Case Study: Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office

Challenge: Rising Tension and Limited Communication Access

Residents in OPSO custody faced mounting frustration from limited access to phones and video visitation. Many of the hardwired phones and monitors in jail pods were broken, contributing to increased tension and a staggering 977 incidents reported between January 1 and February 10 alone. This lack of communication access and idle time led to heightened conflict and behavioral challenges.

“A major factor leading to violence in jail is having access to phone calls. Some in our custody have expressed to me that barriers to communicating with their loved ones is a major source of frustration.”

— Sheriff Susan Hutson

To address this issue, OPSO implemented a new SmartTablets™ initiative in partnership with Smart Communications, a no-cost program as part of its communications contract. Each incarcerated individual is issued a tablet upon booking, which remains with them during their stay.

These secure tablets provide:

• Daily free calls and weekly video sessions support family connections

• Education, training, and reentry tools promote positive behavior

• Access to approved entertainment content

• Tools for positive behavioral incentives

• Modernization drives restorative justice and safer facility dynamics

Solution: SmartTablets™ Empower Connection, Learning, & Self-Improvement

Beyond Tablets: A Broader Commitment to Modernization

OPSO’s commitment to innovation extended well beyond tablet deployment. The agency embraced a comprehensive rollout of Smart Communications’ full suite of solutions, integrating advanced digital tools, communication systems, and rehabilitative programming across its operations.

These transformative upgrades aligned seamlessly with OPSO’s ongoing mission to enhance safety, drive operational efficiency, and provide meaningful opportunities for personal growth and rehabilitation within the facility.

The impact of Smart's program was both immediate and significant.

In the first 30 days following the launch (February 11 – March 31), the number of reported incidents inside the Orleans Justice Center dropped to 440, compared to 977 in the previous 30-day period.

This marks a 55% reduction in incidents, reflecting a powerful shift in daily behavior, reduced tension, and improved overall facility dynamics.

Sheriff Hutson and jail leadership are hailing the program as a success.

Results: 55% reduction in jail incidents within 30 days

“We are a jail that focuses on restorative justice. Instead of residents sitting idle while they await court, we’re providing tools that help them better themselves as returning citizens.”

★★★★★

— Sheriff Susan Hutson

About us

Smart Communications is redefining corrections like OPSO-delivering innovation that streamlines communication, enhances security, and creates real rehabilitative opportunities. With secure SmartTablets™, inmates gain instant access to family, education, and digital services, all managed through advanced technology that keeps the facility safe and efficient.

The result: a modernized jail environment where positive behavior is incentivized, incidents are dramatically reduced, and every connection supports safer, smarter outcomes for everyone.