By Will Robinson-Smith
FOX 10 TV
MOBILE, Ala. — The Mobile County Metro reached a big milestone today: over 100 inmates have now earned their GED’s during their time there.
Tears of joy and hugs of accomplishment filled the room as the inmates walked away with their newly awarded diplomas. Mobile County Sheriff Sam Cochran said the program is an important part of creating a good environment in the jail.
“It cuts down any problems in Metro Jail when you give the inmates something to do while they’re here instead of an idle mind,” Cochran said. “They’re studying, they’re learning, they’re occupying their time. So that helps us in that right.”
The sheriff said the program benefits more than just the jail community. By giving the inmates a tool to work toward a job, it deters them from returning to crime.
“I feel certain that we’ll see less recidivism with those that have gone through this program and obtained a GED and that’s another big plus for us and the community,” Cochran said.
Full story: 100th inmate in county jail earns GED