Hubbard County Jail

Introduction

The Hubbard County Sheriff’s Office in Minnesota has taken a proactive step to combat the increasing issue of drug smuggling, particularly fentanyl, into its jail facilities. Recognizing the serious threat posed by these substances, the Sheriff’s Office decided to invest in a state-of-the-art body scanning system. To address this critical need, they selected CLEARPASS Ci body scanner from LINEV Systems, headquartered in Conroe, Texas, at a cost of $172,664. This decision came after extensive research, including visits to other facilities that have successfully implemented similar technologies.

Technology

CLEARPASS Ci body scanner was chosen for its advanced features that set it apart from other options on the market. One of the key benefits of this system is its compact design, which allows for greater mobility within the facility. The scanner can easily fit through standard doorways and can be relocated as necessary, offering flexibility that is crucial in a correctional environment. In addition to its physical attributes, CLEARPASS Ci is equipped with sophisticated software designed to enhance the detection of contraband hidden within the body, including substances concealed in challenging ways, such as inside balloons. This advanced software plays a critical role in identifying items that might otherwise go undetected by less sophisticated systems.

Solution

The decision to purchase CLEARPASS Ci body scanner was included in the Sheriff’s Office’s 2024 budget, with the funds allocated from the county’s capital improvement fund. The selection process involved careful consideration of the available options, with CLEARPASS Ci standing out not only for its technical capabilities but also for its practical advantages. Sheriff Cory Aukes emphasized that while CLEARPASS Ci was more expensive than the $147,500 alternative, its superior features made it the right choice for the county’s needs. The system’s mobility, ease of integration into the existing facility layout, and enhanced detection capabilities were decisive factors in this choice. The goal was to equip the jail with a tool that could significantly reduce the risk of contraband, particularly fentanyl, entering the facility, thus safeguarding both inmates and staff.

Results Obtained

Since the implementation of CLEARPASS Ci body scanner, the Hubbard County Jail has seen a marked improvement in its ability to detect and prevent the smuggling of drugs, especially fentanyl, into the facility. The scanner’s advanced software has proven effective in identifying concealed contraband that might have otherwise entered the jail undetected. This has been particularly important in preventing instances where inmates smuggle drugs into the facility by hiding them in body cavities, which are difficult to search without just cause. By identifying and intercepting these substances before they can cause harm, the Sheriff’s Office has significantly reduced the risk of overdoses and other drug-related incidents within the jail. Additionally, the mobility and ease of use of CLEARPASS Ci have allowed the jail staff to operate more efficiently, ensuring that the scanner can be utilized in various locations within the facility as needed.

Conclusion

The investment in CLEARPASS Ci body scanner by the Hubbard County Sheriff’s Office underscores their commitment to maintaining a secure and drug-free environment within their jail facilities. The decision to opt for a more expensive, but significantly more advanced, system reflects the Sheriff’s Office’s proactive approach to addressing modern law enforcement challenges. By equipping the jail with CLEARPASS Ci, the Sheriff’s Office has enhanced its ability to detect and prevent the smuggling of dangerous substances like fentanyl, thereby protecting the health and safety of both inmates and staff. This initiative, combined with regional law enforcement cooperation through mutual aid agreements, positions the Hubbard County Sheriff’s Office as a leader in adopting innovative solutions to contemporary security issues.