The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office is proud to partner with Cleveland State Community College to provide inmate culinary classes through a grant program from the State of Tennessee known as Evidence-Based Programming.

This initiative offers inmates the opportunity to gain valuable knowledge in safe food preparation through both classroom and hands-on training. Upon completing 42 hours of coursework, participants earn a nationally recognized “Safe Serve” certificate, giving them a skill they can use to better themselves once released.

As of October 15, 2025, three classes have successfully completed the program-two groups of six and one group of five-for a total of 17 participants.

I’m extremely proud of the effort our instructors, staff, and participants have put into making this program a success. The initiative is not only beneficial to those taking part in the program, but also for our community as a whole. It helps individuals learn accountability, teamwork, and self-sufficiency, while preparing them for future employment. Programs like this strengthen the reentry process, reduce recidivism, and reflect our continued commitment to rehabilitation and public safety.

Special thanks to Brandi Huggins-Program Manager, Darby Freichs-Transition Coordinator,

Kezmond Pugh-Instructor, and Karl Buchberger-Grant Program Coordinator for their hard work, dedication, and continued success in supporting this program.