(Des Moines) The Iowa Department of Corrections (DOC) is proud to announce that eight counties have been recognized as having top-performing jails in the state. This recognition celebrates jails that demonstrate excellence in operations and management, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of both prisoners and staff.
The DOC evaluates jails across three categories based on capacity:
-Small Jails (up to 30 beds): Adair and Butler Counties
-Medium Jails (31–100 beds): Hamilton and Marion Counties
-Large Jails (101 beds or more): Dallas and Story Counties
Per Iowa Code 356, all jails in Iowa undergo an annual inspection conducted by the DOC to ensure compliance with the Iowa Administrative Code’s Jail Standards. These inspections include a comprehensive review of daily jail documentation, a facility tour, interaction with prisoners, and an operational review conducted by a DOC Inspector.
“Iowa is one of only 21 states where jail standards are overseen by the state’s Department of Corrections,” said DOC Director Dr. Beth Skinner. “Iowa consistently ranks among the top states for jail management, and that is a testament to the hard work and dedication of jail staff across our state.”
In 2017, the Iowa DOC launched the “Best of the Best” award to formally recognize exceptional efforts in jail operations. The achievement underscores the diligence and professionalism demonstrated by all staff every day.
Adair County Sheriff Jeff Vandwater said, “Of the many and varied responsibilities of the sheriff, I believe operating the jail to be the most challenging, on a day-to-day basis and I think most sheriffs in Iowa would agree, Certainly patrol, investigations, civil, court security, weapon permits, etc., all have their unique challenges, but with the prevalence of mental illness and substance abuse in our jail population, managing and operating a jail is often a difficult and time-consuming task. At the Adair County Jail, Chief Deputy Mike Algreen primarily manages the jail operations. Although every single employee of the ACSO contributes daily and is vital to the jail operations, it is ultimately the responsibility of Chief Deputy Mike Algreen and his work and dedication to this endeavor is invaluable.”
In 2025, Iowa DOC awarded two jails for outstanding improvement of the jail daily operations and professionalism. They are Boone and Muscatine County.
