Detention Center History
The history of Johnston County correctional facility is a testament to the changing attitudes towards crime and punishment in the United States. The evolution of the county's detention center reflects the ongoing struggle to balance the need for public safety with the rights of the accused. In this article, we will explore the history of Johnston County Jail, its early history, changes over time, and the modern facility it has become. We will also examine the role that the Johnston County Detention Center plays in the local and regional criminal justice system.
CLICK HERE to Search for Incarcerated Friends or Family Members
Early History of the Detention Center
The early history of the Johnston County Detention Center is closely tied to the development of the county itself. In the early years, there were no formal jails or detention centers. Law enforcement officers would simply lock up offenders in makeshift cells until they could be transported to a county jail in a neighboring county. The first formal jail in Johnston County was constructed in the early 1800s, and it was a small, one-room building made of brick and stone.
As the county's population grew, so did the need for a more substantial detention center. In 1872, the county built a new jail that was considered state of the art for its time. The two-story brick building had separate cells for men and women, as well as a sheriff's residence on the first floor. However, this facility soon proved to be inadequate to meet the needs of the growing county.
Changes Over Time
In the early 1900s, the county constructed a new jail on the site of the old one. This new facility was designed to be more secure and to accommodate the growing number of inmates. The jail included a maximum-security area, a work-release area, and a kitchen and dining area.
Throughout the years, the Johnston County Detention Center underwent numerous renovations and upgrades. In the 1970s, a new annex was added to the facility, which provided additional space for inmates and staff. In the 1990s, a new administration building was constructed, which housed the sheriff's office and other administrative functions.
Modern Facility
Today, the Johnston County Detention Center is a state-of-the-art facility that is equipped with modern technology and designed to provide a safe and secure environment for both inmates and staff. The facility has a capacity of 360 inmates and includes separate areas for minimum, medium, and maximum-security inmates.
The detention center is staffed by trained and experienced professionals who are responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of the inmates in their care. They are also responsible for maintaining order and discipline within the facility, and for providing inmates with access to a range of services and programs. One of the critical services provided by the detention center is medical and dental care. Inmates have access to a full-time medical staff, including doctors and nurses, who are available to provide medical and dental care as needed. In addition, the facility offers mental health services, including counseling and therapy, to inmates who require it.
Another essential service provided by the Johnston County Detention Center is substance abuse treatment. The facility offers a range of programs designed to help inmates overcome addiction and develop the skills they need to lead a sober and productive life after their release.
Furthermore, the detention center provides educational and vocational programs to inmates, including GED classes, computer training, and job skills training. These programs help inmates develop the skills they need to succeed in life after their release, which reduces the likelihood of recidivism and improves public safety.
The Role of the Johnston County Detention Center in the Local and Regional Criminal Justice System
The Johnston County Detention Center is a critical component of the local and regional criminal justice system. Its primary role is to provide secure and humane confinement for individuals who have been arrested and charged with criminal offenses in Johnston County and the surrounding areas.
The detention center serves as a holding facility for individuals who are awaiting trial or sentencing. It also houses individuals who have been sentenced to serve time in jail for misdemeanor and felony offenses. In addition, the detention center may hold individuals who are being held on behalf of other law enforcement agencies or immigration authorities.
The Johnston County Detention Center plays a significant role in ensuring public safety by providing a secure and controlled environment for incarcerated individuals. It also provides essential services to those who are housed there, including medical care, mental health services, and educational and vocational programs.
Moreover, the detention center is responsible for maintaining accurate records of all individuals who are housed there, including their personal information, charges, and legal status. This information is crucial for ensuring that the criminal justice system operates fairly and efficiently.