Inmates Graduate from Rutherford County Recovery Court’s Re-Entry Program

“It’s Ok to be sober.”

“I’ve learned there’s hope.”

“It’s crazy living in your own prison.”

“It’s Ok to set boundaries and stick to those boundaries.”

These were some of the impactful comments by Rutherford County Adult Detention Center inmates graduating Monday from a Re-Entry class taught by Rutherford County Recovery Court employees.

Re-Entry case manager Mardriana McClure said the team teaches inmates to unpack trauma, set goals, be accountable and determine what led the inmates to be incarcerated.

They teach how to manage anger. Inmates learn what causes anger and how to deal with it. They learn coping skills.

Teachers talk about substance use and PTSD. They offer coping skills.

“We try to dive in about manipulation and being honest,” McClure said.

Jail Administrator Kevin Henderson told graduates he appreciates them volunteering for the class.

“If you work at this, it will work for you,” Henderson said. “You have begun the healing process. Don’t let it stop here.”

Henderson urged the inmates to be patient, especially with anger management that gives them tools to deal with anger.

He believes the classes coordinated with the detention’s center’s program staff will help inmates to better face challenges when released.

McClure agreed, saying she hopes the skills inmates learn will help them when they are released.

Once released, Recovery Court will provide inmates resources such as help getting a job and housing. They provide backpacks with hygiene items, clothes and other needs.

Recovery Court also sponsors an alumni picnic where the graduates can bring their families and socialize with their former classmates.

Other Re-Entry Team members who were involved in the program include Program Coordinator Lindsey Davis, counselor Jennifer Barlow, case manager Jasmine Tindall, and case manager David Figueroa.

The Detention Center’s program staff who coordinates with the Re-Entry Team include Lt. Richard Grissom, Sgt. Brian Layhew, Deputy Jill Miles and Deputy Jackie Rackley.