History

This site is not owned or operated by any state government agency, read more.

Branch County Jail is a correctional facility located in Coldwater, Branch County, Michigan. It is the county's primary jail and houses inmates awaiting trial, convicted of crimes, and sentenced to serve time in jail.

The Branch County Jail was first established in 1837, shortly after the county was formed. The original jail was a small, one-room building located on the courthouse square in Coldwater. As the county grew, so did the need for a larger and more secure jail.

In 1872, a new jail was built on Chicago Street in Coldwater. This jail was a two-story, brick building with 32 cells. The jail also had a sheriff's residence and a jailer's quarters.

The Chicago Street Jail served Branch County for over 100 years. However, by the 1970s, the jail was overcrowded and in need of major repairs. In 1979, a new jail was built on Garfield Avenue in Coldwater.

The Garfield Avenue Jail is a modern, 96-bed facility. The jail has a variety of security features, including a secure perimeter, video surveillance, and electronic door locks. The jail also has a medical unit, a library, and a recreation area.

The Garfield Avenue Jail is currently the main jail for Branch County. The Chicago Street Jail is still in use, but it is primarily used to house inmates who are serving short sentences or who are awaiting transfer to another facility.

Jail Programs and Services

The Branch County Jail offers a variety of programs and services to its inmates. These programs and services include:

Educational programs: The jail offers a variety of educational programs, including GED classes, adult basic education classes, and vocational training programs.
Substance abuse treatment programs: The jail offers a variety of substance abuse treatment programs, including detoxification, counseling, and support groups.
Mental health services: The jail offers a variety of mental health services, including counseling, medication management, and support groups.
Medical services: The jail offers a variety of medical services, including routine checkups, sick calls, and emergency care.
Recreational programs: The jail offers a variety of recreational programs, including basketball, volleyball, and weightlifting.
Religious services: The jail offers a variety of religious services, including Bible study groups, prayer groups, and worship services.

Jail Security

The Branch County Jail is a secure facility that utilizes a variety of security measures to protect inmates, staff, and the public. These security measures include:

Secure perimeter: The jail is surrounded by a secure perimeter fence. The fence is topped with razor wire and is patrolled by armed security guards.
Video surveillance: The jail is equipped with a comprehensive video surveillance system. The cameras monitor all areas of the jail, including the common areas, cells, and hallways.
Electronic door locks: The jail's doors are equipped with electronic door locks. These locks can only be opened by authorized personnel using a key card or a code.
Security checks: All inmates and visitors are subject to security checks before entering the jail. These checks include a pat-down search and a metal detector screening.
Contraband control: The jail has a strict policy against contraband. Contraband items, such as weapons, drugs, and alcohol, are prohibited in the jail. Inmates who are found with contraband are subject to disciplinary action.

Jail Inspections

The Branch County Jail is inspected regularly by the Michigan Department of Corrections. These inspections ensure that the jail is meeting all state and federal standards for jails. The jail is also inspected by the Branch County Sheriff's Office and the Branch County Board of Commissioners.

Jail Accreditation

The Branch County Jail is accredited by the American Correctional Association (ACA). ACA accreditation is a voluntary process that demonstrates that the jail meets or exceeds a set of national standards for jails. The jail is evaluated on a variety of factors, including security, sanitation, inmate care, and staff training.

Jail Challenges

The Branch County Jail faces a number of challenges, including:

Overcrowding: The jail is often overcrowded, which can lead to safety and security concerns.
Staffing shortages: The jail is sometimes short-staffed, which can make it difficult to provide adequate care and supervision for inmates.
Mental health issues: A significant number of inmates in the jail have mental health issues. This can make it difficult to manage their behavior and provide them with appropriate care.
Substance abuse: A significant number of inmates in the jail are struggling with substance abuse issues. This can make it difficult for them to successfully reintegrate into society after they are released from jail.

Despite these challenges, the Branch County Jail staff is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for inmates, staff, and the public. The jail staff also works to provide inmates with the programs and services they need to successfully reintegrate into society after they are released from jail.

Michigan Inmate Search