The Lancaster County Department of Corrections released information Friday about overcrowding at the Lancaster County Jail. The operational capacity is 665 and the jail’s population reached 696 on Friday.
As a result, some female inmates are being housed at the Washington County Jail which should allow Lancaster County to provide secure housing to the remainder of the population.
The full news release from Lancaster County is below;
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Lancaster County Jail to House Incarcerated Individuals at Washington County Jail
Lincoln, NE – June 30, 2023 – The Lancaster County Department of Corrections reports that due to capacity issues certain incarcerated individuals will be housed offsite at the Washington County Jail.
The Lancaster County Jail’s current operational capacity is 665, and the operational capacity for female individuals is 107. As of this morning, out of a total of 696 incarcerated individuals, 133 female individuals were housed at the Lancaster County Jail, pushing population beyond its operational capacity.
The steps taken today to house portions of the population of incarcerated female individuals at the Washington County Jail will help ensure the Lancaster County Jail can fulfill its top priority of providing safe and secure housing to those entrusted to its care.
The Lancaster County Department of Corrections looks forward to working with local criminal justice system stakeholders to identify meaningful and consistent innovations at all points of the criminal justice system that will allow the Lancaster County Jail to safely return to regular protocols within operational capacity.
Jail Administration extends our gratitude to our current staff who work courageously and tirelessly to maintain the safety and security of our facility and provide compassionate care to our inmates. We also extend our sincere appreciation to our colleagues in Washington County for their partnership and professionalism.
As an integral part of the criminal justice system, the Lancaster County Department of Corrections provides community safety through secure, legal, and compassionate adult detention. We achieve this through the recruitment and development of professional staff members who provide services which promote personal growth and reduce recidivism of those in our charge.
Established in 1859, Lancaster County is Nebraska’s second most populated county. Home to the University of Nebraska – Lincoln, Lancaster County is a growing and dynamic community. In collaboration with the City of Lincoln, Lancaster County provides a variety of services for residents and has been nationally recognized for its cooperation and progressive attitude in service to residents.
For more information about Lancaster County, please visit the website at www.lancaster.ne.gov or call 402-441-7447.