Corrections Division

Phillip C. Coats is the Chief Deputy of Corrections. Phillip is a 1994 graduate of Poplar Bluff (Missouri) High School and attended three Rivers Community College and Greys Harbor Community College.

Phil was hired as a Corrections Deputy in 2004 and was promoted to Sergeant in 2007. In 2014, Phil was promoted to Lieutenant and transferred to the minimum-security jail, aka work release. In 2019, Phillip was transferred back to the main jail where he supervised operations. 

In 2021, Phil was appointed as Chief Deputy of Corrections under Sheriff Tom Jones, and Phillip’s appointment was continued by Sheriff Kriete. Phillip’s responsibilities include overseeing the jail’s operational standards in the medical, kitchen, records, and correctional duties. 

Phillip’s duties also include the development and implementation of jail policies regarding state and federal regulations and maintaining compliance. Phillip is working closely with the county’s Central Services Director and Architect on the overall design and construction of the new jail which is scheduled to break ground in 2023. 

Phillip also serves as the conduit between the County and two separate bargaining units to maintain a great working relationship and promote unity.  Phillip has also served as the accreditation manager. 

Phil’s goals include being present and available, being in service to others, and is committed to success. 

Once fully staffed, the Corrections Division will consist of a total of 62 employees. If you are interested in starting a great and rewarding career in Corrections, please reach out to us at [email protected].