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Jail Early Release of Adults in Custody

Early Release of Adults in Custody

Benton County jail deputy with his hands on a cell door.

To manage capacity at the Benton County Jail, we sometimes release adults in custody (AICs) early to make room for incoming arrestees.

Why Is Early Release Necessary?

The Benton County Jail follows a strict classification policy to protect both staff and adults in custody. Classification determines each AIC’s security level and sets their housing assignment. When all beds at the appropriate security levels are full, the Jail cannot accept new arrestees.

As a result, although the Jail holds 40 beds, we typically reach capacity at 28 to 34 adults in custody. Because of this gap, we sometimes carry out a “Force Release” — releasing an AIC early to open the right bed for an incoming arrestee.

How Do We Determine Which Adults in Custody to Release?

To keep this process fair and consistent, we conduct all Forced Releases according to policy using a matrix score. Staff developed the Matrix Score System to objectively measure each individual’s risk to the community.

When individuals arrive at the Benton County Jail, staff assess and score each person using a matrix. For example, the score considers factors such as criminal history, current charges, employment status, and whether the individual is under parole or probation supervision.

Additionally, staff use each person’s matrix score at two key points. First, some arrestees receive an immediate release on their own recognizance based on a low score. Second, staff use the matrix score to determine whether an AIC already in custody qualifies for early release when their bed is needed.

Do Released Adults in Custody Return to Finish Their Sentence?

No. Staff may Force Release an AIC whether they are pretrial or sentenced. When staff Force Release a sentenced AIC, staff release them as “sentence served.” In short, they do not return to complete the remainder of their sentence.

How Many Adults in Custody Does the Jail Release Early Each Year?

The number varies from year to year. Finally, here is a summary of recent totals:

  • 2025: 72 Forced Releases
  • 2023: 86 Forced Releases
  • 2024: 75 Forced Releases
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