Sheriff Doug Darr announces the installation and the activation of a new inmate video visitation system in the Adams County Jail.  The new system was activated Sept. 25.  The new video system replaces the customary way inmate visitation is conducted at the Adams County Jail.

For several years, family or friends visiting inmates could only visit on a designated day and time based on the inmate’s first initial of their last name.  Visitors had to register one hour prior to the schedule time.  After registering a visitor would wait until their name was called, go through a metal detector and/or search, and walk down to the designed housing unit.  Once in the non-contact visiting room, the visitor and inmate would talk on a phone looking at each other through safety glass.  Under the old system, visitors were only allowed one visit every two weeks for 30 minutes.

Captain Jim Wilbourn, the jail division commander, said, “The old system of visitation is slowly disappearing across the nation.  The advances in technology for jails today, is extremely beneficial when it comes to staffing issues, safety issues, and cost.

The new system, which was installed by Multimedia Telesys Inc., will improve the efficiency of the visitation process.  The new system virtually eliminates contraband infiltration, and reduces staffing issues associated with inmate visitation.  A total of 88 video screens have been installed throughout the jail.  Twenty-eight of the video booths have been placed in the lobby area for family and friends.  The automated system is user friendly, and gives instructions in English and in Spanish.

The new video system allows family and friends to visit once a week instead of every other week, for a period of 30 minutes.  Family or friends can visit between the hours of 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., or 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. seven-days a week.  Visitors will need to check-in at the front desk and complete a visitation slip.  They then go to a video booth, follow the instructions, pick up the phone, and visit with their love one.

Inmates housed in the medical unit can only have visits between 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. or 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.  Juveniles inmates (under 18-years of age) may receive visits from immediate family members daily, during the designated times listed above.Adult friends of juveniles (18-years of age or older) must follow the regular schedule.

Sheriff Doug Darr said, “This new wave of technological innovation is critical in today’s criminal justice system.  We are continually seeking out ways to improve security, utilize staff members in a more efficient way, and provide adequate access to family and friends.  This system will address and meet all of those needs.”