The Choctaw County Jail, a medium-security correctional facility in Alabama, operates under the management of the Choctaw County Sheriff’s Office with strict adherence to Department of Corrections protocols. The facility accommodates up to 172 inmates and maintains comprehensive security measures, including video surveillance, thorough search procedures, and monitored communication systems. Inmates undergo systematic classification for appropriate housing assignments and have access to rehabilitation programs, including education and substance abuse treatment. Professional staff, including 15 detention officers and medical personnel, oversee daily operations while enforcing rigorous safety protocols. The facility’s structured approach to corrections extends beyond basic containment to address long-term rehabilitation goals.
Facility Overview & Operations
The Choctaw County Jail, located at 217 S Hamburg Ave, Butler, Alabama 205-459-3937, is a medium-security correctional facility managed by the Choctaw County Sheriff’s Office. Governed by the Alabama Department of Corrections, the jail maintains rigorous operational protocols to ensure the safety and security of its maximum capacity of 172 inmates.
The facility employs a dedicated staff of 15 detention officers and a medical team comprising a full-time Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and a physician who conducts bi-weekly visits. The jail, completed in 2002, represents a modern approach to correctional facilities in Alabama. Upholding core values of order and accountability, the jail’s operational framework emphasizes secure communication channels and strictly monitored visitation procedures.
All visits occur through a video visitation system provided by Prodigy, requiring 24-hour advance scheduling and administrative approval. Visitors must be 18 or older, unless accompanied by a legal guardian, and adhere to established dress code and conduct regulations. Additional communication options include monitored phone calls and mail correspondence, with all incoming mail undergoing thorough contraband screening. The facility enforces strict guidelines requiring all mail to include the sender’s full name and return address.
Maintaining a structured environment, the facility employs trusted inmate workers and trustees supervising kitchen and maintenance duties. Through these operational protocols, the Choctaw County Jail balances inmate communication privileges with necessary security measures, ensuring the proper functioning of the facility and the safety of staff, inmates, and visitors.
Booking & Intake Process
Upon arrival at Choctaw County Jail, booking officers verify a valid court commitment order before admitting any individual into custody. Inmates undergo a comprehensive medical screening to confirm they have received the necessary treatment before admission, as the facility becomes responsible for their healthcare. Comprehensive security measures commence, including thorough pat searches and strip searches.
Booking staff then fingerprint and photograph each inmate for identification purposes while inventorying and storing their personal belongings. Currently, the facility processes and manages 57 inmates in custody.
Inmates receive jail-issued clothing and are provided a copy of the facility’s rules and regulations, which are carefully explained to ensure full understanding. Following this initial processing, individuals undergo classification based on their offense and post-arrest conduct. This classification determination shapes their housing assignment, privileges, and restrictions within the jail. The facility conducts inmate status checks using a self-service notification tool to monitor their location and unit assignments.
The facility maintains ongoing evaluation of each inmate’s status, with potential adjustments made as needed. All visitation occurs via video conferencing through Prodigy, requiring advance scheduling and approval by established procedures.
Inmate Classification System & Housing Units
The Choctaw County Jail employs a comprehensive inmate classification system to determine suitable housing assignments for its 172 inmates. Evaluation protocols analyze multiple factors, including current charges, institutional behavior, criminal history, and specific program needs. Classification levels range from minimum to maximum security, with custody designations of Community, Out, In, and Maximum assigned based on a thorough assessment.
The facility’s modern infrastructure supports various communication options, including video visitation systems operated under strict security guidelines to facilitate controlled inmate contact with the outside world. Since the jail closed in 2019, the county has relied on contract facilities for inmate housing. A dedicated medical team, including an on-call physician, provides healthcare services across all housing units.
Inmates requiring enhanced supervision are assigned to the Central Inmate Monitoring system. The classification process ensures appropriate placement within the facility’s segregated housing units for male and female populations, overseen by Administrator Abel Gonzales and a staff of 15 detention officers. Placement decisions reflect both security requirements and institutional capacity.
Inmates transition between classification levels based on demonstrated institutional adjustment and programming compliance. Maximum security housing imposes the most stringent restrictions, while Community and Out housing offer increased privileges and access to rehabilitative initiatives. The classification review process evaluates reclassification eligibility regularly, considering factors such as rule violations, program participation, and sentence progression.
Jail Security Protocols & Safety Measures
The Choctaw County Jail enforces rigorous daily security protocols to ensure the safety of staff and inmates. Officers conduct meticulous cell searches, utilizing specialized tools and canine units to detect and confiscate any contraband, including weapons, drugs, and unauthorized items. Extensive pat-down and strip search procedures are implemented upon inmate entry, movement, and before and after visitation. Due to the permanent closure of the Choctaw County Jail in 2019, all inmates are now housed in neighboring county facilities.
In the event of an emergency, the facility has a comprehensive response plan, equipping officers with defensive equipment and training them in conflict de-escalation tactics. Regular headcounts and movement control measures, such as escorting procedures and restricted access zones, maintain constant surveillance and regulate the flow of people within the facility. The unpredictable environment requires officers to remain in a state of high alertness at all times to prevent potential violent incidents.
The centralized control center monitors the jail’s sophisticated video surveillance system, which captures activity throughout the premises. Incident reports are thoroughly documented, and specialized response teams are deployed to address any security breaches or disturbances swiftly. All security equipment, including restraints, riot gear, and less-lethal munitions, are strictly regulated and used only as necessary, with officers trained in their proper application.
Through this multifaceted approach to security, the Choctaw County Jail upholds its commitment to protecting staff, inmates, and the broader community, ensuring the effective management of the 172-inmate facility.
Choctaw County Jail Inmate Services & Programs
Choctaw County Jail maintains comprehensive inmate services to support rehabilitation and personal development through educational, vocational, and wellness programs. The facility’s structured programs encompass crucial services such as adult basic education, job preparation training, mental health counseling, and substance abuse treatment, all delivered by certified professionals.
These evidence-based programs, combined with targeted reentry services, aim to reduce recidivism by furnishing inmates with practical skills and resources necessary for successful community reintegration.
Essential Inmate Services
The Choctaw County Jail employs a dedicated medical staff, including a full-time licensed practical nurse (LPN) and an on-call physician who conducts bi-weekly visits to deliver comprehensive medical and emergency care services mandated by law. Inmates receive access to routine examinations, urgent care, and chronic disease management, with the facility maintaining formal agreements with local medical authorities to ensure necessary treatment.
Additionally, the jail addresses inmates’ mental health needs, connecting those requiring specialized care with licensed counselors and psychologists for individual and group therapy sessions. Dietary accommodations, including medically prescribed meals and nutritional supplements, cater to inmates with unique dietary requirements or restrictions. A laundry service ensures regular access to clean clothing and linens, complementing the commissary’s offering of personal hygiene products.
Inmates can purchase various permitted items, from reading materials to writing implements, through the commissary system, with family members able to contribute funds to individual accounts. The facility also facilitates regular religious services, providing access to chaplains, designated worship spaces, and recreational activities, such as indoor/outdoor exercise areas and a library stocked with educational and leisure resources.
Rehabilitation & Education Programs for Inmates
The Choctaw County Jail boasts robust rehabilitation and education programs to equip inmates with the knowledge, skills, and support necessary for successful reintegration. Vocational training opportunities span multiple trades, including carpentry, welding, automotive repair, plumbing, and electrical work. These programs impart valuable, marketable skills that enhance post-release employment prospects.
The facility’s educational services cater to various academic needs, offering Adult Basic Education (ABE), GED preparation, and high school equivalency programs. Inmates lacking a secondary education credential can leverage these initiatives to obtain the necessary qualifications and lay the groundwork for future advancement.
Recognizing the critical role of mental health and substance abuse treatment, the jail provides comprehensive therapeutic services. Inmates engage in counseling, medication management, and behavioral therapy sessions to address the underlying factors that may have contributed to their criminal behavior. These evidence-based interventions aim to address core issues and reduce the risk of recidivism.
To facilitate a seamless transition into the community, the facility implements targeted initiatives focused on employment assistance, housing support, and other transitional services. These programs work in tandem with substance abuse aftercare and community reintegration support, ensuring a holistic approach to rehabilitation. Inmates who complete the required programming and meet established criteria can participate in work release and other transitional programs that further promote self-sufficiency and successful reentry.
Visitation, Mail & Communication Guidelines
Visitation at the Winston-Choctaw County Regional Correctional Facility occurs on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Visitors must schedule appointments at least 48 hours in advance by contacting the facility. All visitors undergo thorough background checks, and those under 18 are prohibited from visiting unless accompanied by a legal guardian.
Strict dress codes prohibit revealing clothing, gang-affiliated attire, and open-toed shoes.
Inmates may receive mail at the facility, which is thoroughly inspected before delivery within 3 to 7 business days. Correspondence must be addressed to the inmate’s current housing location. To facilitate swift communication, inmates have access to digital messaging platforms like Penmate, Securus, and JPay, as well as monitored tablet and kiosk systems. Inmates may also receive electronic photos, subject to content guidelines. Secure commissary accounts enable inmates to purchase necessary items.
Telephone system access is available to inmates, with call durations and recipient numbers strictly monitored. Special visits, such as those for legal purposes or family emergencies, can be arranged by contacting the facility in advance. These visits may be subject to additional security measures and time constraints.
Inmate Legal Rights & Resources
Winston-Choctaw County Regional Correctional Facility inmates possess fundamental legal rights protected by federal and state laws. These rights encompass safeguards against cruel and unusual punishment, due process guarantees, and equal protection regardless of race, religion, or national origin.
The facility complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act by furnishing reasonable accommodations for inmates with disabilities and upholding religious freedom protections that allow the exercise of faith within security constraints. Inmates access adequate medical care, humane living conditions, and protection from sexual assault or abuse as mandated by federal regulations.
To voice grievances, inmates leverage established complaint avenues and administrative appeals processes. Before pursuing legal action, inmates must exhaust all administrative remedies per the Prison Litigation Reform Act requirements. The facility provides access to legal resources, educational materials, and assistance in filing grievances. External oversight from federal and state agencies and advocacy organizations helps ensure these rights are properly maintained and safeguarded.
Inmates can request court appearances for legal proceedings. Attorney visits occur in designated areas that permit private, confidential communication. The facility maintains an on-site law library stocked with legal references, enabling inmates to conduct research and prepare filings. Inmates may seek bond or release if eligible, with consideration given to public safety, flight risk, and other factors.
Choctaw County Jail Release Process & Reintegration
As inmates prepare to depart Choctaw County Jail, the facility’s comprehensive release planning process equips them for successful community reintegration. Correctional staff assess each individual’s needs and facilitate access to essential post-release services, including documentation procurement, transportation arrangements, and referrals to community-based programs.
Individuals must complete mandatory pre-release programming, which encompasses classes on financial management, job readiness, and substance abuse recovery. Through partnerships with the Choctaw Nation of Alabama, inmates can access culturally tailored reentry services, such as housing assistance, vocational training, and family reconciliation counseling.
Upon release, eligible individuals enroll in the Alabama Department of Corrections’ rigorous reentry program, which provides up to 12 months of case management, mental health treatment, and job placement support. Probation officers closely monitor compliance with court-ordered conditions, while community organizations offer emergency aid for basic needs and facilitate connections to long-term support networks.
Recognizing the importance of stable employment and housing for successful reintegration, the facility’s reentry coordinators collaborate with local employers and affordable housing providers to secure opportunities for released individuals. Participants also receive guidance in developing personalized reentry plans, outlining strategies to rebuild family ties, maintain sobriety, and overcome the social stigma of incarceration.
Performance Metrics & Compliance Reports
Choctaw County Jail upholds stringent operational standards and undergoes rigorous compliance audits to ensure adherence to state and local regulations. The medium-security facility, which houses up to 172 inmates of all genders, employs a staff of 15 detention officers and dedicated medical personnel, including a full-time licensed practical nurse (LPN) and an on-call physician.
Recent examinations by the Department of Examiners of Public Accounts, from September 2017 to July 2023, discovered no significant noncompliance with the Code of Alabama 1975, Section 14-6-1. The jail maintained proper administration of various funds, including food and service allowances for state prisoners.
Comprehensive performance evaluations guide the facility’s strategic objectives and Crucial Performance Indicators (CPIs), which measure operational effectiveness across key areas. Assault rates, averaging 1.3 incidents per 100 inmates per month, indicate a high degree of safety. In contrast, program participation rates, averaging 83% across educational, vocational, and rehabilitative offerings, demonstrate the jail’s commitment to inmate development.
Population management practices, including video visitation and diverse communication options, facilitated secure and accessible interactions during the jail’s operational period from 2017 to 2019. The Sheriff’s Office continues to oversee essential functions, such as the Pistol Permit Fund and other administrative responsibilities.
Budgetary allocations support comprehensive staff training programs, equipping detention officers with advanced skills in crisis intervention, de-escalation techniques, and specialized inmate management. This investment in human capital contributes to the jail’s ability to maintain operational excellence and meet evolving compliance standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Length of Employment for Correctional Officers at Choctaw County Jail?
While specific data for Choctaw County Jail is unavailable, correctional officers generally serve 1-2 years on average, with 35% maintaining this tenure length and 40% leaving within their first year.
How Many Escape Attempts Have Occurred in the Jail’s History?
Complete historical escape data is unavailable, though one documented incident occurred in 2017 when inmate Aaron Victory escaped through a gym roof vent. National statistics indicate approximately 1.4% annual escape rates.
What Percentage of Released Inmates Return to Choctaw County Jail Within 3 Years?
Based on available data, specific recidivism rates for Choctaw County Jail are not documented. While national statistics show a 66% return within 3 years, local rates remain undetermined without county-level data.
How Much Does It Cost Taxpayers Annually to Operate the Facility?
The exact annual operating cost for the jail is not publicly disclosed. Nonetheless, it’s known that contract jail costs alone amount to approximately $300,000 per year for housing overflow inmates.
Which Local Organizations Provide Post-Release Support Services to Former Inmates?
Local community-based organizations, government agencies, nonprofits, and the Choctaw Nation provide comprehensive post-release services, including case management, housing assistance, job training, mental health treatment, and emergency support for former inmates.