The Chatham County Sheriff’s Department Work Release Program was established November of 2007 under the direction of Sheriff Al St. Lawrence as an Operational Division. The principle mission of the Work Release Program is to provide an environment where participants learn to accept responsibility and to engage in meaningful lawful employment.
 

Qualifications for the Work Release Program:

• Individuals who are delinquent in child support payments.
• Participants must be recommended by the Courts.
• Has served at least seventy two hours at the Sheriff’s Complex.
• No “holds” or retainers from other states, counties, probation, or parole.
• Must not be subject of any active criminal investigation.
• No violent felonies within the past seven years.
• Must pass the medical physical and mental health evaluation given at the Sheriff’s Complex.
  
   

Requirements when accepted into the program:

• Submit to alcohol and drug screening.
• Must be gainfully employed within thirty days and maintain employment until released by the Courts.
• Case Managers must be allowed to visit work sites.
• Participants are required to have respect and cooperation with the Sheriff’s Department Staff and other participants.
• Follow all rules and regulations for the Sheriff Department.
• Must commit to excellence and to achieve the goals set by the Courts.
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Sheriff Al St. Lawrence and the Chatham County Sheriff’s Department Staff are dedicated and committed to the community. We are also committed to building relationships with employers.

The Work Release Program is one out of many programs offered to Detainees that promote discipline, growth, education, and responsibility. We are excited about this valuable program that benefits families and the community.