Michigan Prison Increases Surveillance

ST. IGNACE, Mich. — With the installation of a new video security system, the Mackinac County jail is now completely under watch by cameras.

The surveillance cameras are strategically placed inside and outside of the facility and allow correctional officers to observe inmate activity at any area, at any time.

Cameras cover every point of access, including front and rear doors, individual cells, the booking rooms, visitation, conference room, and the library. Areas can be monitored from various workstations throughout the facility and will increase overall safety of staff and inmates.

The system, installed by the Michigan-based company Centerline Tech, will help minimize staffing increases without violating jail regulations. A minimum of two staff members are needed at all times at the 28-inmate facility, as well as additional staffing for medical visits and transports.

A previous sheriff installed the original security system and Homeland Security funded additional cameras on the exterior of the jail. The Michigan Municipal Risk Management Authority and the county’s emergency services office supplied a $9,000 grant to increase surveillance to the current system. Additional funds came from the county’s general fund. The installation was a five-day process with minor disruptions to jail operations.