At the recommendation of the Indiana County Prison Board, the Indiana County Board of Commissioners has filled a key position in the Indiana County Jail.
Lesley Loveridge, former assistant chief of the prison’s facility services, was hired as the new district chief following the retirement of Sam Buzzinotti in August 2022. Buzzinotti served as the Indiana County Jail Superintendent for 10 years.
Commending the Prison Board for its excellent job in finding a new warden in a transparent and fair manner, Prison Board Chair and Commissioner Sherene Hess said: “I appreciate the unique skills and willingness of all Board members to work together to achieve the best possible outcome for this important public function achieved safety.”
In her new position, Loveridge will oversee all prison operations and activities, including staff recruitment and retention, enforcement of policies and procedures, budget, planning, inmate custody and control, records management and treatment programs.
In addition, Loveridge ensures the department’s compliance with all applicable codes (State Title 37), laws, rules, regulations, standards, policies and procedures and oversees any actions necessary to correct deviations or violations.
Loveridge begins her appointment following a successful inspection by the Commonwealth’s Department of Corrections Office of County Inspections and Services, which she played a significant role in preparing. Also critical to the preparations were Assistant Operations Superintendent Lori Hamilton and Captain Brett Millard, along with the sergeants, treatment staff, contract clerks, and correctional staff.
The ongoing efforts of staff to maintain audit readiness status are key to achieving full inspection compliance. Commissioner R. Michael Keith commended the prison’s leadership, noting that “as a result of this accomplishment, the Indiana County Jail is exempt from the normal yearly inspection cycle and is not due for inspection until 2024.”
Loveridge has begun implementing her “100 Day Plan” and is committed to building professionalism and skill through a team-based approach. It includes an emphasis on recruiting qualified law enforcement officials; improving the effective programming and training of inmates with a focus on preparing for a successful readmission after release from prison; expanding employee training and development; and cost control.
Loveridge brings extensive expertise in mental health care to her new position, which Commissioner Robin A. Gorman noted “will serve the county in addressing the growing number of incarcerated individuals with serious mental illnesses.”
The maximum inmate population is 256. The prison employs approximately 75 people and has additional contract staff.
