Monroe County Sheriff Ruben Martè releases images showing progress of Monroe County Jail cleanup

The Monroe County Sheriff Ruben Martè released before and after images of the cleanup progress at the jail Thursday, March 16, 2023.

Martè, who began working as Monroe County Sheriff in January, and MCSO Chief Deputy Phil Parker inherited a jail in need of cleaning, and maintenance. Images was shown of conditions in the jail as Martè appealed to county officials and the community for help.

“In Folder 1 are photos of J Block (our new mental health dormitory) after our restorative/sanitation efforts.  I have also included a few photos of how the blocks looked prior.  J block currently houses 20 of our most vulnerable residents who would benefit from a calming environment.  The color scheme for this block was designed by our mental health professionals to facilitate this to the extent possible.  Chief Deputy Parker visited this dormitory yesterday and found the inmates resting and quiet.  This is quite unusual for this segment of our population as they are usually in a state of heightened anxiety.  We are hoping this new environment will continue to help these residents find some measure of peace during their stay with us,” said Martè.

“In Folder 2 are before and after photos of our intake room.  This is the room between the sally port and the jail proper where every individual being processed into the facility enters.  In a nutshell, this small area is one of the highest use areas of the facility.  As such, it is imperative this area be sanitized regularly.  The previous condition of this area did not permit proper sanitation.  We are now able to fully sanitize this area regularly,” said Martè.

“In Folder 3 are the before and after photos of the sally port area.  As you recall, this area posed numerous safety concerns due to its initial design.  This area has been widened to help prevent vehicle strikes on the walls when maneuvering large transport vehicles though as well as additional lighting added to improve visibility.  Yellow paint also highlights certain areas to enhance driver awareness,” said Martè.

“We are now in the process of restorative/sanitation efforts in D block, which is moving along nicely.  Just yesterday, the County Council unanimously approved the Facility Coordinator position which I believe will greatly enhance our ability to bolster progress on the jail projects.  The Council’s rock-solid support has been crucial in this effort and is much appreciated,” said Martè.

“With your continued support, my staff remains committed to transitioning this facility from what we all saw on January 23 to a clean, sanitary and safe place for staff and residents.  We will continue to keep you posted,” said Martè.