$2.3 Million State Investment Re-Launches Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Transitional Work Program

Shreveport, LA – State Representative Steven Jackson joined Sheriff Henry Whitehorn Sr., local leaders, and workforce partners to officially re-launch the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Transitional Work Program following a 2.3 million dollar state investment focused on strengthening public safety, workforce readiness, and structured reentry.

Of the total investment, 1.6 million dollars was dedicated to renovating and reopening the physical facility. Additional state funding supported equipment purchases, vehicles, and modernization efforts necessary to fully restore and strengthen program operations.

The Transitional Work Program, commonly known as work release, provides structured employment and educational opportunities for eligible individuals preparing to reintegrate into the community.

“This 2.3 million dollar investment represents smart public safety,” said Rep. Steven Jackson. “We are not simply reopening a building. We are restoring a program that creates real pathways for individuals working to rebuild their lives while helping address overcrowding at the Caddo Correctional Facility. Accountability and opportunity must go hand in hand.”

The funding was secured through the State of Louisiana, with House Speaker Phillip DeVillier and Representative Jackson playing instrumental roles after touring the facility and recognizing the program’s impact on both public safety and workforce development.

Sheriff Henry Whitehorn Sr. emphasized that public safety remains the top priority. “This program holds individuals accountable while giving them structure, supervision, and real work opportunities,” he said. “When someone leaves custody with a job, skills, and a plan, our community is safer.” He added that the reopening of the facility will help responsibly manage jail capacity while reducing repeat offenses.

The program will collaborate with Southern University at Shreveport and Bossier Parish Community College to expand access to education and job training. It will also partner with regional employers including Tri-State Battery, Custom Built Cabinets, Campers RV Center, Southern Components, and others across Caddo Parish.

In addition to supporting structured reentry, the re-launch of the facility strengthens ongoing efforts to mitigate overcrowding at the Caddo Correctional Facility. Rep. Jackson is working with the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Louisiana Sheriff’s Association to advance legislation this session aimed at addressing correctional capacity challenges statewide.

“This is meaningful progress,” Jackson said. “Reducing recidivism while keeping our community safe is not an either or proposition. We can and we must do both.”