INMATE LABOR PROGRAM ASSISTS AVON IN SUPERSTORM SANDY CLEANUP

The Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office Inmate Labor Program was in full in operation in Avon to help restore areas throughout the borough that were hit hard by Superstorm Sandy. For four days, five inmates were transported to the lake, the borough pool and other recreational areas which suffered damage from the storm. They cleared away fallen debris and brush, painted benches, restored the appearance of the pool area and cleaned up the lake. The Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office Inmate Labor Program offers much needed assistance to towns, and helps lessen financial burdens they face due to budget constraints. “Superstorm Sandy devastated parts of Monmouth County, and, I’m glad the sheriff’s office is able to provide such a valuable resource to municipalities through our Inmate Labor Program,” said Sheriff Shaun Golden. “The use of inmate labor to assist our communities with storm damage recovery is a costs savings example of shared services.”

The work crew from the Inmate Labor Program was in Avon from June 4th through June 7th. Offenders incarcerated for minor offenses with records of good behavior are eligible to be a part of the program. Inmates who enroll in the program participate in work projects as an alternative to spending their time in jail.

Last year, 1260 hours were dedicated to working on a range of projects through the Inmate Labor Program. The Sheriff’s Office transports and provides the security of the inmate labor crews. Requests for inmate labor teams are made to the program coordinator, Medora Morris, and are evaluated in terms of the needs and feasibility of the project. “This program not only helps the towns save money on labor but also assists the work crew in giving back to society,” said Sheriff Golden.

Past inmate labor projects have included carpentry, painting, beach cleanup, working with parks and public works departments and the restoration of historic sites including a Civil War era cemetery.