Detention director outlines accreditation work, RISE program and portable building plans

Ward Manazzola, detention center director, told commissioners the facility was preparing for accreditation and planned a mock walkthrough with outside auditors later in the summer and a formal inspection in the fall ahead of a March 2026 deadline.

Manazzola said the county’s detention population was 93 on Jan. 31, with an average daily population of 93 for January; the facility’s rated capacity is about 95–100. He said the jail was using temporary booking and observation cells to stabilize detainees who arrive in detox or with severe mental illness and that medical staff and jail clinicians work to stabilize people so they can return to general population.

The director described plans to place a portable building into service for RISE program activities and family reunification visits; he said the portable building would also house a greenhouse so RISE participants could learn horticulture, grow produce and use shared meals to facilitate family connection. Manazzola said several sergeants and corporals were promoted and that supervisor meetings are being held weekly to strengthen policies and accountability during the accreditation process.

Manazzola said the facility is halfway through updating medical-related accreditation elements and that the county is working with Dona Ana detention staff for guidance on documentation and standards. No formal action was taken. Commissioners asked for a scheduled inspection date and for continued updates on accreditation progress and staffing.