Results of Coles County Jail 2023 Compliance Monitoring Report

For Immediate Release – October 9, 2023

I am honored to announce that the Coles County Jail has recently completed the annual inspection process through the Illinois Department of Corrections, and our facility has been declared compliant with all aspects of Illinois County Jail Standards. These inspections are very thorough, as the IDOC inspector not only inspects the facility itself but also reviews our polices, practices, and training requirements.

Since the 2022 report, the Coles County Sheriff Office has purchased educational materials (printed in both English and Spanish) covering topics such as parenting, stress management, anger management, conflict resolution, and living on the outside. Various religious works, including Bibles, were added to the inmate library. The inmate booking program was replaced with a more efficient integrated document management system, and a fingerprinting system which captures finger electronically was purchased. Lt. Kyle Childress, who is in command of the corrections staff, implemented a culinary program allowing detainees to secure a food service certification.

I am incredibly proud of the commitment and dedication of the entire CCSO staff. Every member has played a part in making this successful inspection possible, and I appreciate their efforts. We will continue to work hard to keep our facility safe, clean, and secure.

Kent Martin

Sheriff

Criminal Justice Specialist Kathy Melvin monitored the Coles County Jail on September 20, 2023. Entrance and exit interviews were conducted with Jail Administrator Lieutenant Kyle Childress.

IMPROVEMENTS SINCE LAST COMPLIANCE MONITORING

Uniforms, disposable coveralls, disposable undergarments, mattresses and covers, towels, and shower curtains were purchased.
A culinary program was established which allows detainees to secure a food service certification.
A mini refrigerator for storing detainees’ breast milk was purchased.
Various religious books and bibles were purchased. Shelving was added in the booking area for the religious materials.
Educational materials in both English and Spanish were purchased. Topics covered are parenting, stress management, anger management, conflict resolution, and living on the outside.
Numerous books were added to the detainees’ library.
The first-floor hallways were painted.
A duffle bag was purchased to hold items used during the transport of detainees.
The booking program was replaced with a more efficient integrated document management system.
The facility purchased a fingerprinting system which captures finger and palm prints electronically.