CLEVELAND, Ohio — For the first time since the start of the pandemic five years ago, persons held in the Cuyahoga County jail will be able to speak face-to-face with their loved ones.

The county announced Thursday that it is restoring in-person visitation in the jail, allowing inmates to be closer with their families, friends or clergy, though still separated by glass. The visits can be scheduled on weekdays from 8:30-11:30 a.m. or 1:30-4:30 p.m.

Sheriff Harold Pretel said he hopes the visits will not only help residents stay connected with their families but encourage good behavior in the jail and promote better community relationships.

“We have the capability. Why not do it and facilitate something they want,” Pretel told cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer Thursday. “It adds value to

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