The community is invited to join the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office in thanking the dedicated men and women who work tirelessly to keep the Mesa County Detention Facility running smoothly. 

Today, the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office joined the Mesa County Board of Commissioners in recognizing the professionalism and dedication of our detention deputies and staff. 

Local jails, like the Mesa County Detention Facility, are complex organizations. On a basic level, a jail must provide its inmate population with a number of services, including three meals a day, medical and mental health care, clothing, visitation, recreation, religious programs, as well as access to courts and attorneys while maintaining the safety and security of the 24-hour facility. 

Over half of inmates in the Mesa County Detention Facility suffer from a mental health disorder. The jail also provides mental health services, counseling, substance abuse treatment, and assistance in transitioning out of custody to become productive members of society.

“The men and women who serve in the detention facility are the backbone of our organization and play a key role in keeping our community safe,” said Sheriff Todd Rowell. “Not only do they ensure the safety and security of everyone in our care, but they also support people in crisis who are suffering from mental illness or going through substance withdrawals. I am very proud of their work to end the cycle of victimization in our community.”

National Correctional Officers’ Week is also a time to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their community. The names of more than 750 correctional officers are engraved on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. One of those names is Mesa County Sheriff Deputy Edward Innes, who was killed by an inmate escaping the jail in 1906. A wreath displayed in the Mesa County Sheriff's Office lobby will be placed on Deputy Innes' grave this week to honor and remember his sacrifice. Learn more about Deputy Edward Innes here. 

This week the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office will be sharing more with the community about the work these men and women do to ensure our community remains a safe place to live, work, and play. Please join us in thanking these dedicated professionals.