Inmates at a central Indiana jail have gotten some extra companions as part of a cat fostering program.
In February of 2016, a program that pair inmates with surrendered and rescued cats was started, it's called "Cuffs and Collars," according to a Facebook post by the sheriff's office. The program is a collaboration between the Boone County Sheriff's Office and the Humane Society for Boone County.
The sheriff's office said in their Facebook post that it was touching to see the cats become introduced to their foster fathers.
"The tough-looking, tattooed inmates seemed to immediately let their guard down as they got to hold their furry new cellmates for the first time," read the post.
Inmate Aaron McNut described the program as a "companionship" between the cats and the inmates.
"It's not only beneficial for the animal but it's also beneficial for us," McNut said, according to the Facebook post. "We're not always in contact with family. Sometimes we'd just like to have something else to occupy our time, and do the right thing too."
The program started with just four cats and four inmates but the program will likely expand. Organizers say the inmates may start bottle feeding newborn kittens in the spring.
The cats have free rein around a designated block. The hope is that the cats will become more socialized, and in turn, Boone County Sheriff Mike Nielsen homes the inmates will be released with a more well-rounded start to their lives.
“I’m excited about the program," said Nielsen. “This is going to give the inmates an opportunity to work with these animals, help improve the quality of life for the animals, and help occupy some of the inmate’s time in a responsible manner."
Nielsen said "Cuffs and Collars" is likely the first program of its kind in the state of Indiana.
