Jail implements cost cutting measure

The change will not only save money, but will also increase safety according to Sheriff Jud Smith.

Smith said previously personnel had to go through each piece of mail searching for contraband.

With hundreds of pieces of mail arriving at the detention center daily, the sorting process resulted in the expenditure of numerous man hours.

Smith said the deputies could be handling other tasks instead.

From a safety standpoint, the new policy eliminates the chance of drugs, gang correspondence, and possibly escape plans to be delivered to inmates, Smith said.

Smith concedes the rule may appear to be a hassle to the inmate and their families, but emphasizes that is a safety and man power issue.

“This procedure is being used all over the nation and we researched it before we implemented it fully,” he said.