Auditors from the American Correctional Association have been evaluating the Knox County Detention Facility from May 28-30 and on Friday issued their findings.  The facility achieved 100% on the mandatory standards and 99% on the non-mandatory standards.  The auditors looked at everything inside the facility and commented on the cleanliness and friendliness of the staff.  They also noted that the inmates had very few complaints.  The auditors suggested that the intake center should be larger given that nearly 30,000 inmates are processed through the area yearly. 

Corrections Chief Rodney Bivens said he and the staff are already working on a plan of action to bring the non-mandatory to a 100% score.  Those were issuing more underwear to inmates during intake and providing more recreational activities in outdoor areas.  The auditors also suggested that correctional officers’ pay be equal to patrol officers. 

This is the 5th audit conducted at the facility and it has always scored in the top 90s.  The ACA team has labeled the detention facility as “elite.”  Sheriff Jimmy “J.J.” Jones said he is thrilled with the score and that the people of Knox County should be pleased with the pride that the men and women at the detention facility take in their work.

The ACA conducts the audit every three years as mandated by the County Commission and for the facility to maintain its accreditation. 

The facility has 964 beds, including medical, and houses minimum, medium, and maximum female and male inmates.