The National Institute of Jail Operations (NIJO) has awarded the Clay County Detention Center its Level 1 Accreditation, which is the highest level.

The facility scored 100% in more than 600 core and non-core standards. No other county jail in the state of Missouri has achieved NIJO’s Level 1 accreditation.

“I am incredibly proud of our Detention and Accreditation staff for this achievement,” Sheriff Will Akin said. “They have worked very hard the last two-and-a-half years to update our policies and procedures to align with NIJO’s legal-based jail guidelines. This Level 1 Accreditation shows the Clay County Detention Center operates at the highest level of professionalism.”

The accreditation process had three phases: First, NIJO inspectors reviewed policies to ensure compliance with legal guidelines. Second, inspectors reviewed documentation proving that these policies are followed. Finally, NIJO staff conducted an on-site inspection, which occurred Feb. 9 and 10, 2024.

“The inspection team expressed high compliments to the professionalism demonstrated by the jail officers and staff they interacted with during the intensive onsite process,” NIJO Executive Director Tate McCotter wrote.

He also noted, “The facility was very clean and well-maintained.”

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story