VIRGINIA BEACH, VA – After more than a decade, the Virginia Beach Correctional Center (VBCC) has reinstated its “Paint Crew,” a team of inmates who have been hard at work, transforming drab walls into a fresher, cleaner and noticeably brighter facility.
Under the watchful eye of Master Deputy II Red Nabong, these incarcerated Picassos diligently roll and brush when the jail is less active, typically from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. While inmates and staff might not have seen "The Crew" in action, their impact is impossible to miss. Say goodbye to institutional Virginia Cream with Virginia Tan trim and hello to sleek Ariat Gray paired with Dover Gray trim.
"We're always looking for innovative ways to engage our inmate population in productive activities," said Sheriff Rocky Holcomb. "And what's more productive than improving your surroundings? Plus, it saves the taxpayers a pretty penny."
Nabong is teaching his three-person team the ins and outs of working with Aquapon, a two-part epoxy paint that requires quick work once mixed. Aquapon is ideal for the jail environment because it is low-odor, stain- and scratch-resistant, and easy to clean.
In addition to enhancing the appearance of the jail, this initiative also promotes inmate rehabilitation and skill development.
The Paint Crew also provides significant savings to taxpayers. The VBCC spans over 200,000 square feet, and commercial painters charge around $25 per hour. With a project of this size expected to take at least 12 months, the City of Virginia Beach stands to save thousands of dollars. So far, the VBSO has invested just $26,000 in supplies.
Painting is part of the VBSO’s ongoing efforts to update and improve the jail. Additional improvements have included mural paintings by inmates and deputies, shower rehabilitation, installation of LED lighting and more. In addition to improving the cleanliness and security of the facility, studies show that environmental aesthetics have a profound, measurable impact on mood, cognition and wellbeing, which is important for staff and inmates alike.
Any questions or requests for additional information from the news media may be directed to Toni Guagenti, Public Information Officer: pio@vbso.net or 757-385-8446.