Santa Fe County Jail partners with New Mexico Reentry to improve inmate support services

Santa Fe County officials are celebrating a significant partnership with New Mexico Reentry, which has already proven impactful in supporting individuals transitioning from custody back into the community. During a recent Board of County Commissioners special meeting, the success story of a female inmate, who received immediate assistance upon her release, highlighted the effectiveness of this collaboration. Within just two hours, the New Mexico Reentry team secured her temporary housing, medication, and support services, showcasing the program's swift response capabilities.

The meeting also addressed ongoing efforts to enhance inmate services through partnerships with Albuquerque Health Services and PMS, which recently received a two-year grant to provide essential health services, including dental and behavioral health care. These initiatives aim to ensure that individuals are informed about available resources and receive necessary support during and after their time in custody.

A notable achievement discussed was the implementation of electronic tablets for inmates, which have been utilized for over 10,000 hours. These tablets provide access to educational resources, family communication, and substance abuse support, contributing to a decline in inmate assaults and mischief. This innovative approach is credited with keeping inmates engaged and reducing tensions within the facility.

The meeting also touched on staffing successes, with Santa Fe County reporting zero vacancies in supervisory positions and a significant reduction in overall staff shortages. The commitment to fair salaries and supportive work environments has fostered a stable workforce dedicated to the well-being of inmates.

As the county continues to tackle the challenges of inmate care and reentry, officials remain focused on improving continuity of care for those who exit the detention facility within 48 hours. This ongoing challenge underscores the importance of building trust and engagement with individuals during their brief stays, ensuring they receive the support they need to reintegrate successfully into society.