Rush County creates full-time transport officer post to ease jail transport strains; start date set for the 18th

The Rush County commissioners approved creating a full-time transport officer position to address frequent federal and local inmate transports that have strained staffing.

County staff and an agency official described a week with multiple federal transports and several local transfers, noting that each federal transport typically requires two staff (jailers or deputies). The official said those transports are reimbursed for time and mileage; the board discussed using an existing correction-officer job description or deputizing the position to meet operational needs.

Commissioners discussed funding mechanics, including the potential to transfer money from locally controlled funds and to account for Social Security and insurance costs for a full-time hire. The board moved and seconded the position approval; the motion carried. Members set a start date for the new position on the 18th.

Officials noted training expectations would align with jailer and deputy requirements for mandated trainings, including firearms and defensive training where applicable. The board instructed staff to work out the detailed job description, funding source and implementation timelines.