When I first came to jail, a number of the guards told me they would get me a “jail job” right away. They told me I could have my choice of jail jobs, just tell them what I wanted.
There are inside jobs and outside jobs I could have. The outside jobs are: garbage dump (helping people unload their trash bags in a dumpster), litter crew(picking up trash throughout the county (no leg shackles-jobs for misdemeanor only), chain gang(moving belongings out of eviction residences and picking up trash- must wear leg shackles- inmates with felonies),dog pound, (self-explanatory), and maintenance crew (various and sundry repairs, grass cutting, leaf raking, at various county government buildings-This crew has much more freedom of movement than any other job-they even drive-thru a McDonald’s occasionally if the supervisor feels good.)
The inside jobs are: kitchen crew (4-5 men), “rock man”(2 men) Laundry man (1 man who also doubles as the “rock man”(Rock man will be explained in future blog) and dorm cleaner(each dorm has 1 man that cleans dorm daily).
The outside jobs last from about 8:30-3:30 p.m. Mon-Fri. The kitchen crew works 7 days per week about 6 hours a day, but divided up as; 2 hours breakfast, 1 hour lunch, and 3 hours dinner. The rock men also serve as “gofers” and are pretty much on duty all day long and through the evening. The dorm cleaning job is done in about 45 minutes, and then the worker is finished.
The benefits of working: 1) It helps pass the time to those who don’t desire cerebral activities. 2) Smokers (there are many) desire outside jobs because they are allowed to smoke. 3) A second sandwich is given at lunch. 4) The “biggie” benefit is”2for1” Two days credited for 1 day served and worked. EXCEPTION: (Big Exception) For those charged with DUI or Child support/Alimony.
So, I don’t qualify for “2 for1”(future blog on this topic! Those charged with burglary, assaults, or writing bad checks can get it, but a working divorced husband/dad wanting to help his family all he can, living very meagerly himself, is found in contempt. Therefore, he must serve his complete sentence.)
The guards got me a job soon after my arrival. I also gave it up after 2-3 weeks. On Sunday, Dec 4th, I accepted another job. I will tell you the story in Part-II and Part-III to come in sequence. Don’t change that dial! Stay tuned!
Still seeking and praying for a positive outcome for all involved, for my persecutors, as well as for me. Descent and respectful communication outside the courtroom would open the door for this. Can it be? Absolutely! Love conquers all! Don’t doubt! Be positive and do what you can to bring positive good for all.
Jim Hannaford
200 Court Sq.
Ashland City, TN 37015
