According to the Iowa Office of Ombudsman’s annual report, the Iowa Department of Corrections (DOC) has refused to update its rules to align with state law, leading to county jails illegally seizing inmate funds.
State law permits jails to recover medical costs from inmates only after a conviction and judicial approval. However, the ombudsman cited cases, including one at Wapello County Jail, where funds were unlawfully garnished before conviction. Despite recommendations for refunds, some jails resisted, citing “accounting discrepancies.”
While some jails pledged to revise procedures, the DOC declined to change its rules, instead deferring to nonprofit associations for guidance. The ombudsman argues it is the DOC’s responsibility to ensure compliance and plans to continue advocating for rule updates.
