SCMP Cleans 27 Miles of Roadsides in July

Columbus County inmates are making a difference on area roadways, Sheriff Bill Rogers said.

The Statewide Misdemeanant Confinement Program (SMCP) allows inmates from the county jail to clean up roadways under the supervision of detention personnel.

“This program continues to make a real difference—not only in keeping our roadways clean but also in giving participating inmates a valuable way to give back to the community,” Rogers said in a press release.

In the month of July, inmates walked 27 miles of roadsides and public areas, and picked up 404 bags of trash that were taken to the landfill. The crew uses Department of Transportation supplied bags, which are removed by DOT personnel.

“Every mile walked and every bag collected is a step toward a cleaner, safer, and more beautiful Columbus County,” Rogers said. “These efforts reflect the hard work of the inmates who volunteer for this program, and the dedication of our detention officers who oversee the operation.”
The sheriff thanked the SMCP team and detention staff who accompany them.

“This program shows what can happen when accountability meets opportunity,” he said. “Our inmates aren’t just serving time—they’re serving our county. We all benefit from their effort, and I’m proud of the work being done to keep Columbus County clean.”