6 | HUNTSVILLE LIVING | JULY 2024
Correctional Officer
Bailey Lolley-York
6 | HUNTSVILLE LIVING | JULY 2024
Bailey Lolley-York has come a long way , since her days as Buzzy the Huntsville Hornets ’ mascot . Still serving as a community symbol , Mrs . York exchanged her wings for a star .
Since her graduation from Huntsville High School in 2015 , York has served in various capacities at the Walker County Sheriff ’ s Department and Walker County Jail . Presently a Supervisor , York worked her way up to Sergeant , and after a brief spell in administration , she returned to the floor , earning her rank as Corporal .
“ Corporal is similar to Sergeant , with oversight responsibilities over staff , inmates , and visitors .
One of the more difficult aspects of the job is related to the challenges associated with training in a multigenerational environment ,” said York .
Being at the Sheriff ’ s Department , York has been molded and mentored by our longtime head of Walker County law enforcement , Sheriff Clint McRae .
“ I love the Sheriff … that ’ s a very good man … I have nothing but respect for him ,” said York . “ He ’ s humble , that ’ s something I don ’ t think most people know about him . It ’ s an honor to work for Clint McRae ,” said York .
In describing what she does as a jailer , York outlined that the jail generally houses some 200 inmates at a time , with an inmate to jailer ratio of 48 to one .
“ I think we make a positive impact on the inmates . Our respect is mutual ,” said York .
“ I get joy out of seeing people that were once inside of here out in the free world , and they are actually doing better ,” said York .
York ’ s time at the jail helped to shape the strong woman and celebrated leader at the jail she has become . Part of her maturing was a product of the all too up-close and personal experiences .
When York was only 18 , she had to witness CPR being administered to try to save an inmate ’ s life . “ I ’ d never seen anything like that … It was a wake-up call … this is real ,” said York . “ It taught me to be careful and observant while I ’ m here .”
York takes solace in the belief that her small attempt at both upholding justice and extending mercy in being a faithful presence at the jail . “ I try to understand that this is the worst day of their lives .”