I’m proud to share the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Inmate Reception Center (IRC) has unveiled its new Mental Health processing area. In the past, IRC faced significant overcrowding, which resulted in long wait times and slow movement through the system. We knew we needed to find ways to expedite the process while improving the care and conditions within our jails.
With the growing number of individuals entering county jails who are experiencing mental health challenges, we were faced with making drastic changes. Thanks to AB109 funding approved by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, we were able to move forward with this remodeling project.
The new area is much larger and designed to provide more privacy and confidentiality. It includes additional assessment windows and offers a quieter space for mental health processing and staging. Our goal is to create an environment where individuals feel more comfortable sharing their mental health concerns. This improvement will also help our mental health staff work more efficiently and speed up the overall process.
We hope this new space strengthens our compliance, progress, and trajectory under the County of Los Angeles/Department of Justice Settlement Agreement. Ultimately, these changes go beyond Custody Operations and reflect our commitment to positive reform.
I want to express my appreciation to the many partners who contributed to this project’s success, including the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, particularly Supervisors Kathryn Barger and Janice Hahn for establishing the capital fund, and Supervisor Hilda Solis and former Supervisor Sheila Kuehl for their leadership in addressing overcrowding at IRC. Special thanks also goes to the Chief Executive Office (CEO) Asset Management Team, DOJ Compliance Team, Internal Services Department (ISD) Project Team, and the dedicated professionals at Correctional Health Services. I also want to thank the Justice Care and Opportunities Department (JCOD).
Recently, I joined our partners from the @ladaoffice, Correctional Health Services, the Office of Inspector General, the Civilian Oversight Commission, representatives from the @CountyofLA Board of Supervisors, and our dedicated @lasdcustody personnel to celebrate the achievements of more than 100 incarcerated individuals at the Fifth Annual Forensic In-Patient (FIP) Stepdown Program.
Hearing the participant’s testimonials was truly inspiring. The FIP Program offers a compassionate, peer-driven approach to supporting incarcerated individuals living with mental illness, with Mental Health Assistants serving as mentors alongside medical and custody staff.
The program’s success has led to an annual graduation that honors both the participants and the department’s commitment to excellence in our custody facilities.
Our Inmate Services Bureau in partnership with “Jail Guitar Doors”, celebrated a certificate ceremony at Twin Towers Correctional Facility (TTCF). Inmates were honored with participation certificates following the 10-week program where these inmates learned how to play guitar.
Earlier today, I had the privilege of standing with our dedicated Custody Division personnel as we announced the launch of Body-Worn Cameras (BWC) within the Custody division — a historic first for the Los Angeles County jail system.
This milestone reflects our commitment to embracing evolving technology and equipping our staff with the best tools available. Body-Worn Cameras add an important layer of transparency and accountability, helping us create a safer environment for both our personnel and those entrusted to our care.
LASD Food Services Unit is pleased to announce the implementation of a new innovative pre-portioned hot meal program which employs the Cook Chill System at Men’s Central Jail. This innovative program creates meals in-house, ensuring freshness, consistency, and sustainability.
North County Correctional Facility hosted a Personal Finance Awareness session as part of our ongoing Wellness Campaign. LASD is proud to support our personnel with resources that promote growth, empowerment, and long-term financial stability.
Recently, LASD personnel from Custody Division participated in a Tip-A-Cop event at BJ’s Restaurant. Our deputies served as "celebrity waiters" to raise funds by gathering tips to benefit the Special Olympics Southern California athletes.
"The clock is running. Make the most of today. Time waits for no man. Yesterday is history.
Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift. That's why it is called the present." - Alice Morse Earle
Enjoy the good tidings of #2020, be well & stay safe!
Have a happy #NewYear! #LASD
#LASD The holiday season is about spending your time meaningfully, with the people closest to your heart. From the men and women of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, have a very Merry Christmas. 🎄
#LASD Retired Deputy Mike Mrakich, a #veteran of the @USArmy, #WWI & @LAPDHQ, rcvd his “Distinguished Expert”shooting pin in 1943, identifying him as an exceptional marksman. His grandson, current LASD Sgt. Mrakich, kept the tradition alive when he rcvd the same recognition.
#TBT 1970 #LASD deps treat every call equally serious, including a recent station tour by a group of 5yr olds @WHDLASD Of course, we also like to have fun with youngsters, and establishing the groundwork for friendship and understanding! #communitypolicing https://t.co/rMvosWQ5p8
#FraudFriday#LASD warns fancy phones can’t stop thieves from stealing your finances or identity if you don’t take the extra precaution in protecting your personal information. SIM card swap scam!
https://t.co/EE6SBFvdwc
#ThrowbackThursday#1980s@CarsonLASD Team.#LASD has a competitive athletics tradition.LASD’s Semi Annual “World Serious” & Sgt. Brian Wilson Memorial #Softball Tourn is held to honor Sgt. Brian Wilson. This year’s championship went to @NorwalkLASD again! https://t.co/wbL6C3zSW7
#FraudFriday#LASD warns motorists about thieves who lead you to believe your vehicle is broken down and lure you into handing your keys to a fake mechanic. This scam is on the rise, and it’s catching victims by surprise!
https://t.co/j0tVsj3At6