Ward County Jail Inmate Lookup
The Ward County Jail, situated in Minot, North Dakota, is a correctional facility that serves the surrounding county and its communities. It is a medium-security jail, responsible for incarcerating individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or sentencing, along with those who have already been sentenced.
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Inmate Search and Prison Roster
Locating an Inmate
The Ward County Jail maintains an online database that can be used to search for inmates. To locate an individual in the detention center, you will need certain details to initiate a successful search. This could include:
- The inmate's Booking Number: This is a unique identifier for every individual processed into the jail.
- Last Name: The surname of the inmate.
- First Name: The given name of the inmate.
- Date of Birth (DOB): The birthdate of the inmate.
The search feature is typically user-friendly, and even partial information can yield results. For instance, if you are unsure about the spelling of the inmate's name, entering the first few characters can still provide possible matches.
Information Provided on the Jail Roster
The jail roster provides comprehensive information about every individual held in the detention facility. This includes:
- Booking Number: This number is unique to the inmate and will be needed for future inquiries or to deposit money for the inmate.
- Last Name, First Name: The full name of the inmate.
- Date of Birth: The birthdate of the inmate.
- Release Date: If available, the roster will display when the inmate is due for release.
- Criminal Charges: The specific offenses for which the inmate has been charged or convicted.
It is worth noting that the roster is updated regularly, ensuring the information provided is as accurate and current as possible.
Tips for Inmate Search
To enhance your chances of a successful inmate search in the detention center, consider the following tips:
- Double-check the spelling of the inmate's name. Typos can affect your search results.
- Be aware that aliases or nicknames may not be recorded in the database. Always use the inmate's legal name.
- If you have the inmate's Booking Number, use it for your search. It is the most reliable piece of information as it is unique to every inmate.
- Ensure you are searching the correct detention facility. For inmates in Ward County Jail, ensure you're not searching in a different county or state database.
Visitation Guidelines and Hours
Procedure for Arranging a Visit
To visit an inmate at Ward County Jail, you must follow a set procedure:
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All visits must be scheduled in advance. Visit the jail's official website to schedule your visit. The scheduling page allows you to select the date and time slot based on availability.
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Fill out all necessary information, such as your full name, identification number (like driver's license number), and your relationship to the inmate.
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Upon successful scheduling, you will receive a confirmation email or message. Be sure to arrive at the jail on time for your scheduled visit.
Rules and Regulations for Visits
Visitors must adhere to certain rules when visiting inmates at the correction facility:
- All visitors must provide valid photo identification.
- Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
- Visitors are subject to search prior to entering the visitation area.
- Dress code regulations must be followed. Offensive or revealing clothing may result in a visit being denied.
- Personal belongings like bags, cell phones, and electronic devices are generally not allowed in the visitation area.
- Unruly behavior, use of profanity, or any violation of jail regulations can result in termination of the visit and suspension of future visitation rights.
Visitation Hours
The Ward County Jail has designated visitation hours, which can be found on their official website. The schedule is subject to change, so it's advisable to check the website or contact the jail directly to confirm before planning your visit.
Inmate Communications
Inmate Call System and Associated Regulations
Inmates at the Ward County Jail are permitted to make outgoing calls during specified hours. They have access to a phone system, but it's important to note the following regulations:
- Inmates cannot receive incoming calls.
- All calls are recorded and subject to monitoring.
- Any attempts to engage in illegal activities via these calls will result in disciplinary action and could potentially impact the inmate's legal situation.
The cost of calls is charged to the recipient and will require an account with the jail's phone service provider. More information about setting up an account can be found on the jail's phone services webpage.
Jail Phone Number and Guidelines for Use
The general contact number for Ward County Jail is (provide phone number here). This number can be used to get in touch with the jail for general inquiries. However, it cannot be used to contact inmates directly.
To receive calls from inmates, you will need to set up an account with the jail's approved phone service provider. Always remember that these calls are subject to monitoring and recording. Never attempt to facilitate illegal activities or contravene jail regulations during these calls, as this can lead to severe consequences for both you and the inmate.
Inmate Mail
Process of Sending Mail to an Inmate
To send mail to an inmate at the Ward County Jail, the following steps should be followed:
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All mail must be sent through the U.S. Postal Service. No courier or hand-delivered mail will be accepted.
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Only letters, postcards, and certain approved publications may be mailed. For approved publications, refer to the jail's mail services webpage.
Guidelines for Sending Mail to Inmates
For successful delivery of mail to inmates, the following guidelines must be followed:
- Ensure the inmate's full legal name and booking number are correctly written on the mail.
- All mail, except legal mail, will be opened and inspected for contraband.
- Do not send any items that are not explicitly allowed. Prohibited items include but are not limited to: money or personal checks, explicit or inappropriate materials, items with adhesive or glues, Polaroid pictures, etc.
- Mail that does not meet the facility's guidelines will be returned to sender.
Sending Money to Inmates
Approved Methods for Sending Money
To send money to an inmate in Ward County Jail, you can use the following approved methods:
- Online: Through the jail's authorized commissary service provider's website. This is the most convenient method, but it might include a processing fee.
- Money Order: Send a money order via mail. Include the inmate's full name and booking number.
- Kiosk: Some facilities have a kiosk in the jail lobby where you can deposit money. Check the jail's website for availability.
Visit the jail's commissary services webpage for detailed instructions and links to approved services.
Regulations and Limitations for Sending Money
- The sender must be on the inmate's approved visitor list.
- Inmates are typically limited to a certain amount of commissary items per week.
- Money must be sent in the form of a money order or through the approved online platform. Cash and personal checks are not accepted.
- The facility is not responsible for money orders lost in the mail.
- Any attempt to send contraband through the mail will result in disciplinary action against the inmate and potential legal action against the sender.
Inmate Commissary
The commissary at Ward County Jail is a store within the facility where inmates can purchase items that are not provided by the institution. This could include snacks, toiletries, stationery, and certain approved clothing items. The purpose of the commissary is to provide inmates with a means to purchase additional comfort items beyond the basic provisions supplied by the jail.
How Inmates Can Use the Commissary
To use the commissary, inmates need to have funds in their account. Money can be added to the account by the inmate's friends or family, through approved methods as mentioned in the previous section.
Once the funds are in the inmate's account, they can order items from the commissary. Orders are usually placed once a week, and the purchased items are delivered to the inmates.
Restrictions on Commissary Use
Commissary usage is a privilege, not a right, and as such, it comes with several restrictions:
- Inmates can only spend a certain amount of money at the commissary per week.
- Certain items may be limited in quantity or prohibited based on the inmate's behavior or security level.
- If an inmate is found to be misusing commissary items (such as using them for gambling or bartering), they can lose their commissary privileges.
Incarceration Records and Mugshots
Process of Obtaining Incarceration Records
Incarceration records can usually be obtained through a formal request to the jail or through the appropriate county's office. This may involve filling out a form and paying a small fee. More specific instructions and links to request forms can usually be found on the jail's public records request webpage.
It's important to note that certain information may be withheld if it infringes on the inmate's privacy rights or for other legal reasons.
Explanation of Mugshots and Their Availability
A mugshot is a photograph taken by law enforcement when a person is arrested. It typically includes a front-view and side-view photo. Mugshots become part of the public arrest record, along with details of the individual's charges.
In Ward County Jail, mugshots may be included in the online database along with the inmate's other information. However, the availability of these images can depend on a variety of factors including the nature of the crime, the individual's age, and privacy considerations. If a mugshot is not available online, it may still be included in the formal incarceration records obtained through a public records request.
Inmate Population
Current Population Statistics
As of this writing, the Ward County Jail houses approximately (insert current population number here) inmates. This number fluctuates due to factors such as arrests, releases, court orders, and transfers to other facilities. For the most recent data, refer to the jail's population statistics webpage.
Average Inmate Stay Duration
The average duration of an inmate's stay at the Ward County Jail varies greatly, depending on factors such as the severity of the charges, court processes, and whether the individual is serving a sentence or awaiting trial. As an approximation, an inmate's stay may range from a few days to several months.
Racial, Age, and Gender Demographics
The inmate population of Ward County Jail comprises a diverse range of individuals. The demographic breakdown by race, age, and gender may shift over time and depends on a variety of factors including local law enforcement policies, crime rates, and population demographics. To access the most recent statistical data on these demographics, visit the jail's demographics webpage.
Security Level
Ward County Jail is a medium-security detention facility. The security measures implemented include physical barriers (like fences and locked doors), electronic surveillance systems, contraband detection procedures, and strict inmate supervision.
The facility also adheres to rigorous procedures for inmate movement, visitation, and mail inspection to maintain safety and order. The jail is designed and operated to prevent escapes and to ensure the safety of inmates, staff, and visitors.
Categories of Offenders Housed
The Ward County Jail houses male and female offenders who are 18 years and older. These individuals may be serving short-term sentences, awaiting trial or sentencing, or held on behalf of other law enforcement agencies.
Role of Correctional Officers
Correctional officers in the detention center play a critical role in maintaining security. They supervise inmates, enforce rules, prevent disturbances, and ensure that inmates' rights are upheld. Officers also escort inmates within the facility, conduct searches for contraband, and help manage the provision of services like meals and medical care. The officers' vigilance and professional conduct are crucial to the safe and efficient operation of the Ward County Jail.
Location and Contact Details
Official Address
315 3rd St SE, Minot, ND 58701
Official Phone Number
(701) 857-6500
Official Website
www.co.ward.nd.us/395/Ward-County-Inmate-Locator
Frequently Asked Questions
Inmate Search
1. How do I find out where an inmate is currently held?
To locate where an inmate is currently held, you can use online inmate locator tools provided by federal, state, or county correctional facilities. For instance, the Federal Bureau of Prisons Inmate Locator allows you to find inmates in federal prisons. For state and county prisons, you can visit the respective correctional department's website.
2. Can I search for an inmate online?
Yes, you can search for an inmate online using inmate locator services provided by federal, state, and local correctional departments. You generally need the inmate's full name, date of birth, and/or their inmate ID number.
3. What kind of information is available in an inmate search?
An inmate search typically provides information including the inmate's full name, ID number, current location, anticipated release date, and sometimes the charge or conviction details.
Arrests Lookup
4. How can I look up an arrest record?
Arrest records can be looked up online through various databases such as the local county's Sheriff's Office, Clerk of Courts, or Public Records Online Directory. You typically need to know the person's full name and date of birth.
5. What information is included in an arrest lookup?
Arrest records typically include details such as the individual's name, date of birth, physical characteristics, fingerprints, photographs, details of the crime, and the location and time of the arrest.
6. Are all arrests public record?
Yes, generally, arrest records are public information. However, some information might be redacted or not released to protect sensitive information or individuals involved, such as victims of certain crimes.
Jail Bookings
7. What is jail booking and what does it involve?
Jail booking is the process that follows an arrest, where the individual is processed into the jail system. It typically involves collecting personal information, recording the alleged crime, taking fingerprints and photographs, conducting a background check, and storing personal belongings.
8. Can I find out if someone has been booked into jail recently?
Yes, booking information is often public record. You can typically find this information through the local county's Sheriff's Office or jail website.
9. How long does it take for booking information to become publicly accessible?
The timeline can vary, but generally, booking information becomes publicly accessible within a few hours to a day after the booking process is completed.
Inmate Calls
10. Can I make a call to an inmate?
Typically, you cannot directly call an inmate, but they can call you. Some facilities use a prepaid system where you can add money to an inmate's calling account.
11. What are the rules and regulations for inmate phone calls?
The rules for inmate phone calls vary by facility. Calls are often limited in duration, can only be made at certain times, and are usually monitored or recorded. Some facilities also limit the number of people an inmate can call.
12. Is there a limit on the number of calls an inmate can make?
Yes, there is usually a limit on the number of calls an inmate can make, which varies by facility. Some may allow one call per day, while others may allow several.
Inmate Mail
13. Can I send mail to an inmate?
Yes, you can usually send mail to inmates. However, all mail is typically opened and inspected for contraband before delivery.
14. What are the restrictions on sending mail to inmates?
Restrictions vary by facility but generally, mail cannot contain contraband, explicit material, or information related to criminal activity.#### 15. What happens if an inmate receives unauthorized mail?
Unauthorized mail is typically confiscated, and depending on its nature, may result in disciplinary action against the inmate or potential legal action against the sender. The inmate is usually notified about the confiscated item.
Visitation
16. What are the rules for visiting an inmate?
Visitation rules vary by facility. Typically, visitors need to be on an approved list, follow dress code rules, and abide by specific visitation hours. All visitors are generally subject to search, and the number of visitors at one time may be limited.
17. How do I schedule a visit with an inmate?
Visits are often scheduled by contacting the facility directly or through an online system provided by the facility. Some institutions require visits to be scheduled several days in advance.
18. Can children visit inmates?
Yes, children can typically visit inmates, but they must be accompanied by an adult and are subject to the same search and conduct policies. The rules can vary by institution.
Sending Money
19. How can I send money to an inmate?
You can send money to an inmate via online services, money orders, or cashier's checks, depending on the facility's policies. Services such as JPay, Western Union, and MoneyGram are commonly used.
20. Are there limits to how much money I can send an inmate?
Yes, there are usually limits on how much money you can send an inmate, and these limits vary by facility. Always check the facility's rules before sending money.
21. What are the restrictions on an inmate's use of the money sent?
Inmates can typically use the money sent to them for buying items from the commissary, making phone calls, or paying for legal services. However, restrictions vary by facility.
Posting Bond
22. What is a bond and how does it work?
A bond is a financial guarantee that a defendant will appear in court. If the defendant shows up to all court proceedings, the bond will be refunded. If not, the bond is forfeited and an arrest warrant is issued.
23. How can I post bond for an inmate?
Bonds can typically be posted at the jail or courthouse, through a bail bondsman, or even through certain online services. The process involves paying the bail amount or a percentage of it.
24. What happens if the bond is not paid?
If the bond is not paid, the defendant will likely remain in custody until the conclusion of the court proceedings.
Legal Assistance for Inmates
25. How can inmates get legal assistance while in jail?
Inmates can request legal assistance from a public defender if they can't afford a private lawyer. They also have the right to meet with their lawyer and may have access to legal resources like a law library.
26. Can inmates receive visits from their lawyers?
Yes, inmates can receive visits from their lawyers. These visits are usually confidential and not subject to the same restrictions as regular visits.
27. How can family members facilitate legal assistance for an inmate?
Family members can facilitate legal assistance by hiring a private attorney on behalf of the inmate, providing necessary legal documents, or aiding communication between the inmate and their lawyer.
Release
28. How will I know when an inmate is released?
You can typically find out an inmate's release date from the facility where they are held. Some jurisdictions also offer notification services that will alert you when an inmate is released.