The Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office is actively working to enhance the care provided to the chronically ill and mentally ill inmate population within their facility. They have embarked on a substantial reconstruction overhaul with the aim of ensuring the highest standard of care for these individuals. Sheriff Keybo Taylor, the first African American to be elected Sheriff in the history of the Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office, has been dedicated to improving mental health care within the community and the jail facility.
The Gwinnett County Jail currently accommodates approximately 2,250 inmates, a quarter of whom require specialized treatment for various medical conditions, ambulatory limitations, suicidal tendencies, and assistance with opioid and alcohol withdrawal. Acknowledging the growing inmate population and their specific needs, Sheriff Taylor and his team are taking proactive measures to address these challenges.
The primary objective of the reconstruction overhaul is to renovate, modernize, and update different areas of the facility. By consolidating inmates who require specialized custodial resources near the in-house hospital, the sheriff’s office aims to eliminate barriers and provide easier access to the required specialty care. This approach ensures that all inmates receive the necessary medical attention and treatment they need. The announcement of this plan was shared on the Gwinnett County Sheriff Office Facebook post, and residents of Gwinnett County expressed their thoughts on it.
As part of this reconstruction process, the unit currently dedicated to the Jail Dogs Program will be reassigned to individuals whose conditions necessitate their location on the first floor with direct access to the hospital. The Jail Dogs Program, which began in 2010 as a collaboration between the Sheriff’s Office and the Society of Humane Friends, has been a remarkable success. Throughout the years, it has facilitated the adoption of approximately 1,500 cats and dogs from shelters and provided vocational skills to inmates, equipping them for success after their release from custody.
While the temporary suspension of the Jail Dogs Program is unfortunate, Sheriff Taylor emphasizes its necessity in creating an optimal environment for all inmates. The Sheriff’s Office is fully committed to finding adoptive homes for the remaining dogs, including Kaiser, Nala, Rocky, and Tien. Those interested in providing a home for these dogs can find more information on the Society of Humane Friends’ website at www.sohfga.com.
Recognizing the significance of mental health in the community, Sheriff Keybo Taylor and the Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office have placed a strong emphasis on specialized care for inmates and invested in therapeutic programs. Their commitment to this cause demonstrates their dedication to creating a safer and more supportive environment within the facility. Moreover, they serve as an example for other law enforcement agencies, highlighting the importance of addressing the mental health needs of incarcerated individuals.
Written By: Calvin Woods
