Congrats, Potter County

(Jeffrey A. Beard, Ph. D., is Secretary of Corrections for the Pa. Dept. of Corrections. The Potter County Jail not only houses inmates from that county, but often holds prisoners from Cameron County, which no longer has a jail.)

Congratulations to the Potter County Jail for earning the Certificate of Compliance for our department's 2008 inspection cycle.

The Potter County Commissioners, Sheriff/Warden Ken Sauley and the Potter County Jail staff deserve recognition for their commitment to operating a facility that seeks and meets the challenge of standards compliance.

On April 1-2, our Office of County Inspection and Services conducted the inspection. The results show that this facility has received 100 percent compliance with the Minimum Standards for Local Adult Detention Facilities.

Despite being confronted with ongoing challenges, Potter County government officials, Sheriff/Warden Sauley and the jail staff members have maintained on ongoing commitment to face and surmount these challenges.

This determination reflects the high level of leadership found in Potter County. It is important to recognize that this public leadership can only be exercised because the citizens of Potter County are aware of the need to meet established standards and are willing to support the measures required to achieve those standards.

The ongoing social, judicial and governmental changes impacting correctional operations requires county prisons to be on constant vigil and to be adaptable. Risk is a constant factor in managing prison operations.

We appreciate Potter County's efforts and urge the county to continue its commitment.

(Editor's Note: Sheriff Ken Sauley said the second consecutive inspection finding of 100 percent compliance is a reflection of jail employees' dedication under the leadership of Assistant Warden Bob Patinka and staff)