Somerset County Takes Next Step in Reduction of Jail Operations

SOMERVILLE, NJ – The Somerset County Board of County Commissioners has agreed to a five-year contract with Morris County to provide housing for Somerset County’s longer-term detainees. The agreement is the product of a year of study by County officials to address the reduced jail population.

“The agreement with Morris County to provide jail services will deliver ongoing taxpayer savings while ensuring the needs of our detainees and the courts are met,” said Commissioner Director Shanel Y. Robinson. “I want to thank Sheriff Russo, my fellow Commissioners, and neighboring county officials for helping to reach this positive outcome for all involved.”

Most county jails in New Jersey, including Somerset County’s, were designed during a time when state laws resulted in significantly higher populations. Recent bail and other sentencing reforms have reduced the number of incarcerated persons, and Somerset County was operating its facility at less than a quarter of capacity. In May 2023 the County Commissioners determined that consolidation with neighboring counties was the best solution. This action is similar to other counties that have entered into agreements for jail services.

“We’ve worked hard over the past year to find a solution that supports the Courts and our local police departments, protects public safety, and aids County staff impacted by the changes,” said Somerset County Sheriff Darrin Russo. “Because of reduced populations, county jails throughout the state are working together to consolidate populations, and we are pleased to partner with Morris County to achieve this successful outcome.”

To meet the needs of the courts and local law enforcement the Somerset County jail will continue to operate on a limited basis with the short-term housing of detainees scheduled for court hearings. Detainees serving sentences or being held for longer periods will be served by the Morris County Jail.

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