Program could operate for less than the cost of jail expansion
The Howard County Jail is facing a crisis. Already housing as many as 400 inmates during the summer when numbers peak, the change in state law regarding felons may push the jail population to its limit and beyond.
Since 1995, Howard County has considered the creation of a work release program which could alleviate a portion of the jail population. According to Community Corrections director Ray Tetrault, the program is long overdue for adoption.
“Work release serves as a bridge between life in prison and life in the community,” said Tetrault.