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Sheriff: Two Bridges jail holds about 140; commissioners approve surplus sale and new ballistic vests
Summary
Lincoln County commissioners heard a sheriff report that Two Bridges jail held about 140 inmates with a high pre-trial population, approved authorization to sell surplus cruiser equipment, and authorized purchase of six ballistic vests (total $10,362) with federal grant reimbursement expected to cover roughly half.
The Lincoln County commissioners on Wednesday heard from the sheriff that the county’s share of the Two Bridges jail population was about 140 inmates and approved several public-safety items, including a surplus-equipment sale and the purchase of six ballistic vests.
“The Two Bridges count this morning is about 140. We have 29, 16 from Saget Hawk, 53 from Knox, 41 from Ponobska, and two U.S. Marshals’ inmates,” the sheriff reported, noting the county continues to carry a relatively large pre-trial population compared with sentenced inmates. He said an alternative-sentencing program (ASP) operating at Waggas this week likely diverted several people who otherwise would be in the pre-trial group.
The sheriff told the board he would like permission to offer a set of retired cruiser items — light bars, cages, wiring harnesses and mounts — through the county’s online auction vendor. The commissioners moved and approved the sale authorization by voice vote.
The board also approved a purchase authorization for six ballistic vests from DCF Investigation Services for $10,362. County staff said the department applies annually for a Department of Justice “bulletproof partnership” grant that will reimburse about half the vests’ cost, leaving the county responsible for the balance. The motion passed by voice vote.
Commissioners and the sheriff discussed the operational effects of a high pre-trial population, including fewer sentenced individuals available for community work crews and programs. The sheriff and commissioners emphasized diversion and alternative-sentencing options as ways to reduce pre-trial stays and expand in-custody programming.
Next steps: staff will prepare the inventory list of surplus items for the online auction and proceed with the vest purchase under the approved authorization. The board moved into later business and ultimately entered executive session for personnel matters.
