New electronic tablets serve as re-entry tool for inmates at Ventura County facilities
VENTURA COUNTY, Calif. - There's a new link to the outside world for inmates at the Pre-Trial Detention Facility in Ventura and the Todd Road Jail in Santa Paula, thanks to the Ventura County Sheriff's Office.
More than 1,200 electronic tablets were distributed this week to help ramp up communication tools, media offerings and free educational and transitional resources. Sheriff Bill Ayub said this is a great way to help prepare and transition inmates for re-entry back into the community, connect with friends and relatives and reduce recidivism.
“I believe a safe community is achieved by engaging those who commit crime in a constructive way, while also holding them accountable for their acts,” said Sheriff Ayub. “If we do not provide someone with a path for improvement, we cannot expect their behavior or decision making to change. The tablets extend an opportunity for progress to those incarcerated in our jails.”
Securus Technologies provided the tables, free of charge. The electronic devices are the newest tablet devices in the corrections industry. Inmates can also opt for a low-cost monthly subscription account and use the tablet to place phone calls, watch movies, play games and listen to music.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office does not receive commissions directly from any of the fees or purchases. Proceeds are deposited into the inmate welfare fund. By law, those funds can only be used for programs that directly benefit those housed within the Ventura County Jail, such as educational programs and services.
