Illinois Jail Implements Video Arraignments, Boosts Staff Numbers

BELVIDERE, Ill. — Boone County, Ill., has hired Court Vision Communications of California to install a video arraignment system that will eliminate the need for inmates to leave the county jail for court appearances.

The system, which cost $24,661 to install, could be in operation this winter. It features digital cameras with large plasma televisions for public viewing at the courthouse. The new system eliminates the need for inmates to be transferred to the courthouse via underground tunnels. County board members say more technological upgrades will be considered as funding becomes available.

In addition to the new video arraignment system, the number of jail employees was boosted from 33 to 36. The staffing increase will allow for a section of the jail that has been shuttered to open, which could allow the county to house inmates from other jurisdictions for a fee.

The county jail facility is relatively new. It opened in April 2002 after taxpayers approved a 0.5-cent sales tax increase in April 1999.