Summit County is investing nearly $3 million in jail upgrades to improve safety, efficiency, and mental health services. The funding comes from the Ohio Jail Safety and Security Program and will fund:
- Sallyport Expansion: Streamlining the booking process for inmates.
- Pre-Booking Medical & Mental Health Area: New space for medical and mental health evaluations before booking.
- Intake Renovations: Updated intake with private screening rooms for mental health and substance use disorder assessments.
- Mental Health Recovery Units: Specialized units offering continuous medical support, medication-assisted treatment, therapy, and safer cell designs to reduce self-harm risk.
Background:
- The jail, built in 1990, houses about 570 inmates daily.
- Nearly 75% of those booked have untreated mental health or substance abuse issues.
- These improvements aim to address long-standing issues with inmate care and facility safety.
Additional Efforts:
- Earlier this year, a $187,000 opioid remediation grant funded a new Addiction Services Coordinator position within the jail.
- The county also supports the THRIVE House program, providing transitional housing and recovery support for individuals released from jail.
County Executive Ilene Shapiro remarked, “This grant is vital for modernizing the jail and enhancing public safety.” Sheriff Fatheree noted the upgrades will improve outcomes and safety for inmates and staff alike.
For More Information:
- Amy Corrigall Jones, Summit County Sheriff’s Office — acjones@sheriff.summitoh.net, (330) 643-2152
- Greta Johnson, Summit County Executive’s Office — ExecutivePress@summitoh.net, (330) 643-2656
