New Bibb County Jail Administrator Aims to Reform Facility

Colonel Samuel Jines takes on the challenge of overhauling operations and programs at the troubled county jail.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 10:26pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a set of handcuffs against a pitch-black background, lit dramatically by a harsh camera flash, conceptually representing the criminal justice system.The new Bibb County jail administrator aims to reform the troubled facility through expanded programs, housing overhauls, and improved cleanliness.Macon Today

Colonel Samuel Jines, the newly appointed Bibb County jail administrator, is tasked with revamping the troubled facility's operations amid ongoing criticism over conditions and overcrowding. Jines, who previously worked in corrections in Nashville, Tennessee, plans to focus on expanding rehabilitation programs, reworking the housing system, and improving cleanliness and safety to boost staff morale and inmate well-being.

Why it matters

The Bibb County jail has faced years of criticism and scrutiny over issues like overcrowding, understaffing, and inhumane conditions. Jines' appointment represents a critical opportunity to address these longstanding problems and rebuild trust with the community after incidents like in-custody deaths and protests.

The details

As the new jail administrator, Jines will oversee nearly 100 full-time sworn deputies, along with administrative staff, managers, and vendors. He plans to prioritize expanding programs like GED classes, Alcoholics Anonymous, and therapeutic activities to aid rehabilitation. Jines also aims to rework the housing system, creating a special-needs unit to better accommodate vulnerable inmates. Additionally, he intends to focus on improving cleanliness through regular deep-cleaning and boosting staff morale, which he believes is key to recruitment and retention.

  • Jines was sworn in as Bibb County jail administrator on Tuesday, April 15, 2026.
  • Demolition crews have begun tearing into the old Higgins building to make way for a jail expansion.

The players

Colonel Samuel Jines

The newly appointed Bibb County jail administrator, who previously worked in corrections in Nashville, Tennessee for a decade.

Bibb County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency overseeing the Bibb County jail, which has not had a dedicated jail administrator in nearly 10 years until Jines' appointment.

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What they’re saying

“Programs are of great importance with rehabilitation. When we talk about programs, they are kind of what sets the incarcerated individuals up for success outside of the community.”

— Colonel Samuel Jines, Bibb County Jail Administrator

“There are better ways we can house our population here that will make it much, much safer for not only officers, but the inmates themselves as well.”

— Colonel Samuel Jines, Bibb County Jail Administrator

“If you ask the individuals that are incarcerated, they want to have pride in where they live, even if that is in jail. It shouldn't just be one person walking around cleaning. Obviously, it's too big of a jail for that to happen.”

— Colonel Samuel Jines, Bibb County Jail Administrator

What’s next

Jines plans to immediately begin implementing his reform plans, including expanding rehabilitation programs, reworking the housing system, and improving cleanliness and safety throughout the facility.

The takeaway

Jines' appointment as Bibb County's new jail administrator represents a critical opportunity to address longstanding issues at the troubled facility and rebuild trust with the community. His focus on rehabilitation, housing improvements, and facility upkeep aims to create a safer, more humane environment for both inmates and staff.