly initiate the comprehensive booking and intake process. This procedure commences with verification of the arrestee’s identity through government-issued identification or other documented means. Next, deputies assess the criminal charges, meticulously completing the booking forms to establish a detailed custody file. Fingerprints are systematically obtained, and mandatory health screenings are conducted to identify any pressing medical conditions or suicide risk factors. Once booked, staff confirm inmate search status online through the official Dale County Sheriff’s Department website.
All personal belongings undergo a thorough search and are securely stored for safekeeping. The typical booking process can take 1 to 48 hours, depending on various factors and circumstances. Inmates receive a comprehensive medical evaluation, including screening for substance abuse issues and suicide risk assessments, to ensure their well-being and appropriate placement within the facility.
Based on these evaluations, the classification phase commences, assigning inmates to specific housing units according to their risk levels, behavioral factors, and individual needs. High-risk individuals are strategically segregated, while eligible trustees may receive work assignments within the jail.
The intake process encompasses detailed notifications regarding visitation protocols, which occur solely on Sundays, and guidelines for mail correspondence and telephone communications through pre-paid systems. Throughout this multifaceted procedure, the jail provides access to various rehabilitation programs, such as substance abuse treatment and anger management services, to address the underlying factors contributing to the inmates’ incarceration.
Inmate Classification System & Housing Units
Inmates entering the Dale County Jail undergo a rigorous classification process that determines their housing assignments and custody levels. Classification specialists assess each new arrival within 72 hours, analyzing their criminal history, current charges, and behavioral factors through objective classification tools and thoroughly documenting their findings in the jail management system. This assessment assigns inmates to one of four main security levels – maximum, medium, minimum, or special needs – each with distinct housing unit types and prominent features.
Maximum-security inmates reside in single cells under heightened surveillance and restricted movement. Medium-security inmates share 2-person cells with controlled access and supervised activities. Minimum-security inmates live in dormitory-style housing, allowing for greater program participation and fewer limits. Special needs inmates occupy dedicated medical units with healthcare access and specialized monitoring. All inmates must arrive at least 45 minutes before scheduled appointments or proceedings for security purposes.
Additionally, the facility maintains segregated protective housing units that isolate inmates requiring amplified protection, such as those at risk of harm from others. Housing assignments consider custody level, behavioral history, and participation in available programs, ensuring appropriate placement. The classification system remains dynamic, with reclassification procedures implemented as needed based on changes in an inmate’s behavior or case status.
Based on their conduct and program involvement, inmates can progress through the security levels, transitioning from the more restrictive maximum and medium units to the less restrictive minimum and special needs housing. However, certain behavioral issues or disciplinary infractions may result in an inmate being moved to a higher security level with increased movement, access, and privileges restrictions.
Jail Security Protocols & Safety Measures
Dale County Jail upholds a robust security regime through meticulously orchestrated protocols and procedures. Correctional officers diligently conduct regular headcounts, tallying each inmate’s presence at fixed intervals to monitor the facility population and prevent unauthorized absences. Movement within the 116-bed institution strictly adheres to a comprehensive control protocol, with inmates escorted under constant supervision during any authorized relocation. Officers must remain highly vigilant at all times to effectively prevent and respond to potential violent incidents.
Proactive contraband detection represents a cornerstone of the jail’s security framework. Specialized staff thoroughly inspect all incoming packages, visitor belongings, and inmate property, utilizing cutting-edge screening technology and physical searches to intercept illicit items. Random pat-downs and cell searches further bolster these efforts, empowering officers to swiftly identify and confiscate prohibited substances, weapons, and contraband. The facility’s medium security status ensures appropriate measures are implemented to maintain order while facilitating rehabilitation.
Comprehensive emergency planning equips the facility to respond decisively to crises. Correctional officers receive extensive training in de-escalation tactics, restraint techniques, and appropriate use of force, enabling them to diffuse volatile incidents with minimal disruption. The control center coordinates emergency protocols, deploying specialized teams and resources as required to contain security breaches, medical emergencies, or natural disasters.
Meticulous documentation and reporting procedures ensure thorough record-keeping and effective incident response. Officers meticulously document all security events, logging relevant details in comprehensive reports that inform future planning and staff training. The facility’s central command diligently monitors and analyzes these records, identifying trends and developing targeted strategies to address emerging threats or vulnerabilities.
Dale County Jail Inmate Services & Programs
Dale County Jail maintains a comprehensive array of inmate services and programs to facilitate rehabilitation and diminish recidivism rates. The facility offers educational opportunities, including GED certification and vocational training in welding, carpentry, and plumbing, alongside crucial health services and religious counseling programs.
Combined with rehabilitation initiatives, these services aim to equip inmates with the practical skills and support required for successful reintegration into society upon release.
Essential Inmate Services
The Dale County Jail ensures inmates receive comprehensive medical care through 24/7 on-site medical services staffed by trained professionals. Inmates can access routine check-ups and emergency treatment, while arrangements with the nearby Dale Medical Center facilitate specialized care as needed.
The facility’s mental health program provides counseling and therapy sessions to address inmate well-being, guiding them toward positive coping strategies and emotional stability.
Inmates consume three nutritionally balanced meals daily, prepared in compliance with recommended dietary guidelines to maintain physical health. Meal plans accommodate specialized dietary requirements, such as vegetarian, kosher, or halal options. Robust hygiene standards mandate daily access to showers, while the laundry service regularly cleans and provides clean linens and uniforms.
The commissary system enables inmates to purchase approved personal care items, snacks, and communication amenities, promoting self-care and fostering a sense of normalcy. Religious services, led by chaplains and volunteers, occur regularly, allowing inmates to practice their faith. The facility’s recreation area provides opportunities for physical exercise, while the library stocks a diverse collection of books, magazines, and educational materials to stimulate the mind.
Rehabilitation & Education Programs for Inmates
The Dale County Jail cultivates an environment of rehabilitation and skill development through a robust suite of educational, vocational, and therapeutic programs. Inmates can earn their GED certification by completing the jail’s comprehensive coursework and examination. The facility also offers vocational training workshops in high-demand trades like welding and carpentry, empowering participants to acquire specialized, marketable skills.
To address underlying behavioral and substance abuse issues, the jail incorporates evidence-based treatment modalities, including individual and group counseling sessions facilitated by licensed clinicians. These behavioral programs prioritize self-reflection, emotional regulation, and adopting prosocial values to deter future criminal activity. Supplementing the counseling regimen, the jail’s religious services component delivers faith-based education and spiritual guidance from volunteer chaplains.
Recognizing the importance of holistic well-being, the facility maintains around-the-clock medical care. It serves nutritious meals to ensure inmates maintain optimal physical and mental health during incarceration. The jail’s work programs further enhance rehabilitation by providing structured, therapeutic activities that allow participants to develop practical skills while earning wage compensation. These work assignments align with the initiatives of the Community Reintegration Commission, establishing a continuity of care and support to facilitate successful transitions back into society.
Inmates must meet specific eligibility criteria and complete all program requirements to graduate from the jail’s rehabilitation and education initiatives successfully. Through this multifaceted approach, the Dale County Jail empowers individuals to make meaningful transformations, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to lead productive, law-abiding lives upon release.
Visitation, Mail & Communication Guidelines
Visitation at Dale County Jail is permitted during designated hours, which vary by day of the week. All in-person or via video visits require prior approval from the facility. Prospective visitors must complete an application form and submit valid photo identification for a background check. Upon arrival, approved visitors are subject to a security screening, including a metal detector.
Dress codes are strictly enforced, prohibiting revealing attire, gang-affiliated clothing, or items that could pose a security risk. Children may accompany adult visitors but must remain under their supervision at all times. Contacting the jail’s administration can arrange special visits, such as for legal matters or medical emergencies.
All non-legal mail is processed through TextBehind services. Correspondents must include the inmate’s full name and identification number on the envelope or electronic letter. Physical mail is photocopied before delivery, while electronic letters submitted before 11:00 AM can be processed the same day. Reading materials must be ordered directly from approved distributors and are subject to quantity and type restrictions.
Inmates can make outgoing calls through the facility’s telephone system, which IC Solutions operates. Calls are monitored for security purposes, and inmates must register their contacts in advance. Video visitation is also available, requiring visitors to create an account and schedule appointments through the jail’s online platform.
Inmate Legal Rights & Resources
Inmates at Dale County Jail maintain fundamental legal rights safeguarded by federal law and constitutional protections. The facility strictly adheres to the Eighth Amendment’s prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment and the Fourteenth Amendment’s guarantee of equal protection. Inmates can file grievances through a structured complaint system to address concerns about conditions or treatment. The jail provides access to necessary medical and mental health services, meeting constitutional standards. Inmates also receive protection against discrimination based on race, religion, or disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Inmates can access available legal resources and assistance to address rights violations. The jail maintains compliance with the Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act (CRIPA) and the Prison Litigation Reform Act (PLRA), ensuring proper administrative procedures. Upon intake, inmates receive information about their rights, including guidelines for requesting legal materials, filing grievances, and accessing medical care. The jail’s classification system places inmates in appropriate housing while upholding safety and security protocols.
Inmates can attend court hearings and meet with attorneys during scheduled visitation hours. The facility provides a law library with legal reference materials, enabling inmates to conduct research and prepare for legal proceedings. Information about bond amounts and release eligibility is also accessible to inmates. Through these comprehensive measures, Dale County Jail safeguards all incarcerated individuals’ fundamental rights and dignity.
Dale County Jail Release Process & Reintegration
The Dale County Jail’s comprehensive release process begins with administrative preparation, ensuring inmates possess the necessary documentation and personal belongings upon exit. An inmate’s release timeline hinges on sentence completion, program participation, and behavioral records.
Facility-based reintegration programs encompass educational initiatives for GED certification, vocational training, and life enrichment classes. Reentry coordinators collaborate closely with inmates, facilitating access to community resources and establishing external partnerships to address barriers to successful reintegration.
Institutional support through classification specialists, mental health staff, and chaplain services plays a pivotal role. The jail provides extensive post-release services, including job placement assistance, vocational training, and faith-based mentoring. Transitional case management services also address basic and technical needs before release.
Pre-release counseling addresses inmates’ emotional and psychological needs, while medical and dental care coordination ensures continued healthcare access. The facility further assists with parental rights and child custody matters, supporting inmates in re-establishing family relationships upon release.
Successful program completion serves as a prerequisite for accessing comprehensive post-release employment assistance, housing support, and continued mental health/substance abuse treatment options. The jail’s multifaceted approach aims to address inmates’ diverse reintegration needs holistically, positioning them for long-term stability and success in the community.
Performance Metrics & Compliance Reports
Dale County Jail upholds operational standards through comprehensive compliance monitoring, leveraging incident statistics, program success rates, population management, budget allocation, and staff training to ensure institutional effectiveness. Security teams track assault rates, contraband findings, and disturbance reports, employing structured data management to assess safety metrics.
Population management protocols monitor capacity levels, housing assignments, and classification adherence, while administrators evaluate participation in rehabilitation and educational initiatives to gauge program effectiveness. Financial resources fund facility maintenance, security procedures, and staff development, enabling the jail to maintain operational efficiency and pursue continuous improvement.
Daily operational audits verify adherence to established protocols for inmate management and facility security, with specialized tracking systems monitoring high-risk areas like contraband prevention and medical service delivery. Administrators leverage this data to proactively identify trends, address potential issues, and align practices with correctional best practices. By integrating these diverse performance indicators, the jail cultivates a culture of accountability, safety, and operational excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Inmates Have Successfully Appealed Their Cases From Dale County Jail?
Based on available data, specific statistics concerning successful appeals from Dale County Jail cannot be determined, as comprehensive records of inmate appeals and their outcomes are not publicly accessible.
What Percentage of Dale County Jail Staff Have Military or Law Enforcement Backgrounds?
Based on available information, only Chief Deputy Kyle Anderson’s military background and Sheriff Mason Bynum’s law enforcement experience are confirmed, making it impossible to calculate an accurate percentage of total staff backgrounds.
How Does Dale County Jail’s Recidivism Rate Compare to State Averages?
While specific recidivism data for Dale County Jail is unavailable, Alabama’s state average is 28.7%. This rate falls below the national average and ranks favorably compared to many other states.
What Is the Average Length of Employment for Dale County Jail Staff?
Without specific data available about Dale County Jail staff tenure, it’s impossible to definitively state their average length of employment compared to the typical 5-7 year correctional officer career span.
How Many Civil Rights Complaints Have Been Filed Against Dale County Jail?
Based on available sources, the exact number of civil rights complaints filed cannot be determined due to a lack of comprehensive public data tracking individual Section 1983 cases against this facility.