Detention Center History
The Reuben Long Detention Center is a correctional facility named after Reuben Long, a former sheriff of Horry County who served from 1936 to 1950. The detention center serves as the primary correctional facility for the county, housing inmates charged with crimes ranging from misdemeanors to felonies.
Additionally, this jail is responsible for transporting inmates to and from court appearances, medical appointments, and other necessary locations. It also offers inmate programs and services, including educational and vocational training, and substance abuse treatment
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Early History of the Reuben Long Detention Center
The early history of the Reuben Long Detention Center dates back to the 1970s. This was when the population of Horry County began to grow rapidly. The county's jail facility was deemed inadequate to meet the needs of the increasing number of inmates. As a result, the Horry County Council decided to build a new correctional facility.
Construction of the Reuben Long Detention Center began in 1972 and took three years to complete. At this time, the facility was considered a state-of-the-art facility, with modern amenities and technology ahead of its time. The design was to make it more efficient than the previous jail facility, focusing on rehabilitation and reducing recidivism rates. It included classrooms and vocational training areas to help inmates develop skills that could help them reintegrate into society.
The original capacity of the Reuben Long Detention Center was 152 inmates, with separate housing areas for men and women. The center was staffed by a team of correctional officers, medical professionals, and support staff who worked to ensure the safety and well-being of the inmates.
What Changes Has the Jail Experienced Over Time?
Over the years, the Reuben Long Detention Center has undergone several changes to adapt to the changing needs of Horry County's growing population. For instance, 1986 saw the construction of a new annex, which increased the center's capacity to 284 inmates. This addition helped to alleviate overcrowding and provide more space for inmates.
Further, a second expansion was completed in 1994, which brought the total capacity of the Reuben Long Detention Center to 564 inmates. This expansion included the addition of a new medical unit, a mental health unit, and a booking area.
In addition to physical expansions, the Reuben Long Detention Center has also undergone several renovations and upgrades. For example, the center has invested in new security technology, such as video surveillance systems, to enhance safety and security. Additionally, it has added new programs and services for inmates, such as educational and vocational training, substance abuse treatment, mental health services, and religious services.
Despite these improvements, the Reuben Long Detention Center has also faced challenges. A good example is a lawsuit filed in 2018 alleging inhumane living conditions, including overcrowding and unsanitary conditions. In response to the lawsuit, the county agreed to implement several changes to improve conditions at the center, including hiring additional medical staff, improving sanitation practices, and addressing overcrowding
The Current State of the Facility
The Reuben Long Detention Center continues to operate as the primary correctional facility for Horry County, South Carolina. The facility has a capacity of 572 inmates and houses both male and female inmates. It offers these inmates various programs and services for inmates aimed at reducing recidivism rates and preparing inmates for their return to society. These programs include educational and vocational training, substance abuse treatment, mental health, and religious services.
The Role of the Reuben Long Detention Center in the Local and Regional Criminal Justice System
The Reuben Long Detention Center plays a crucial role in the local and regional criminal justice system of Horry County, South Carolina. For instance, it works closely with local law enforcement agencies and the courts to ensure that criminals are in a safe and secure environment.
Additionally, the center collaborates with other regional criminal justice agencies and organizations to address broader public safety and criminal justice issues. This includes working with local community organizations to provide reentry services for inmates returning to the community. It also partners with law enforcement agencies to address the problems related to substance abuse, mental health, and other factors that contribute to criminal behavior.