Trusty Inmate Program | Rankin County Sheriff's Department

In recent years, the concept of rehabilitation within the criminal justice system has gained significant attention, and Sheriff Bryan Bailey's Jail Trusty Program stands out as a beacon of hope and transformation. This innovative program not only addresses the needs of inmates but also serves the community effectively. For individuals like me, who have found themselves involved in the justice system, the program has proven to be a perfect fit, offering a pathway to redemption and personal growth.

At its core, the Jail Trusty Program allows selected inmates to take on responsibilities within the jail and the surrounding community. These trusties are given the opportunity to engage in meaningful work, which can include cleaning public spaces, assisting in local charities, or participating in educational programs. This structure not only helps inmates develop a sense of purpose but also fosters a sense of accountability and responsibility.

For me, being part of the Jail Trusty Program has been a transformative experience. It has allowed me to step outside the confines of my past mistakes and contribute positively to society. The program emphasizes the importance of community service, which has helped me understand the impact of my actions on others. By participating in various projects, I have been able to give back to the community that I once felt disconnected from, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.

Moreover, the program provides valuable skills and training that are essential for reintegration into society. Through workshops and hands on experience, I have gained practical skills that enhance my employability. Sheriff Bailey's initiative recognizes that inmates are not just offenders but individuals with potential. By investing in our development, the program equips us with the tools needed to succeed upon release, reducing the likelihood of recidivism.

The supportive environment created by the program is another aspect that works perfectly for me. The staff and fellow trusties foster a sense of camaraderie and encouragement. We share our stories, challenges, and aspirations, creating a network of support that is crucial for personal growth. This sense of community has helped me build self-esteem and confidence, allowing me to envision a brighter future.

In conclusion, Sheriff Bryan Bailey's Jail Trusty Program exemplifies a progressive approach to criminal justice that prioritizes rehabilitation and community engagement. For individuals like me, the program offers a second chance—a chance to learn, grow, and contribute positively to society. It is a testament to the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to change and make amends, and I am grateful to be part of a program that works perfectly for my journey toward redemption.

I am writing to thank the Rankin County Trusty program for changing my life. In the past, I lived a life of drug use, selling, and many other unspeakable things. I grew up in the fast life and the world of crime. For a long time, it was all I knew. I remember praying to whatever God may have been listening at the time to either take me out or help me find a way out of the way I was living. Little did I know, the answer to that prayer would come in the form of a jail sentence. I had been to prison before, but all it taught me was how to commit bigger crimes and gave me a new network of criminals with whom to compare strategies for more crimes. We were treated like animals in prison and as just another number in the system. So, when I was released, an animal was exactly what I acted like. Rankin County was so very different. They poured love into me. They taught me things like how to follow a routine, how to make a goal and make progress toward it, and eventually achieve it.

The program taught me to never quit, and the meaning of self-discipline. It taught me how to follow a routine and get up and go to work every morning even when I didn't feel like it. It taught me how to budget the money I made and save for my future. I learned how to be reliable and trustworthy. The most important thing I gained from being a trusty was learning about God and developing a relationship with Him. I was able to attend Seminary School while I was there and graduated with an associate's degree in Christian education. I now use that to teach English part-time at that same school as a way to give back what was freely given to me.

The last year of being there I was able to work at an actual job. Due to the qualities the trusty program taught us, I was quickly promoted to management and became a very valued employee. The program taught me the type of people I need in my life, which means my friends have changed drastically. I no longer associate with people from my past life and am instead focused on my family and bettering our future. None of this would have been possible without the love and guidance I received from the Rankin County Trusty Program. I am so grateful that God had different plans for me than I had for myself.

… I am 36 years young and I am a child of God and the Daughter of the one true king! Let me just say it's not always been rainbows and butterflies for me from a very young age. I was in a broken home with addiction and domestic situations so as I grew up that was the norm for me. I started using drugs and alcohol at a very young age—my first drink was when I was 8 years old on my birthday. And my first drug was very soon after that. That started a downward spiral of getting arrested and going to rehab centers, but with me being so young, I was also naive about life—I believed anything that anybody had to say.

… Let me just say that that night being arrested … saved my life and put me back on track to fully give my life to Jesus and really mean it this time.

I stayed in general population from January 6 to June 24. I remember the exact day because on June 23 I gave my life to Jesus Christ and fully surrendered everything I kept so close for so long to Jesus. From the first day in the trusty program, I felt so much love and compassion not only from the girls that came before me but Ms. Kristi Shanks and Sheriff Bryan Bailey—those two beautiful people are living for God, and it shows how they are showing up for the ones who could get lost in the judicial system but instead helped get us lost into our own personal walk with Jesus.

Being a trusty I had a lot of privileges like free calls, free world groceries, in-person visits, Bible studies on Mondays, Celebrate Recovery on Wednesdays, therapy one-on-one, and group therapy. We learned more and more about how to be better people in society when it was our time to be released. The ones who walked into jail with no education got a chance to get their high school diploma, and I am one of those blessed enough to have gotten my high school diploma while incarcerated at Rankin County Jail. That alone pushed me to further my education, and I will be starting vet school in fall of this year.

I am a former trusty in the Rankin County Sheriff's Department Trusty Program. When I came to Rankin County Jail in the summer of 2018, I was run down both physically and mentally. I was tired of the way I had been living for the last 15 years of my life. After the first two weeks of sitting in a cell, I was chosen for the trusty program. I started working in the kitchen. I started to work my way up through the jail jobs. I eventually was chosen to have a job working as a trusty for the … police department.

Although I was disgusted with myself and didn't know what the years to come would bring, the police department and workers at the Jail helped me realize my potential. My life was not over due to my bad decisions through the years. The sheriff's department offered Christian-based programs, such as Celebrate Recovery, one-on-one mentors, and small group Bible studies throughout my time. I also had the opportunity to attend Narcotics Anonymous group meetings while I was in jail.

The 3 years I spent at Rankin County Jail were by no means easy, but through all of the help of the Rankin County Trusty Program, I was able to work on mending relationships and friendships as well as making new friends along the way. Since I have been released, I have remained sober, completely out of trouble, and am fully employed by …. I have mended all of the relationships with my family who stuck by my side to see me through. Since then, I have gotten engaged and plan to get married next year.

With all of this being said, I firmly believe that none of these amazing things would have happened in my life had I not gotten chosen to be a part of the trusty program. I am very appreciative of all the doors that have opened for me because of the hard work and dedication of the people in charge of the trusty program. The day I was released, I asked to go speak with the Sheriff personally so I could thank him for all he had done for me. All the things that he is doing in the jail do not go unnoticed by people in the outside world as well as the inmates inside the jail walls. Because of the sheriff's department and Sheriff Bryan Bailey, I am a productive member of society today and plan on carrying on the things I have learned in this trusty program throughout my future endeavors.

I'm writing to share my story about the trusty program at Rankin County Jail and how it completely changed my life. I also want to highlight the role Sheriff Bryan Bailey played in making all of it possible. I spent five years in the Rankin County Jail, and for the last two years, I was part of the trusty program as a Blue Suit. During that time, I worked as a trusty for the Mississippi Highway Patrol and earned my Class B CDL license. That program gave me skills, confidence, and a real chance to turn my life around when I got out. Since my release, my life has completely changed. I've mended relationships with my kids, married an amazing, successful woman, and we now have twin boys who just turned one. On top of that, I started my own trucking business, and I'm using the CDL license I earned in the trusty program to support my family and build a future I'm proud of.

Sheriff Bailey played a huge role in this. He believes in second chances and treats inmates like people, not just numbers. He gives us opportunities to better ourselves and really cares about what happens to us after we leave. The trusty program is just one example of the kind of programs he supports, and it's made all the difference in my life.

I'll always be grateful to Sheriff Bailey and the staff at Rankin County Jail for giving me the tools and opportunities I needed to succeed. I'm proof that second chances can work, and I hope my story shows just how much good the trusty program—and Sheriff Bailey's leadership—can do.

Thanks for taking the time to read my story.

I attended the Rankin County Trusty Work Program in 2021, where I spent three years. This program yielded remarkable results, profoundly impacting my life and empowering me to become a better person. The officers and staff displayed exceptional courtesy throughout my tenure. I firmly believe that the trusty program was a turning point in my life, and I consider the Rankin County Jail to be one of the most outstanding correctional facilities I have encountered.

After my release, I experienced significant success, securing employment, acquiring my own residence and vehicle, and establishing a thriving family. In conclusion, my experience at the Rankin County Jail was overwhelmingly positive.

Thank you for everything!

I am writing to share my heartfelt gratitude and to express how the Rankin County Trusty Program has impacted my life. Participating in this program was a transformative experience that I will always be grateful for. I was a part of the Trusty Program from August 2020 to February 2022. Before this time, I was active in addiction and I felt helpless and uncertain about my future. Through this program, I was able to get sober and stay sober for 4 and a half years. I was also given the opportunity to work for a company that I still work for today. I was able to restore and maintain healthy relationships with my family.

I will always have the deepest appreciation to everyone involved in the Rankin County Sheriff's Department—from Sheriff Bailey, Kristi Shanks, the officers, guards, mentors, and the ladies that were in there with me. This program truly changed my life. I hope that the Trusty Program will continue to grow and help others like me.

I was accepted into the program in 2019. I was a drug-addicted, broken, heartless person. In my mind, there wasn't any hope for me. They were offering me 40 years in MDOC. I would have died there. I reached out to Sheriff Bryan Bailey and Mrs. Kristi Shanks and basically begged for my life!! I needed help. That's exactly what they gave me—a life-changing experience in the Rankin County Trusty Program. My transformation began! I was able to build a relationship with our Savior Jesus Christ and graduated Celebrate Recovery, money management class, Family First, GED, and computer skills class. I was also a part of the Physical Training program that is offered by Captain Barry Vaughn. It is for strengthening our minds to help us prepare for the outside world. The Rankin County Trusty Program saved me!! It taught me how to live drug- and alcohol-free!! How to be a good person!! I spent 5 years in the Trusty Program, and I can say it was the best 5 years of my life!! Mrs. Kristi and Sheriff Bryan Bailey also helped me get a wonderful job when I was released!! They helped me with transportation when I got out!!

I will recommend the Rankin County Trusty Program to anyone that's ready to change for the better!!!

This was my second time being incarcerated as I served almost 3 years in MDOC at the age of 19. During my time in prison, I was housed at several different state facilities where I took part in several trusty programs and classes they offered—I graduated from each one. These classes helped me mentally mature a little, or so I thought, but completing them took time off my sentence.

Fast forward years later in the darkest time of my life, I found myself in a position as a trusty in the Rankin County Jail from May 2019 until May 2021. It was during these times that I truly had the greatest growth and change of heart thus far in my journey outside of giving my life to Christ. Faith-based programs, the classes, the work programs, the experience, and the growth—it is truly a blessing. It is very apparent that the sheriff has a passion for rehabilitation, and that means a lot to me because the prison system had absolutely zero. There is no rehabilitation in prison.

Every step of the Rankin County Trusty Program seems like it was designed for preparation for rehabilitation and equipped with the mental tools to be a positive, productive citizen and released back into society as a better person. Of course, you have to have the want and the will, and when you hit rock bottom and find that, you get thrown into prison where there is no seeking that. The Rankin County Trusty Program was honestly the best thing that's ever happened to me. The resources, the knowledge, the growth, and the support system leaving there has been everything to me—which has allowed me to be the best version of myself for my kids and my family.

I was a Rankin County trusty from June of 2017 to May of 2019. … As a young adult facing the circumstances I put myself in, my life was forever affected and the day I was sentenced was a dreary day in my life. The Rankin County Trusty Program offered a second chance—to not be thrown away in prison, but to try and learn from my past mistakes and have a chance at a normal life after my sentence.

The trusty program allowed me to do things that gave me hope for a successful life when I was released. They offered multiple classes and courses that taught me how to live a better life. I got to be involved in many different jobs, which taught me many valuable life skills while also giving me a purpose while I was incarcerated. I was also able to enroll and complete online college courses while I was a trusty, which kickstarted me getting my bachelor's degree shortly after being released.

This led to me landing a job after college, where I have recently been promoted to branch manager, leading and supervising others. I often think about how much different my life would be if I were sent to prison instead of the trusty program. I without a doubt do not think I would be where I am today if it weren't for the program, Bryan Bailey, Barry Vaughn, and the other leaders involved. I am forever grateful to have been given the opportunity to serve my sentence in the Rankin County Trusty Program.

I did 2 years in the Rankin County trusty program and let me tell you, it changed my life 100 percent. It wasn't easy, but I don't think it was designed to be easy. The way I see it is, if it was easy, everybody would be doing it. Only the strong survive, but once you do complete the program, it's a great feeling to actually accomplish something. Because of the trusty program, I have hope now and a future—and when I first got there, I had neither.

It taught me a better way of life. It taught me how to live a normal life. It taught me how to interact with other people. It taught me a schedule, a routine. It taught me that doing the same thing every day is okay as long as it's the right thing that you're doing. It's the very best thing that I could have gone through at the time. Since I've been home, I kept my schedule—but with a little more freedom, lol. I'm currently working 60 hours a week. I bought myself a nice truck and am still saving money for bigger and better things.

I also have peace of mind. I go to report to my P.O. with no worries, and that feels really good—knowing I can get up every morning without having to look over my shoulder because I'm doing the right thing. God is also in my life—He is showing up and showing out. I'm closer to God now more than ever. The church services were awesome. I learned so many different things, and some I already knew—it just showed me a better way to look at it.

The Rankin County trusty program is made for an open heart and an open mind. With a little bit of effort, it will go a long way. So I just wanted to thank the Rankin County trusty program for allowing me to be a part of it and for completely changing my life. Without it, I would not be where I am today. So I thank you for that sincerely.

Three years ago I was a part of the Rankin County Sheriff Trusty Program. I was in the program for two years, and those two years were a very crucial time in my life. Going through the program, I learned the way I was doing things was not the best way to approach life. I came from a broken home without my father in my life full-time. My mom did the best she could to raise me right, but I got around the wrong people and made some bad choices that almost landed me forty-four years in prison. But by the grace of God, I was sentenced to the trusty program. In the program, I learned to submit to authority, respect law enforcement, and make better life choices.

During the program, I was assigned to the road department to clean bathrooms, mop floors, and do anything else that was asked of me. During this time, I was hired as a part-time employee, and that led me into a full-time position when I was released from jail. Since my release, I have started a career with … and became a productive member of the community. I also obtained my Class A CDL, my GED, and multiple certifications pertaining to my job position. The relationship with my mother and daughter has been completely restored. I recently got married six months ago and became a father to three additional children and one grandchild. I am also in the process of buying my first house.

There is no way that any of this would have happened if I had been sentenced to MDOC. I am so grateful for the sheriff's trusty program. Through God and this program, my life was saved. I am very thankful that I was given a second chance in life and have been fully rehabilitated. I live a peaceful life with my family and do what God designed me for.

When I first entered the program, I didn't really know what all the trusty program entailed. During my previous times locked up at the same facility, I had learned that there were trusties but was never sure what all they did or the benefits of the program. While serving time as a trusty, I was astonished at the responsibility and freedom they gave us as we worked the program. The program starts the same with everyone. The first step is to become a kitchen worker and then the individual is promoted according to the jobs that need to be filled. The next steps are either a red suit, which can be either at the jail or at a related Rankin County facility, and an orange suit, which is called road crew. The step-up gives a few more privileges while also giving the trusties added responsibilities. This is further demonstrated once they progress to grey suit and then to blue suit. It is getting the trusty more prepared to reenter society as they progress, with the final part being a blue suit. At this point, they are allowed to have an off-site job, get their own groceries, and have a savings plan in place, which is one step before they are released. In my experience in the program, the most lasting impact is also, as you progress, the one-on-one you have with the staff at the facility.

The officers there take the time to get to know the trusty, as well as look for alternatives for them when they are eventually released. When I came into the facility, I was already in the union apprenticeship program and had most of my future plans worked out. Yet with some trusties, this isn't the case, and the officers there are more than willing to help provide any assistance needed. Whether it is schooling while they are still trusties, employment opportunities, or even halfway houses, the officers are willing to help. Another asset the facility provides is called the Net. It's a Christian-based counseling service that takes a one-on-one role in providing help. My experience with the counseling went very well, and it helped me see what had led me on the path I had taken, as well as proactive solutions to prevent further incarcerations.

Overall, the program has procedures in place that will go above and beyond for anyone willing to make the decision to change past behaviors. While the results still depend on the individual themselves and their willingness to change, the program gives plenty of opportunities to make the best of a bad situation and provide a way forward. If a trusty is ready to get away from whatever led them to the Rankin County Detention Center, the program is designed and ready to give them a new chance at life.

The trusty program helped form me into the man I am today. The program put me in a position to make the right decisions instead of the wrong ones that got me in jail in the first place. They provide many opportunities and options to get you prepared for life when you get released—from recovery programs to getting your GED, even college for some that want to take it to the next level. From getting your driver's license, birth certificate, and social security card, to getting a job before you are released so you can be prepared when it's time to leave.

The trusty program puts you around officers who care and want to see you succeed in life. Without the program, I wouldn't be where I am today. I am still working at the job the program helped me get before I left the program. The trusty program gave me the tools to succeed in life, and with that, I'm a better man and father. I'm forever grateful for the program and hope to see it continue to help those who want to change their life.

I have to give a little background to be able to explain how the trusty program changed my life. I'm … 32 years old, and a drug addict since 13. I've been in the Rankin County system since I was a juvenile, cycling through jails, institutions, and group homes. In 2016, at 22, I was a trusty but relapsed after getting bonded out. I was arrested several times after that, and in 2020, I was extradited from Louisiana to Mississippi and given another chance at being a trusty.

I developed a work ethic, earned my GED, and participated in classes like computer technology and Celebrate Recovery. I even got to walk across the stage in a cap and gown. The trusty program helped me transition back to the real world. During my 27 months as a trusty, I learned to live—not just exist. My life is forever changed. I participated in the sheriff's work release pilot program, got a job at … and achieved financial stability. What matters most is the support system that believes in me.

I have 5 years SOBER! That is what the trusty and the sheriff and all the employees who took their time to pour into me did!!! The Rankin County trusty program was the best thing that's ever happened to me, and I am and will forever be grateful!

I am writing this letter to thank the Rankin County Trusty Program. If you knew me before I joined the program, you wouldn't recognize the man I am today due to the program. I was a very troubled young man who made many questionable decisions. Even after all of that, the people involved in the program saw something in me that I did not see in myself. The program taught me how to work. I also learned how to listen, take direction, and allow myself to be teachable. I am so thankful the Trusty Program gave me a fighting chance to have a better life and be a better man than I ever thought possible. I used to feel like I didn't deserve to have anything good in life because I was a terrible person. The program helped teach me that people make mistakes and are not defined by their past, as long as they are willing to make a change and be different. The program helped me to build a better me and a better life.

I have a job at a metal fabricating shop that I've held for the past couple of years, and I am learning new things constantly. I show up on time every single day and even volunteer for overtime whenever it is available. I am clean and happier than I have ever been. I found a partner with the same type of goals to share my life with and build a future. My family didn't talk to me for 13 years because of the way I was, and now I talk to them on a daily basis and see them regularly. We are there for every holiday and they are very proud of the man the Trusty Program has made me.

The program is truly the best thing that ever could have happened to me. I am so grateful it is there to love and help people like me.

Writing this, I find myself overwhelmed with emotion, revisiting one of the most challenging yet transformative times of my life. My time in the Rankin County Trusty Program tested me in ways I never imagined but also gave me the strength and tools to rebuild a better version of myself. As a single mother, my son was my world. We spent every moment together, and being separated from him was an indescribable pain. My family was my rock, and we were inseparable, getting together several times a week. Being away from them wasn't just a physical separation—it was an emotional and mental void that felt impossible to fill.

But as I began working in the program, small moments of grace helped ease that pain. I am deeply thankful for the opportunities you gave me—keeping my hands and mind busy during the day by working helped me endure. The little things meant more to me than you'll ever know: being able to see my son, sharing time with my family, and even having the privilege of enjoying meals they prepared for me. In my culture, food is more than nourishment; it's a connection, a tradition, and a comfort. That small gesture carried a weight you can't put into words.

The creative skills I rediscovered during the program—sewing, painting, and drawing—brought light to dark days. And when I was allowed to work at my family's restaurant, it felt like a miracle. Being trusted with that privilege to earn money, contribute to my fines, and spend Saturdays with my loved ones was a gift I will never forget. Words cannot express the gratitude I felt then and continue to feel now. None of these things would have ever happened if Captain Vaughn, Sheriff Bailey, and Ms. Kristi didn't believe in me and make it possible. They were incredibly supportive and people really need that—or at least I did.

The workout program was another unexpected gift. It was grueling at first—I had never worked out before, and I wanted to quit so many times. But thanks to the persistence and encouragement of Captain Vaughn, Lt. Thompson, and Officer McCray, I found a strength I didn't know I had. That perseverance taught me grit, tenacity, and a resilience that now defines my life. Fitness has become a part of me, and I enjoy the time I spend being active with my family.

Four years later, I can say without hesitation that the Trusty Program changed my life for the better. It's not something that I would have chosen for myself, but it was something I needed, and I am a better person because of it. I've learned to structure my days, cherish every moment with my family, and embrace the value of second chances. I strive daily to show the same kindness and compassion to others that I was shown during my time in the program.

To everyone who helped me along this journey—thank you. Your support, your patience, and your unwavering encouragement made all the difference. This program didn't just change my life; it gave me my life back.

Being part of the Rankin County Sheriff's Department Trusty Program was a truly life-changing experience for me. Before joining, I was a hard worker and skilled in construction, but I didn't have a clear plan for my life. Spending five years in the program gave me the time and structure I needed to think deeply, grow, and rebuild my path. Before this incident, I had never been in trouble. Adjusting to the situation was tough at first, and while I never got entirely comfortable, I learned to create habits and routines that grounded me. One of the things I'm most grateful for was the opportunity to stay connected with my family during that time. Being able to work and send money home to my mom, who lived far away, meant the world to me.

The physical workout program, along with the chance to participate in races and marathons, became one of my favorite parts of the program. I had never worked out before, and it was incredible for both my mental health and overall discipline. Attending church services regularly also helped me reconnect with something I'd been missing for years. I grew up going to church, and being able to return to that foundation helped me find clarity and purpose.

Sheriff Bailey, Captain Vaughn, and Lt. Thompson were pivotal in turning my life around. They didn't just oversee my time in the program—they actively supported my journey. After my release, they helped me secure a great job with benefits and retirement, something I never imagined I'd have. At 33, I had never been to college, but with their encouragement and guidance, I earned a scholarship and got started. Four years later, I've earned a Technical Certificate, an Associate's Degree, and am close to finishing my Bachelor's Degree.

Today, I own a construction business that's doing well, and I have a family I likely would have never met if it weren't for this journey. The Trusty Program didn't just teach me discipline and structure—it gave me the tools to create a meaningful and successful life.

I remain in touch with Sheriff Bailey and Captain Vaughn, who I'm proud to call friends. I'll always be grateful for the guidance, second chances, and opportunities they gave me. My experience in the Trusty Program set the foundation for everything I have today, and for that, I am deeply thankful.

I spent 2 years in the trusty program at the Rankin County jail. It was the most influential two years of my life. The Lord saved me in zone 201 cell 102. I was given the opportunity to be disciplined by men who are now my best friends (8 years later). When I became a trusty, Sheriff Bryan Bailey told me that he was a man of second chances, and I now know it to be true. While in the Trusty program, I was treated as a man of integrity—and I was reminded of what true friendship was. It was a crucial and life-changing time for me. The Lord has used the Sheriff and his trusty program to change countless lives. I will be forever thankful for the time I spent as a trusty.

I have been out of jail for 7 years. I have a loving wife and three amazing children. I'm now a co-owner of a property management company. I have loving and healthy relationships with all of my friends and family. All this is because Jesus specializes in cases like mine, and the avenue He took me down to meet Him was through the Rankin County Jail Trusty Program.

I want to start by saying I am so grateful for the Rankin County Trusty Program. When I first got there, I was and had nothing to my name. I burned the only bridge I ever built in my life due to my drug addiction. I never had a purpose after I got caught again because I thought I would go back to prison for over 20 years. But I got the opportunity to accept a deal to stay as a trusty there under Sheriff Bryan Bailey. This decision was the best thing I have ever done in my life.

Throughout the program, you can move up and work outside jobs and also have the weekend visits where you can try to mend those broken bridges with your family, and today that is exactly what has happened in my life. The Rankin County Jail Trusty Program works miracles in people's lives and truthfully is a blessing that they help the ones that truly want and need it. The program has made me the man I am today. I cannot give enough praise to everyone who is involved in this program under Sheriff Bryan Bailey. If it can change me, then it can truly change anybody.

In 2015–2016 I was going down a road that was leading to destruction. I was taking anything and everything to cover my feelings of hopelessness and failure. I had a rough childhood and ended up making bad decisions starting at a very young age. I had nobody to guide me in the right direction and mentor me to do the right things in life until I came to Rankin County Jail and was in the trusty program. Sheriff Bryan Bailey and Kristi Shanks showed me there was a way to live clean, sober, and happy. They saw something in me that I never saw in myself, and that gave me hope for a future. I went to multiple rehabs, and they never helped. The trusty program was the best rehab I ever got. The program allowed me to get closer to God, learn healthy living skills, and have a structured schedule.

I never thought I'd be where I am today, and without the help of the sheriff's office and the trusty program, I wouldn't be here.

I currently have two trusties working with my company …. They are both doing outstanding work. They have excelled in expectations. They are always willing to work. I see them striving to better themselves. In the future, I would like more trusties like them. The Sheriff has created a great program for these guys, and I am amazed by the progress that it is making.

We are writing to express our gratitude and provide feedback regarding the Rankin County Sheriff's Department Trusty Program, which we have been utilizing for almost two years. During this time, the trusties assigned to our business have consistently demonstrated exceptional work ethic, courtesy, and dedication to both our team and our customers.

Over the course of our participation in this program, we have had the opportunity to work with nine trusties. Their contributions have been invaluable in numerous ways, including operating heavy machinery, loading and unloading trucks, and transporting materials to various job locations. Currently, we are utilizing five trusties, and their efforts have significantly alleviated the workload on our management team.

This program has not only benefited our business operations but has also provided the trusties with opportunities to develop skills and gain experience that will aid in their reintegration into society upon their release. We firmly believe that this initiative is instrumental in helping these individuals get back on their feet and transition successfully into the community. In fact, two former trusties who were released from the program stayed on with us long enough to secure stable footing in their personal and professional lives.

The relationship we have built with the Rankin County Sheriff's Department and the trusties has been a positive and productive one. Based on our experience, we fully intend to continue utilizing the Trusty Program in our business operations. We deeply value the trustworthiness, reliability, and professionalism that the trusties have exhibited throughout their time with us.

Thank you for providing such a beneficial program that not only supports local businesses but also empowers individuals to rebuild their lives. We look forward to maintaining this partnership and witnessing the continued success of this initiative.

I have been using Trusties in my business for several years. It has been a rewarding experience for me in teaching an individual the trade of metal working. The Trusty program is a valuable program for the Trusties and the employers that use them. It gives the employers an opportunity to have an employee to work for them for a period to get trained and accustomed to the working environment of that employer. Here at … we treat the Trusties like any other employee. We do not hold anything against them for the situation they are in. We try to show them that there is a better way in life than what they have been doing in the past. We passionately remind them that their past is the past and they can make better choices.

We give them every opportunity to gain experience in the metal fabrication trade while they are here in the part-time status. We encourage them to learn all they can, so when they get released, they have some experience to use in finding full-time employment. We offer all Trusties full-time employment when they are released. We believe that this gets them back into society with a purpose.

All the trusties have always been model employees and seem to enjoy the opportunity to get excellent work experience. We have had several to stay with us, working to further learn the metal working trade. With more experience they have been able to move up in the company and become valuable employees. When the Trusty is released, hopefully, they will continue to work for that employer in a full-time status. They can train the next Trusty on the job from their experience.