Portage County Jail Inmate Programs

The Portage County Jail is keeping its inmates busy. Sheriff David Doak noticed the inmates playing the same board and card games over and over again and wanted to change that. With the help of Major Dale Kelly, Sheriff Doak created an inmate work program and the newest, an inmate sewing program. Inmates said that these programs have helped them gain useful knowledge and skills. The programs are also helping the jail’s budget. The inmates clean, paint, mow, sew and garden. Sheriff Doak says it is a win-win for the jail and inmates. Reporter Alaina Altieri has the details on what the programs are about.

There are a number of ways inmates can get money into their commissary accounts, check out this link.

SIDEBAR INFO

To get into the programs: Inmates must be screened

Non-violent offenders only

Good behavior

If an inmate acts up, they will be removed

Some woman can join

Commissary privileges

Out of the 238 inmates in the Portage County Jail; 25 to 30 inmates are involved in the programs at one time. That’s around only 16% of inmates.