Santa Fe County Jail discusses new transportation options for inmate reentry

The Santa Fe County Board of County Commissioners held a special meeting on May 20, 2025, focusing on the county's reentry programs and the challenges faced by individuals transitioning from incarceration back into society. The meeting featured various stakeholders, including representatives from local organizations and the Santa Fe County Jail, who discussed the importance of support systems for recently released inmates.

The meeting began with testimonials from individuals who have participated in the matrix and reentry programs. One participant emphasized the positive impact of these initiatives, stating that they could have significantly reduced recidivism rates if implemented earlier. The participant expressed gratitude for the support received, highlighting the program's role in helping individuals reintegrate into the community.

Betty Cisneros Schover, Executive Director of NAMI Santa Fe, spoke about the organization's efforts to provide support for individuals with mental illness and their families. She highlighted the importance of community resources, including behavioral health and substance use treatment services, particularly for those facing homelessness after incarceration.

Connor Capito from the Engage Program discussed the importance of diversions and social referrals for individuals coming from the jail system. Devin Baldwin, a navigator with Santa Fe County Community Services, emphasized the need for awareness of available resources to assist with reintegration.

The meeting also addressed the logistical challenges associated with inmate releases from the Santa Fe County Jail. A representative detailed the current practices for inmate transportation upon release, noting that every released inmate is offered a ride. However, challenges arise due to the jail's inability to detain individuals beyond their court-ordered release time, leading some to choose to walk rather than wait for transportation.

Concerns were raised about pedestrian safety, particularly along Highway 14, which is not maintained by the county. The representative noted that Santa Fe County has a high rate of pedestrian accidents, exacerbated by a lack of infrastructure such as sidewalks and lighting.

The discussion included data on release times, revealing that the majority of releases occur during the day, with a smaller number at night. Factors influencing these times include court schedules and bond payments. The representative also shared plans for improving the release process, including enhancing visibility for released individuals and exploring ride-sharing options.

Looking ahead, the county plans to invest in the remodel and expansion of the Adult Detention Facility (ADF) to better support reentry services. A proposed budget of $250,000 for FY '26 aims to create a more welcoming environment for individuals awaiting transportation and to integrate community services into the release process.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the importance of collaborative efforts to enhance reentry services and address the challenges faced by individuals transitioning from incarceration. The county is committed to improving transportation options and creating a supportive environment to facilitate successful reintegration into the community.