Laramie County Sheriff Decides Against Jail TV Show Segment

Laramie County Sheriff Brian Kozak has decided against allowing a TV show segment to be filmed at the jail.

That's according to a news release from the sheriff's office.

According to the release, the TV show "120 Hours Behind Bars" was interested in highlighting several new programs at the Laramie County Jail.

But Sheriff Kozak says after thinking it over, he's decided that inmates may have appearances on the show come back to haunt them when they get out.

Sheriff Says It Might Haunt Inmates Later In Life

“It turns out the success of these programs is the reason I decided to change my mind and table the idea for now,” Sheriff Kozak said. “Participants may sign waivers allowing themselves to be filmed, but it’s a decision I worry they might later regret. It’s always our hope that the people incarcerated in our detention center will better their lives and put their troubles behind them. These films are likely to always be out there and a reminder of past troubles for these individuals.”

The sheriff said that while being featured on a national television show might help recruit new employees, right now the agency is fully staffed and that isn't a consideration,

According to the release, the show was interested in focusing on several programs at the jail

• Special Management Unit (Opened 2025): An award-winning unit focused on stabilizing inmates who are experiencing mental health crises, prioritizing specialized care within the facility.
• Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD): A program utilizing case managers to support individuals post-incarceration. By helping them secure essential needs like employment and housing, the program aims to break the cycle of reoffending.
24/7 Sobriety Testing Program: An initiative designed to keep participants out of jail and with their families, providing accountability and structure as they work toward long-term sobriety"