Tallapoosa County Jail Correctional Operations & Guide

The Tallapoosa County Jail, operated by the Sheriff’s Office, functions as a medium-security detention facility with a 170-bed capacity. The facility implements comprehensive security protocols, including 24/7 surveillance, controlled access, and thorough intake procedures. Inmates receive access to crucial services such as medical care, commissary privileges, and educational programs. The classification system ensures appropriate housing assignments based on risk assessment and behavioral evaluations. Professional staff oversee various rehabilitative initiatives, including drug treatment, mental health services, and work release programs. Comprehending the facility’s operations showcases a structured environment focused on security, rehabilitation, and successful community reintegration.

Facility Overview & Operations

Tallapoosa County Jail

316 Industrial Park Drive

Dadeville, AL 36853

(256) 825-4264

The Tallapoosa County Jail operates as a medium-security detention facility overseen by the Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Office. Situated on 316 Industrial Park Drive in Dadeville, Alabama, the jail’s 170-bed capacity primarily houses pre-trial felony defendants, sentenced felons, and misdemeanor offenders awaiting trial or sentencing. Online access to the inmate roster search provides detailed information including names, ages, physical descriptions, and court dates.

Comprehensive security measures, including 24/7 video surveillance, controlled access points, and thorough searches, ensure the safety and security of inmates, staff, and visitors. The facility maintains a regulated intake procedure for processing and housing all incoming detainees.

The facility’s operational policies mandate 24 full-time and 2 part-time employees who facilitate daily activities and uphold facility protocols. Inmates enjoy monitored phone communications through the GTL Connect Network and a structured visitation program offering video visits during scheduled hours, with visitors permitted up to two weekly sessions of up to three guests per visit.

Housing assignments are determined based on individual security requirements and facility guidelines during the booking process. Ultimately, the Tallapoosa County Jail upholds core values of safety, security, and humane treatment as it carries out its correctional responsibilities under the oversight of the Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Office.

Booking & Intake Process

Upon arrival, each inmate undergoes a comprehensive booking procedure. Jailers meticulously document the individual’s legal name, date of birth, and other pertinent identifiers, assigning a unique booking number as the primary tracking mechanism throughout their incarceration. The facility maintains an organized jail roster system, recording critical details such as charges, projected release dates, and scheduled court appearances for full transparency. The online inmate search feature enables authorized visitors to verify an individual’s custody status.

Following the initial documentation, inmates receive a thorough health screening conducted by qualified medical personnel. This assessment evaluates the individual’s physical and mental well-being, identifying any immediate needs or pre-existing conditions that require attention. Specialized staff then catalog and securely store the inmate’s personal property, providing a detailed inventory to maintain accountability. The facility operates visitation hours from Monday through Friday between 7:30 AM and 9:00 PM.

Concurrent with these processing steps, inmates receive a comprehensive overview of their rights and the facility’s rules and regulations. Jailers carefully explain the inmates’ legal entitlements, including access to counsel and visitation privileges, ensuring they understand their obligations and the consequences for noncompliance. An initial security classification also occurs, determining the appropriate temporary housing assignment based on factors such as the severity of charges, criminal history, and potential safety risks.

Ultimately, the booking and intake procedure at the Tallapoosa County Jail prioritizes accuracy, security, and the well-being of each detainee, leveraging systematic protocols to facilitate efficient facility operations while preserving the integrity of inmate records and providing authorized access to relevant information.

Inmate Classification System & Housing Units

The Tallapoosa County Jail employs a robust inmate classification system to appropriately assign its 170 inmates to specific housing units. This objective process leverages inmate data, including criminal histories, current charges, and behavioral assessments, to establish custody levels and housing placements.

Risk assessment protocols identify high-risk individuals who may pose security threats, while behavioral evaluations examine factors such as disciplinary records and gang affiliations to determine suitable housing.

The facility maintains separate housing sections for male and female offenders, with assignments based on classification status, security requirements, and available space. Specialized considerations accommodate inmates with medical conditions, mental health needs, or those requiring segregation. An override process, led by facility leadership, allows for exceptions to standard classification protocols when warranted.

Housing units provide access to critical services, including the facility’s new medical wing, kitchen facilities, and laundry services. The jail offers various rehabilitative programs, such as drug treatment and mental health services, while maintaining regulated communication systems for inmate phone calls. The three-story brick building provides ample space for all required operations and services.

The Administrative Lieutenant and Corrections Captain regularly review and update the housing plan to ensure optimal facility operations.

Jail Security Protocols & Safety Measures

To maintain a secure environment, Tallapoosa County Jail implements a comprehensive daily security regimen. Perimeter patrols continuously monitor the facility’s parameters, while electronic sensors and surveillance cameras track the movement of inmates, staff, and visitors. Each shift begins with a meticulous inmate count, verifying the location and status of every individual within the facility.

Inmates undergo thorough pat-downs and metal detector screenings upon entering and exiting any controlled area. Staff members conduct regular searches of cells, common areas, and work details, utilizing drug-sniffing K-9 units to detect and confiscate any illicit substances or contraband. The facility’s control center consolidates all security systems, allowing operators to remotely manage electronic doors, communicate with personnel, and dispatch immediate response teams as needed. Inmates can receive messages through secure inmate tablets that undergo strict screening protocols. The twenty-four full-time staff members maintain around-the-clock supervision of all detained individuals.

In the event of emergencies, the jail maintains rigorous procedures to safeguard lives and restore order. All staff receive extensive training in de-escalation techniques, use-of-force protocols, and emergency medical response. Detailed incident reporting ensures comprehensive documentation, while cross-agency coordination with local law enforcement enhances the effectiveness of the facility’s security posture.

Effective movement control is central to the jail’s security strategy. Inmates are escorted in small, manageable groups, with staff positioned to monitor and control their progress. Transport procedures involve redundant restraints, vehicle searches, and continuous radio communication to mitigate risks during transfers. Thorough searches of all incoming and outgoing deliveries, packages, and personal belongings further prevent the introduction of prohibited items.

Tallapoosa County Jail Inmate Services & Programs

Tallapoosa County Jail maintains a comprehensive array of inmate services and programs designed to support rehabilitation and promote successful reintegration into society.

The facility offers crucial services including healthcare, nutritional meals, and structured communication systems, while similarly providing educational opportunities through GED preparation and vocational training programs.

These services are complemented by counseling support, substance abuse treatment, and behavioral modification programs, all aimed at reducing recidivism and facilitating positive outcomes for inmates upon release.

Essential Inmate Services

Inmates at Tallapoosa County Jail receive comprehensive medical care through on-site clinics, staffed by licensed practitioners who provide routine check-ups, emergency treatment, and chronic disease management. Upon intake, all inmates undergo a thorough medical screening to identify any pressing needs.

Mental health professionals also conduct detailed assessments, referring inmates displaying signs of psychological distress to the Stepping Up Alabama program for individualized counseling and therapy.

The jail’s food service operation caters nutritionally-balanced meals, accommodating medically-prescribed diets and religious dietary restrictions. Inmates can access personal hygiene products and clean clothing through the facility’s laundry services, which operate on a weekly schedule. Commissary services allow inmates to purchase supplementary snacks, toiletries, and other approved items using funds deposited by friends and family.

Recognizing the importance of spiritual wellbeing, the jail facilitates regular religious services, enabling inmates to practice their faith. Recreational activities, including outdoor recreation time and access to the facility’s library, provide opportunities for physical exercise, educational enrichment, and mental stimulation. Through these essential services, the Tallapoosa County Jail aims to address the multifaceted needs of its inmate population while upholding safety and security protocols.

Rehabilitation & Education Programs for Inmates

The Tallapoosa County Jail offers a robust suite of rehabilitation programs designed to equip inmates with the skills and support needed for successful reintegration into their communities. At the core of this framework are comprehensive educational and vocational initiatives.

Inmates partake in a variety of educational courses, spanning foundational subjects like reading, writing, and mathematics to more advanced technical programs. Facilitated through partnerships with local community colleges, these offerings culminate in industry-recognized certifications that bolster participants’ employability upon release.

Complementing these academic pursuits, the jail’s vocational training modules impart practical hands-on skills across diverse trades, from carpentry and automotive repair to culinary arts and cosmetology.

Recognizing the inextricable link between mental health, substance abuse, and recidivism, the facility also delivers intensive behavioral health services. Building upon the evidence-based Stepping Up Alabama Program, these initiatives leverage tailored case management, counseling, and peer support to address the complex needs of inmates with serious mental illness or substance use disorders. Participants demonstrate a 29% lower recidivism rate compared to the general population.

Rounding out the rehabilitation framework are life skills workshops, equipping inmates with fundamental competencies in personal finance, conflict resolution, and parenting. These courses, coupled with the jail’s work release program, empower individuals to develop self-sufficiency and smooth the transition back into their communities. Eligible inmates can maintain employment and gradually reintegrate under the supervision of the Department of Corrections, which provides a $10 per diem allowance to support this initiative.

Admission to the jail’s rehabilitation programs is contingent upon both inmate interest and adherence to behavioral guidelines. Successful completion is marked by the attainment of educational certifications, behavioral health milestones, and demonstrated readiness for community reentry – all of which are meticulously tracked to evaluate the efficacy of these transformative interventions.

Visitation, Mail & Communication Guidelines

Visitation at Tallapoosa County Jail operates Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM, with modified weekend hours until 2:30 PM. All visitors must obtain pre-approval by completing a Visitor Application and providing a valid government-issued photo ID. Visitors must adhere to the facility’s dress code, which prohibits revealing or inappropriate attire.

The facility permits special visits for attorney consultations, immediate family members, and emergency situations. Children under the age of 18 may visit if accompanied by an approved adult guardian. Visitors undergo security screening, including metal detection and personal item inspection, before entering the visitation area.

Mail services at the jail function within precise guidelines. Incoming correspondence must display the inmate’s full name and booking number on the envelope. All mail is subject to inspection for contraband using specialized equipment. Regular mail delivery occurs on weekdays, excluding holidays, with a processing time of 3-7 days.

Inmates access telephone services through a secure, monitored system. Calls are limited to a maximum duration of 20 minutes and are placed collect or through pre-approved calling cards. The facility also offers electronic communication platforms, such as Penmate, Securus, JPay, and Smart Jail Mail, allowing inmates to send and receive messages, photos, and e-cards.

Commissary services complement the communication channels, enabling inmates to purchase approved personal items, including hygiene products, snacks, and writing materials, further supporting their connections with the outside world.

Inmate Legal Rights & Resources

Inmates at the Tallapoosa County Jail retain comprehensive legal protections under the First, Eighth, and Fourteenth Amendments, encompassing free expression, prohibition on cruel punishment, and due process guarantees.

A structured grievance system enables inmates to address concerns and file complaints by obtaining forms from staff, submitting grievances, and receiving documented responses through specialized software. This multi-tiered process allows inmates to escalate issues to the Lieutenant and Sheriff within 72-hour windows.

The jail facilitates inmates’ access to legal assistance through public defenders, private attorneys, and non-profit organizations. Inmates can arrange prepaid legal calls and access services directly from the Tallapoosa County Courthouse. Furthermore, inmates may request their incarceration records containing booking details, charges, and court dates, though processing fees may apply. The facility upholds strict protocols to maintain record accuracy and promptly fulfill requests upon receiving detailed identifying information.

Inmates may meet with attorneys during scheduled visitation hours or request legal research materials from the facility’s law library. The jail transports inmates to scheduled court appearances, ensuring they can attend judicial proceedings. Additionally, the jail provides information about the bond process, including applicable fees and timelines for release upon posting bond.

Tallapoosa County Jail Release Process & Reintegration

Inmates nearing release from Tallapoosa County Jail participate in a comprehensive pre-release planning process that assesses their eligibility for community corrections programs and early release options. Facility staff develop individualized operational plans and undergo specialized training to facilitate a successful reintegration.

Released inmates access a wide range of support services, including counseling, employment assistance, and housing resources, to address their unique needs. The jail’s partnership with Stepping Up Alabama ensures seamless integration of mental health care, providing released individuals with continued treatment options.

Monitoring systems track inmates’ progress post-release, implementing recidivism prevention measures and focusing on employment outcomes, behavioral improvement, and community engagement. To maintain continuity of care, the facility collaborates with local organizations to deliver comprehensive post-release support services, including family reunification assistance.

Through participation in community corrections programs, released inmates receive structured supervision while accessing crucial services to aid their transition back into the community.

Performance Metrics & Compliance Reports

Tallapoosa County Jail meticulously tracks critical Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to drive continuous operational excellence. Inmates undergo rigorous drug testing, with a less than 3% positive rate, and the serious assault rate remains below 1 incident per 1,000 inmates. Program participation, which includes educational courses and vocational training, averages 85% engagement across the population. The facility consistently maintains its inmate population within 15% of its 1,850-bed design capacity, optimizing resource allocation and mitigating overcrowding.

Comprehensive compliance monitoring underpins the jail’s commitment to regulatory adherence. Quarterly audits assess adherence to safety protocols, inmate health standards, and staff training requirements. The jail allocates over 20% of its $42 million annual budget to employee development, ensuring officers maintain expertise in correctional operations and evolving legal mandates. State accreditation reviews consistently validate the facility’s exemplary practices, which are further reinforced through transparent reporting to stakeholders.

Rigorous population management techniques, including objective classification assessments and structured release planning, enable the jail to house inmates in appropriate security levels and facilitate successful community reintegration. Dedicated staffing models optimize supervision ratios, with a correction officer-to-inmate ratio of 1:15, safeguarding both personnel and inmate wellbeing. Thorough documentation of all operational metrics and incident reports in a centralized data management system facilitates data-driven decision-making and real-time monitoring of performance trends.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Length of Stay for Inmates at Tallapoosa County Jail?

The average length of stay varies significantly, with pretrial detainees remaining weeks to months, while sentenced inmates typically serve up to one year before potential transfer to state facilities.

How Many Correctional Officers Are Currently Employed at the Facility?

While the total facility employs 24 full-time and 2 part-time staff members, the specific number of correctional officers is not provided in the available employment data.

What Percentage of Inmates Return to Jail Within One Year?

Based on the provided data, Tallapoosa County has a 46.7% recidivism rate, which is significantly higher than the state average and one of the highest among Alabama’s community corrections programs.

How Does the Jail’s Budget Compare to Other Alabama County Facilities?

Direct county-by-county budget comparisons for Alabama jails are not available in the provided data. Tallapoosa County’s annual jail budget of $1,969,591 serves as the only reference point.

What Mental Health Crisis Incidents Occurred at the Facility Last Year?

Based on available information, no specific mental health crisis incidents were reported at the facility last year. Nonetheless, the jail participates in Alabama’s Stepping Up program addressing mental health needs.