Sheriff Mike Smith of Utah County Jail recently allowed the television series “60 Days In” to film within the facility. Originally hesitant, Sheriff Smith saw the show as an opportunity to conduct an in-depth audit of his office. The show featured seven participants who voluntarily went undercover in the jail to expose issues such as drug activity and improper inmate treatment.
Sheriff Smith, with 30 years of law enforcement experience, emphasized the importance of law enforcement’s commitment to improvement. He acknowledged that while perfection is not expected, a willingness to recognize and address areas needing improvement is crucial. The show revealed surprising issues within the jail, including employee-inmate interactions that did not align with Sheriff Smith’s expectations.
One of the participants, Nina, a bondsman from Texas, shared her experience of voluntarily going behind bars. She described the deprivation and boredom as the most challenging aspects of being locked up. Nina compared her experience to a heightened version of the COVID-19 lockdown, emphasizing the importance of freedom and gratitude.
Nina’s perspective on the criminal justice system shifted after her time in jail. She expressed a belief in consequences but also emphasized the need to reconsider how inmates are treated. Nina plans to provide literature for inmates and support additional programming in her county’s jails following her participation in the show.
Sheriff Smith hopes that viewers of the reality show do not romanticize life in jail, emphasizing that it is a punishment for breaking the law, not a luxury retreat. He aims to address issues uncovered by the show and improve the overall environment within the jail. Utah County, where the jail is located, is the state’s second-most populous county, with Provo being its largest city.
Overall, the participation of Sheriff Mike Smith and Nina in the “60 Days In” series shed light on the realities of life behind bars and the need for ongoing improvements within the criminal justice system. Their experiences provided valuable insights that can contribute to better understanding and reform efforts in jails and prisons.