The Marion County Jail was awarded the ‘Best of the Best – Medium Sized Jail Award 2025 at the Iowa State Sheriff’s and Deputy’s Association Winter School Banquet held in Des Moines. Accepting the award for the Jail was Sheriff Jason Sandholdt and Jail Staff.

In 2017, the Iowa DOC launched the “Best of the Best” award to formally recognize exceptional efforts in jail operations. The achievement underscores the diligence and professionalism demonstrated by all staff every day.

The Iowa Department of Corrections (DOC) has recognized Marion County as having one of the top-performing jails in the state. The recognition celebrates jails that demonstrate excellence in operations and management, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of both prisoners and staff.

The DOC evaluates jails across three categories based on capacity:

• Small Jails (up to 30 beds)
• Medium Jails (31–100 beds)
• Large Jails (101 beds or more)

Per Iowa Code 356, all jails in Iowa undergo an annual inspection conducted by the DOC to ensure compliance with the Iowa Administrative Code’s Jail Standards. These inspections include a comprehensive review of daily jail documentation, a facility tour, interaction with prisoners, and an operational review conducted by a DOC Inspector.