Sheriff: Geary County jail population falls to an average of 88; camera rollout underway

Geary County Sheriff Nate Beckman told commissioners the average daily jail population for the two-week period ending Dec. 2 was 88, a decline from recent counts near 100, and provided a summary of law-enforcement activity and an update on new surveillance equipment.

"For those two weeks, our average daily jail population was 88, which is a significant decrease from a few weeks back," Beckman said. He reported 11 accidents, 29 assists to outside agencies, two assault-and-battery incidents, 51 citations, 154 civil papers served, three DUI arrests, 137 traffic stops and 14 arrests during the period. Beckman said the agency handled a total of 526 calls for service (409 primary incidents and 117 additional calls).

Beckman also briefed commissioners on progress installing a new jail camera system. "We've had some up and running. Seem to be working great, but they're still installing quite a few more yet," he said, adding he selected a mid-grade system he believes balances longevity and cost. He told the board he plans to arrange tours for commissioners when scheduling permits.

The sheriff noted some operational considerations for a potential future facility replacement and said equipment transferability is possible but not preferable if a new building is acquired. Beckman and the undersheriff also described community engagement efforts, including a successful "Shop with a Cop" fundraiser and partnerships with regional leadership groups that visited the jail for tours.

The sheriff's presentation closed with a note that a working group on detention-center issues is scheduled for Friday and that the county will be informed if items discussed affect county interests.