MILLSTONE — The Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office inmate labor program was recently in operation in Millstone Township to assist with landscaping and the cleanup of parks in the area.
During the week of April 6, six inmates were transported to Millstone from the Monmouth County jail.
Once in the township, they trimmed hedges and trees, mulched and helped restore recreational areas, according to a press release from the sheriff’s office.
The inmate labor program offers assistance to towns and helps lessen financial burdens the municipalities face due to budget constraints.
“I am glad the sheriff’s office is able to provide such a valuable resource to municipalities through our inmate labor program,” Sheriff Shaun Golden said.
“The use of inmate labor to assist with the cleanup of our communities and storm damage recovery is a cost savings example of shared services,” he said.
Offenders incarcerated for minor offenses with records of good behavior are eligible to be a part of the program. Inmates who enroll in the program participate in work projects as an alternative to spending their time in jail, according to the press release.
Last year, 1,300 hours were dedicated to working on a range of projects through the inmate labor program.
The sheriff’s office transports and provides the security of the inmate labor crews. Requests for inmate labor teams are made to the program coordinator and are evaluated in terms of the needs and feasibility of the project.
“This program not only helps the towns save money on labor, but also assists the work crew in giving back to society,” Golden said.