The Success of the Inmate Workforce

By Sheriff Frank Reynolds

If you have been to one of our county parks over the last couple of years, you may have seen a new addition: the Cherokee Sheriffs Office (CSO) Inmate Workforce. Dressed in a traditional black and white uniform, they are distinctly visible against the landscape while mowing the grass and picking up trash.

A few years ago, the Cherokee Board of Commissioners (BOC) signed a parks and recreation bond to enhance the quality of life for our citizens. To save taxpayer dollars, and to afford inmates an opportunity to work off sentences, the CSO and the BOC partnered to keep county parks in good order.

Currently, the CSO has three inmate crews that are supervised by a deputy sheriff. Each crew consists of an armed deputy with three to five inmates. Each inmate is selected by utilizing a safety matrix to ensure quality and control. Only non-violent offenders are selected and are closely supervised by the deputy. The inmates volunteer to participate in the program, and if selected, are afforded a reduced sentence.
Our team is led by Cpl. Larry West. Cpl. West is an intimidating 62, 325 pounds and looks like a Scottish highlander. His other crews are supervised by Deputy Brown and Deputy Lingerfelt, both experienced deputies.

Every time I see a crew out working, I make a point to stop and shake each hand to express my sincere appreciation for their hard work. It has been my experience that these men know they have made a mistake, or a series of mistakes, yet appear to be taking proactive steps in the right direction.

Last year, I had a crew member visit me after serving his sentence. Ill call him John. John is a big man and a hard worker. I first noticed him due to his strong work ethic and his distinct voice when he said, Mornin, Mr. Reynolds. Being on the crew is not easy and certainly not for the faint of heart.

When I got to work on the morning of Johns visit, we met in the parking lot. Dressed in his newly acquired civilian clothes, he extended a firm handshake and a sincere, Thank you. We went to my office, and he spoke about his new path and his life goals. I was privileged to listen to Johns story, and I was moved by his words. At the conclusion of the meeting, we shook hands, and he gave me a bro-hug. Id be lying if I told you I wasnt a little choked up. Last I heard, he was working with his dad and doing well.

It has been my experience that we are all one bad decision away from finding ourselves in an unfortunate circumstance. Usually, its self-inflicted. Yet, we can all redeem ourselves if we choose to do so. Its never easy, but all things are possible.

John, I hope you are doing well and keeping your word. God bless.