Will County jail video visits resuming after storm

Video visitation equipment at the Will County jail in Joliet is being restored after a lightning strike disabled the system during the June 30 storm.

Will County Sheriff's Deputy Chief Michael O'Leary on Thursday told the county's board 800 pre-trial inmates, who have been allowed two 30-minute video chats per week, have had none in the past 10 days.

O'Leary said the inmates have been very patient, adding the video visits with family are a "positive incentive" for them.

The Naperville Sun reported the Will County Board voted about $94,000 for repairs to the analog system, which officials say may not be fully restored until August.

Jail officials say the video system was installed in 2008, and is safer, easier to control, and requires less staff than in-person visits.