Louisville Jail Adds 13 New Officers After Training

Metro Corrections swears in new recruits focused on mental health support

Jan. 30, 2026 at 7:07pm

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Louisville's Metro Department of Corrections (LMDC) welcomed 13 new officers after they completed a training program that included a 40-hour mental health course. The new officers, including Isaac Garr, are focused on providing better support and resources for inmates, especially those dealing with mental illness.

Why it matters

LMDC has faced scrutiny in the past over inmate deaths, prompting the department to enhance officer training and preparation. The new mental health-focused curriculum aims to improve conditions and outcomes for vulnerable inmates within the jail system.

The details

The 13 new officers were sworn in during a ceremony at Louisville's mayor's gallery on Friday. LMDC Chief Jerry Collins said the department has stepped up its training efforts over the last several classes, with all new recruits now required to complete a 40-hour mental health course to become certified mental health corrections officers.

  • The new mental health training program began about 18 months ago.
  • The graduation ceremony for the 13 new officers took place on Friday, January 31, 2026.

The players

Isaac Garr

One of the 13 new Metro Corrections officers who views his new career as a chance to serve and help those who may be overlooked, including those dealing with mental illness.

Jerry Collins

The chief of the Louisville Metro Department of Corrections, who said the department has enhanced its officer training to better prepare them for working with inmates, especially those with mental health issues.

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What they’re saying

“I have always been interested in helping those who might be overlooked. I originally started working at Central State Hospital working with the mentally ill, seeing how they were constantly processed through the jail I really want to be there for them.”

— Isaac Garr

“Now every member of that academy has to go through a 40-hour mental health course to become a certified mental health corrections officer, that's really exciting.”

— Jerry Collins, LMDC Chief

What’s next

The department plans to continue expanding its mental health training for all new recruits to better serve the inmate population.

The takeaway

The new mental health-focused training for Louisville's jail officers aims to improve conditions and outcomes for vulnerable inmates, marking a shift towards a more compassionate and rehabilitative approach within the corrections system.