Rutherford County Sheriff Reports First Term Updates

Rutherford County Sheriff Aaron Ellenburg reported a series of operational, security, and programmatic improvements at the Rutherford County Detention Center during his first term, outlining aggressive steps taken to stop contraband, strengthen officer safety, and expand rehabilitation services for inmates.

Ellenburg said detention officers worked under demanding conditions, routinely managing long shifts in a high-stress environment while supervising individuals charged with offenses ranging from misdemeanors to violent felonies. Despite those challenges and an aging facility, the sheriff reported zero inmate assaults by staff and zero inmate suicides during his tenure, even as the jail managed a significant mental health population.

Staffing and officer safety were among the priorities addressed, he said. Of 38 allotted detention officer positions, 37 were filled. Pay adjustments were implemented, including a night-shift differential, and detention officers were issued stab vests as standard equipment. A medical emergency plan was implemented, training requirements for supervisors were increased, and mandatory training was established for all sergeants and corporals. Officers were also supported in earning intermediate and advanced professional certifications.

Ellenburg reported that a dedicated detention investigator position was created without additional county funding, strengthening internal accountability and evidence-handling procedures. The number of certified armed detention officers was increased, and specialized training was added for high-risk situations.

A central focus of the administration was preventing contraband from entering the facility, particularly fentanyl, which law enforcement officials say can be lethal in trace amounts. Ellenburg said practices allowing trustees unrestricted movement outside secure confinement were immediately ended, citing the risk of contraband being retrieved and brought back into the jail. Trustees were also removed from kitchen duties.

The detention center expanded the use of technology and layered security measures. The Tek84 full-body scanner was upgraded in September 2025 from version 2.0 to 5.0 to enhance contraband detection. Since December 2022, the scanner has been used more than 29,000 times, intercepting 72 attempts to smuggle narcotics and locating weapons and other prohibited items.

All incoming inmate mail was transitioned to electronic scanning to reduce drug smuggling. Standardized search procedures were implemented during intake and before housing, along with routine and targeted cell searches, Ellenburg said. A clear-bag policy was adopted for anyone entering the jail, and an inmate classification system was established to improve safety for both staff and inmates. Disciplinary procedures were formalized, and inmates who committed crimes while in custody were charged accordingly.

Additional security enhancements included assigning a detention K-9 trained in fentanyl detection—the first such K-9 in Rutherford County—funded through an anonymous donor and the National Police Dog Foundation.

Facility upgrades were supported by $10 million in state funding secured through partnerships with then–House Speaker Tim Moore and Sen. Tim Moffitt. Renovations included improvements to housing units, kitchen facilities, medical and trustee areas, locks and door hardware, communication systems, emergency response equipment, and upgraded contraband detection technology. Additional renovations, including intake and shower upgrades, camera systems, and fire safety improvements, were scheduled for 2026.

Beyond enforcement, the sheriff emphasized programs aimed at reducing recidivism. The detention center expanded in-person mental health services, increased access to Medicaid and insurance enrollment through community partners, and offered weekly AA and NA meetings. Faith-based programming was expanded, including inmate baptisms. Educational and workforce initiatives included GED classes through Isothermal Community College and partnerships with NCWorks and United Way to support employment upon release. New programs planned with Isothermal Community College included CPR, ServSafe, and OSHA certification courses. Recently six inmates passed CPR certification.

Since December 2022, more than 12,236 individuals have been processed through the detention center, not including daily movement to and from court. Ellenburg said the outcomes reflected diligence by detention staff and a balanced approach focused on accountability, safety, and opportunity for change.

The sheriff also cited increased transparency through the launch of a detention center social media page publishing monthly statistics on bookings, releases, mental health services, Medicaid enrollment, ICE deportations related to criminal offenses, and transportation activity. You may view the 2025 statistics here and 2026 here.

Ellenburg said the detention center’s mission extended beyond incarceration to improving safety, reducing repeat offenses, and strengthening the community, crediting detention staff and partner agencies for the progress made during his first term.