Adult probation set to increase security at office

Putnam County officials increased security for the two county courtrooms in 2016, but what happens after folks leave the courtroom?

The Putnam County Commissioners addressed that question on Monday by approving a $2,370 upgrade to the Adult Probation Office at the Putnam County Courthouse.

The work will be performed by courthouse custodians, who will install two new doors and a bulletproof window.

Adult Probation Officer Teresa Parrish presented the case for increased security, saying that both Circuit Court Judge Matt Headley and Superior Court Judge Denny Bridges were concerned for safety in the first-floor office, considering it’s the first place that already agitated people are asked to report after getting negative news in the courtroom.

Later, it’s where the same people are asked to frequently report while on probation.

Putnam County Sheriff’s Department Capt. Danny Wallace, whose primary duty is courthouse security, offered some insight on what the Probation Department faces on a daily basis.

“You have to understand that most of the people they’re dealing with are on meth — meth or heroin,” Wallace said. “And the problem isn’t getting any better.”

The veteran officer went on to describe a recent incident in which he had to take a probation client into custody. The man was high on methamphetamine, and Wallace struggled for 15 minutes to get him handcuffed.

Head custodian Brian Smith described the work his department will do for the upgrades.

While the reception area has been just inside the public entrance of the office, it will now be just outside.

A window will be cut into the wall next to the receptionist’s desk, with bulletproof glass installed. The public entrance to the office, currently a standard door that is open during the day, will have magnetic lock installed that the receptionist will control.

Additionally, the back door of the department, used chiefly by employees, will be equipped with an electronic dead bolt.

The commissioners had the choice of standard glass on the window for a total project cost of $1,770 or the bulletproof glass option for $2,370.

In making his motion for approval, Commissioner Rick Woodall opted for bulletproof glass. Commissioner Don Walton seconded the motion, which passed unanimously with Commissioner David Berry joining the affirmative votes.