The connection between addiction and incarceration is undeniable. Re- search shows that alcohol and drugs are implicated in an estimated 80% of offenses leading to incarceration in the United States, and alcohol dependence consistently emerges as the most prevalent substance use disorder among incarcerated popu- lations. Spectrum Health Systems is working to change that statistic; one conversation, one group session, one life at a time.

When the COVID-19 pandemic forced courthouses across the Commonwealth to temporarily close their doors, the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department was already ahead of the curve. Courts were clamoring for a solution to conduct sessions and uphold detainees’ right to a speedy trial. ---Enter Stacy Brown, Director of Virtual Court Communica- tions and Technology. Before eventually establishing her role in the telecommunications court process, Brown previously served as Assistant Director of Social Services and creator of the Family Matters program. In the Spring of 2017, Brown was tasked by Sheriff Steven W. Tompkins with implementing an innovative vision to reduce the need for transporting detainees to court and to optimize the efficiency and consistency of connecting individ- uals on trial with their legal teams and courts.

-On May 1, 2026, family, friends, Department leadership, and staff gathered at Casa Lucia in Revere, Massachusetts, to celebrate the graduation of the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department Correction Officer Training Academy (COTA) Class 26-01. The ceremony marked the successful completion of an intensive academy experience and recognized the discipline, compassion, and perseverance required to join the Department’s ranks.

Our Community Outreach team had a great time attending Excel Academy Charter School’s Youth Career Fair, where we connected with students and shared information about our annual paid Summer Enrichment Program (SEP) internship. In our program, students can explore a variety of law enforcement career paths, learn more about the criminal legal system, and participate in site visits, including a tour of our facilities, all while getting paid.