Jackson County approves video-only visitation at correctional facility

Jackson County commissioners voted to end in-person visitation at the Jackson County Correctional Facility and move to a free, recorded video visitation system.

Chief Jeter (speaker 17), who spoke during the presentation of the item, said staff had researched neighboring counties and confirmed many nearby facilities already use video-only visitation. "They can do this from anywhere, your car, their house," Chief Jeter said, noting the county has applied for a grant for a body scanner and recently deployed tablets to facilitate video and two free phone calls per week to each inmate.

Chief Jeter and staff described the change as driven by concerns about contraband and visitor altercations at the facility. He told commissioners the video visits will be recorded and monitored by jail staff and accessible to law enforcement and prosecutors. Commissioners discussed fairness, infrastructure and whether the switch would limit family contact; supporters said recorded visits improve safety and reduce opportunities for smuggling.

The board approved the policy change by motion and voice vote. Staff said the proposed system includes monitoring protocols and recording access for the sheriff's office, the state's attorney and local law enforcement.