GIBSON CO., Ind. – Gibson County’s new jail, nearly 40 years in the making, is on the verge of completion. The $30 million facility, being built next to the old jail, promises to improve conditions for both inmates and staff, addressing longstanding concerns about overcrowding and inadequate resources.
The old jail, built in 1989, had long been a source of controversy. In 2019, a lawsuit was filed against Gibson County, citing overcrowding and understaffing that led to dangerous and violent conditions. As a result, a settlement required the county to build a new facility to address these issues. The new jail, scheduled for completion by this spring, is set to offer significant upgrades and modern amenities.
Sheriff Bruce Vanoven, who has overseen the project, said that the new facility will not only accommodate more inmates but will also offer better living conditions. “When we talk about the differences between the ’89 jail and what’s going to be our 2025 jail, there’s almost 40 years of difference in technology,” said Sheriff Vanoven.
One of the most significant changes is the new layout. Unlike the old facility, where the dispatch center was situated in the middle of the jail, the new building separates the two for improved functionality and safety. Additionally, the virtual arraignment area has been expanded from just one room to four, allowing inmates to go to court more quickly and efficiently.
In terms of security, the new facility will be equipped with a state-of-the-art video surveillance system, ensuring the entire jail is monitored 24/7. The intake area has also received an upgrade, with the installation of a full-body scanner that will help detect contraband without the need for close physical searches.
Inmate welfare has been a key focus of the new design. For example, certain isolation cells will feature advanced monitoring systems to track inmates’ respiratory rates and pulse, providing an added layer of security in case of medical emergencies or signs of suicidal behavior.
Technology has also been introduced to provide inmates with greater access to education and entertainment. A tablet system will allow inmates to access a free law library, with the option to pay for additional services such as downloading movies or sending emails.
Sheriff Vanoven emphasized that the new facility is not just about punishment but about rehabilitation. “These guys are human, and when people come to jail, it’s temporary,” he explained. “Some might go off to prison, but others are going to go right back into our community. We can either leave them bitter or better.”
The new facility, which has been designed with the future in mind, will also be more efficient in terms of staff operations. The increased space and updated technology will help address the county’s growing needs while providing a safer, more secure environment for everyone involved.
Once complete, the public will have the opportunity to tour the new jail during a scheduled walkthrough. Sheriff Vanoven is looking forward to showcasing the facility to the community, offering a glimpse into the changes that will soon take place.
As the finishing touches are added to the facility, Gibson County is on track to open a modern, state-of-the-art jail that will serve both the public and those incarcerated in the years to come.
