Criminal Justice Division

The Criminal Justice Division of the Blaine County Sheriff’s Office is integral to the smooth operation of the county’s correctional and judicial systems. This division is responsible for overseeing detention facilities, ensuring court security, and executing vital legal processes to support the overall justice system.

A major responsibility of the division is the management of Bolingbroke Penitentiary, the county’s 410-bed correctional facility that can house both low and maximum-security inmates. The facility consists of 108 maximum-security beds, 116 medium-security beds, and 186 minimum-security beds, along with 236 contract beds leased to agencies from across the United States, providing additional revenue streams for the department and lessening the burden on Blaine County taxpayers. Deputies ensure the safety and security of inmates and staff by enforcing regulations, maintaining order, and ensuring that inmates have access to necessary programs for rehabilitation. The facility is equipped with a range of amenities to support the well-being of those incarcerated, including gyms, recreational rooms, classrooms, libraries, and an infirmary with a laboratory, surgical suite, and six-bed ICU. The yard features a tennis court, basketball court, pull-up bars, a community garden, and an outdoor dining area, providing opportunities for physical activity and community engagement. Additionally, the facility’s Inmate Services Office offers counseling and therapy to inmates along with education and substance abuse programs as well as early release programs, reentry support, mental health services, and legal consultations.

In addition to its role in managing the penitentiary, the Criminal Justice Division also plays a vital role in court security. Deputies provide security during court proceedings, acting as bailiffs, maintaining order in the courtroom, and supporting judges and attorneys. They are also responsible for the service and execution of various legal orders, including warrants, summons, and subpoenas, ensuring that these tasks are carried out swiftly and effectively.