The Veterans Club Tours Kootenai County Jail

On December 11, 2024, seven members of The Veterans Club had the unique opportunity to tour the Kootenai County Jail. Hosting nearly 500 inmates, this facility accommodates individuals for up to two years as they await court proceedings.

Kay, one of our members, expressed surprise at the size of the facility: “I had no idea it was so large.” Meanwhile, Rory noted the stringent security measures, “This jail feels very high security compared to other maximum-security prisons I’ve visited before.”

Our tour was enriched by the guidance of two knowledgeable deputies (whose names are withheld for privacy), who patiently answered our numerous questions. Contrary to common perceptions, the facility was notably clean and quiet. “I always pictured a jail being filled with inmates yelling and screaming all the time. The place was so quiet,” I commented during the tour.

We explored various housing units, ranging from lockdown quarters for violent offenders to dorm-style rooms housing up to 50 inmates. The tour also included an insight into the intake process, where individuals are searched multiple times and processed through booking.

Additionally, we visited the onsite courtrooms, learned about the video visitation system, and saw the laundry and kitchen facilities. Excitingly, we also got a glimpse of the new areas currently under construction for expansion.

Reflecting on the experience, I shared, “I’ve passed by this place a thousand times and had no idea there were so many inmates housed here.”

A heartfelt thank you to the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office for providing such a comprehensive and enlightening tour for the men and women of The Veterans Club.