In-person visits that were first halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic have resumed at Santa Cruz County’s women’s jail on Blaine Street in Santa Cruz.
“This will allow women to connect with their loved ones face-to-face and maintain vital connections that benefit women and families and aid in their reintegration into the community after release,” the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s office said in a release on Thursday.
The sheriff’s office has been criticized for what some have called an inhumane ban on in-person visitation at the county’s jails that has persisted for years after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The agency has blamed staffing issues.
“We recognize the critical importance of these visits, especially for those with children. When parents and children are able to see each other, it nurtures hope, promotes healing, and opens the door to a stronger future together,” Sheriff Jim Hart said in a release.
Undersheriff Chris Clark, who was appointed Hart’s successor as sheriff in August and will formally take over when Hart steps down in December with four years remaining on his term, has said that restoring in-person visitation at the county’s Blaine Street and Rountree jails would be one of his top priorities.
On Thursday, the sheriff’s office said it’s also collaborating with community groups to “provide ongoing support and services for individuals at Blaine Street, both during their time at the facility and as they transition back into society.”
“Our office is pleased to partner with the sheriff on this vital work and applaud him for bringing back a critical program. We also look forward to working with community organizations and partner agencies to bolster these efforts and offer their services to those in custody wishing to participate,” said District 3 County Supervisor Justin Cummings.
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