Detention Center History

Wallace County Jail, located in Sharon Springs, Kansas, has a rich and storied history that spans over a century. From its early days as a simple stone building to its modern-day operations as a state-of-the-art correctional facility, the jail has played a key role in the criminal justice system of Wallace County and the surrounding region.

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Early Days and Construction

The Wallace County Jail was first constructed in 1910, during a time when many rural counties in Kansas were struggling to provide adequate facilities for their growing inmate populations. The original jail was a simple stone building, designed to house a maximum of 12 inmates at a time.

Over the years, the jail underwent several renovations and expansions to keep up with the changing needs of the community. In 1955, a new addition was built to increase the capacity of the jail to 24 inmates. However, by the 1980s, the facility was showing its age and was in need of significant repairs and upgrades.

Modernization and Expansion

In 1992, a major renovation and expansion project was undertaken to modernize the jail and bring it up to contemporary standards. The project included the construction of a new, larger facility adjacent to the original stone building, as well as the installation of new technology and security systems.

The new facility featured a modern design with state-of-the-art security features, including electronic surveillance systems and controlled access points. It also included a larger inmate capacity, with the ability to house up to 62 inmates at a time.

Current Operations and Programs

Today, the Wallace County Jail continues to serve the needs of the community by providing a safe and secure environment for inmates and staff alike. The facility is staffed by a team of trained professionals who are dedicated to maintaining high standards of safety, security, and rehabilitation.

In addition to its core mission of housing inmates, the jail also offers a range of programs and services aimed at helping inmates prepare for life outside of prison. These include educational and vocational training programs, substance abuse counseling, and mental health services.

The Future of Wallace County Jail

Looking ahead, the Wallace County Jail is committed to continuing its legacy of service to the community by remaining at the forefront of innovation and best practices in correctional operations. With a focus on safety, security, and rehabilitation, the jail will continue to play a vital role in the criminal justice system of Wallace County and the state of Kansas for years to come.