In the late 1980s, the jail that sits at 940 New Salem Highway was built. Around 10 years later, county commissioners approved the construction of a new multistory complex that was completed in 1998. After the new addition opened nearly 30 years ago, one problem remained - - the number of inmates continued to exceed the number the facility was designed to hold. Currently, the average daily inmate population at the local jail stands at a little over 1,000... The detention center was designed to hold up to 500 inmates in 1998. After past modifications were completed, it is now allowed to hold around 975 inmates. But the actual capacity continues to average 1,050 and 1,100 inmates daily.

At any given time, approximately 35 to 40 inmates have already been convicted and are awaiting transfer to a state prison... Meanwhile, the overall inmate population has continued on an upward trajectory as the detention center continues to age.

The newly elected sheriff recently opened the jail to county commissioners for a firsthand tour, allowing them to better understand the facility's current condition and see the growing need for a new detention center...

If the county moves forward with the purchase of property off South Church Street, near the county workhouse and juvenile detention facility, the Sheriff's Office could begin moving forward with plans to construct a new jail. Barrett stated, “...we're shooting for the end of '27. So by the end of next year, we'd love to be breaking ground.” Barrett suggested the entire project could be completed, with the new detention center opening to inmates around 2031. The cost of a new jail is expected to be at least $400-million, but that number will likely rise as the cost of living continues to go up. 

• Hear our entire interview with Sheriff Barrett HERE.